Youngstown State University

Only went for a year and I can honestly say it was worth it, but GET OUT NOW. Half the programs at this school are awful (*cough* ART *cough* *cough*) and even the good ones have plenty of bad professors. Regardless, a degree from YSU really isn’t going to carry much weight with the reputation it has. Biggest plus is the price which is why I absolutely recommend the first year for GenEds but no more. Find another school that only requires freshman year in the dorms that way you can move into an apartment right away. As far as it being «like a community college» I fully disagree. It may be a little lacking but it’s still a fully fledged state university and the opportunity is there. If you simply cannot leave it’s a still viable option unlike community colleges.

After struggling through their not so clear website, I made the mistake of calling their international admission cell. I was treated so bad by the person on phone, who insisted that everything is available on the website and I am an idiot to call this number. The rudest person I have ever talked to.
Apparently, you’re expected to just browse the website and then just pay them thousands of dollars even if you have some doubts or questions because calling a number (thats listed on the website to call in case of any questions) to inquire about them is just the dumbest thing one can do.
I thought these people are suppose to guide you and provide some counseling… how stupid of me.

I can honestly say that I had a great experience during my years at Youngstown State University. I made some great connections with both students and staff alike, and feel I was adequately trained for the «real world» work environment.
Some of the very few downsides were that due to it being a commuter based university, a stable college culture seemed to be lacking. Also, due again to it being primarily commuter based, parking at times was a complete nightmare.
Besides these minor inconveniences, I thought the actual education was very well executed. Some highlights were the philosophy and religious studies courses, which IMO gave a world class course with VERY competitive prices compared to other state universities.

School makes course requirements confusing so it takes you longer to graduate. Not much of a difference between YSU and a community college, The only thing that separates it is the on campus housing. Most students are commuters probably around 70% so there is not much to do as far as student activities. The only positive is the price but you might end up spending more because they really make it so you need to be here 5 years or more for a BA.

Already have BS in Criminal Justice and Sociology. Going back for Computer Information Technology. Convenient drive from most places in Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana Counties, as well as western PA.
Only negative thing I have to say is when the weather is bad in the winter, I mean REALLY bad, they RARELY cancel class… even when all the local school districts are closed, you’ll have to make your way through the snow/​rain/​ice/​blizzard to school.
Also, the parking situation isn’t that great, but I suspect it’s like that at most commuter colleges.
Letter grade: B