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Idaho State University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See Idaho State University reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending Idaho State University. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free Idaho State University reviews, or contribute your own Idaho State University review if you're a current student there.

  • 14 out of 14 people found this review useful.

    Sarah from Eagle, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am a second year at ISU and am a junior. Each semester in college is different but the first few seem to be pretty similar all across the board. I started college in August of 2008. ISU is a great school, the teachers care and there is always something going on for the new and current students. To start, go to orientation. I met people there that I am still in contact with. Get involved; the first year of college is important to establish yourself and experience. My advice is to apply for the Honors program. There are a lot of benefits to being in the Honors program: automatic $500 housing scholarship, living in the newer and nicer dorms, smaller class sizes, etc. And to be honest, the classes aren’t harder.

    The classes I am taking challenge me but I do not find them impossible to get an A in if I put in the time that each class needs. The experts suggest that for every credit in a class you should study three times as many hours in a week. So if a class is three credits, study about nine hours a week... but that hardly ever happens. Just give each class enough time to get everything done, and done well. That is what I have done and I am a straight A student.

    Am enjoying being here

    Get involved; the first year of college is important to establish yourself and experience. ISU has a lot to offer. Sure, the town isn’t huge but there are plenty of things to do on campus including inexpensive movies (free with Bengal ID), bowling, arcade games, clubs, and other random activities. The first day of class is usually always the same with a million handouts and syllabi (plural of syllabus) and getting out early. Throughout the first semester the new student really needs to learn time management because seriously, there is ALWAYS something going on. ISU is a great place to learn and to start building the future. Pocatello isn’t a bad place to live and is close to many larger cities for those students that need that lifestyle, but for many it is the place to be.

    Bang for the buck

    Another thing I love about ISU is that it is inexpensive in general, but there is no loss in education. An Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree from ISU is the same, if not better than other schools. Tuition costs about $2284 and then there is housing and textbooks and such, but don't forget that there are scholarships and financial aid (which is great! go to fafsa.ed.gov). ISU is the best school to go to if you want an affordable, great education.

    Tips for prospective students

    Honors Program
    Time Management
    Go to class (it is easier to pass a class if you go and don't pay attention than if you just skip altogether)
    Get Involved
    Relax! It's college!

    Great for these types of students

    Outdoorsy: there are many opportunities to get out and see the wonderful Idaho Wilderness with backpacking trips, white water rafting, horseback riding, skiing, etc.
    Medical: ISU is THE medical school of Idaho. If you are interested in health care, this is where you want to be.
    Want to Learn: Everything is geared for student success. The professors care, the tutors care, there are centers for help... if you try, there is now way that you can fail at your standards.

  • 7 out of 7 people found this review useful.

    Cortney from Shelley, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The faculty and staff will work with you through any situation that you have. There's a learning center to help students who might not have the studying skills for college that can really help. My first semester was very hard because I got in a car accident and was injured, but all of my professors helped me tremendously! I even got a 2.93 GPA though I was visiting physical therapy 3 times a week, going full time to school and didn't have my own car.

    Am enjoying being here

    The student population isn't hugely diverse, but there are some very amazing and interesting students. I met some very neat people from India, China, Sri Lanka, and the Czech Republic. I've never met such interesting people!

    Bang for the buck

    Though my first year FAFSA (without loans) didn't leave me much for books and school supplies, I still did very well. The prices are great for in-state students, and all of the student events are free for students. So just about every week, I was getting free lunches, getting to see free local bands and even a really great magician! All free for students!

    Tips for prospective students

    -Talk to your professors if you have a problem, they really want you to succeed.
    -If you need help, go to the Center for Learning, they'll help you with anything you need.
    -Stay involved! Almost every week, an event is going on at the Idaho Falls Campus. Meet some new friends and enjoy school a little more.
    -Be prepared. Every class I've had has given me a schedule for when assignments are due. Look at them often, to make sure you get things in on time!
    -Talk to your academic advisers, they'll keep you on track!
    -Go in with a great attitude. You can do this, and not everyone in the world has this fantastic opportunity!

    Great for these types of students

    Any and all! :)

  • 7 out of 7 people found this review useful.

    Amanda from Idaho Falls, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I love the class size for ISU. Students to professors ratio is 17:1, what could be better? There are a variety of classes as well to choose from, Physical Education Activity such as bowling or even fly fishing to add some spice to your general education class.es

    Am enjoying being here

    I love it here! I am still close to home, but still far enough to live on my own and be independent. Smaller school that you can still hang out with your friends, but meet a new face too. Idaho is full of outdoor adventures; mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, and even skiing on a near by mini resort, Pebble Creek. Its that small town feel that is so comforting to be apart of. ISU has over 160 clubs ranging from Greek life to anything such as dance club, if we don't have it you can start your own! ISU has some top programs as well, it is the number one school in Idaho for Health related professions, we have a wonderful Pharmacy Program and an Accounting program, only to mention a few.

    Bang for the buck

    ISU isn't a very expensive school to attend, Compared to other schools it it reasonable.

    Tips for prospective students

    Enjoy your first year of college, get involved in something, meet new people and get your professors to know your name.

    Great for these types of students

    Call and schedule a campus tour, meet with one of our recruiters and advisors for your major. Have any questions, email ambassadors at info@isu.edu. Cant wait to hear from you (:

  • 6 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Tiffany from Renton, WA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    This semester I am taking Biology 101, Statistics 153, ASL 151, Psychology 101 and Deaf Studies 101. The thing I love about Idaho State University is the fact that I'm not just a number. In some universities there are so many people in the class that rather than being an actual person you are just a number. At my university however, the teacher to student ratio is about 1-25. In one of my classes (ASL 151) there are only 12 students which means I can have time to learn in class as well as outside of class.
    Another thing that helps my learning is the fact that most teachers have graduate students that help out with the teaching. So, if you're having trouble you can either go see the teacher or his assistant.
    Lastly, tutoring is free! All you have to do is sign up and you can go in and get help. This increases your chances of survival in a class by a lot. Getting knowledge from a person who already passed the class pushes your learning ability to a higher level.

    Am enjoying being here

    Literally everyday I look to the sky and think, it's so beautiful here. I am originally from Washington so Idaho weather is so different. It's already October and it has only rained a maximum of 3 days in the 2 months I've been here. The temperatures have been in the 80's and the weather is just wonderful.
    The people here seem so happy to be here, which in turn makes me happy too. Pocatello is the smile capital of the world and the people here prove that.
    Lastly, the campus is beautiful. Except for the many squirrels wandering the campus, I love it, my roommate says the squirrels are cute but I feel that they are a tad bit scary. Other than that the beauty of the campus is shown through the many trees and mountains (which the people of Idaho call hills).

    Bang for the buck

    Sadly, because I'm from Washington I pay higher rates, which makes Idaho not as appealing. Also, I'm told from fellow classmates that Idaho is expensive even for people from Idaho. Other than the tuition and fees I thoroughly enjoy this university and would recommend it to anyone who asked!

    Tips for prospective students

    Apply for scholarships early!
    Don't always eat at the cafeteria, Turner Hall is all-you-can-eat, so if you're always eating there, you're gonna gain wait.
    Have fun!
    Get involved!

    Great for these types of students

    Outgoing students, students that don't need to much excitement to keep them happy. Pocatello is a small town and there isn't always a lot to do in here but I enjoy being able to focus all my attention on school and not have too many distractions. So, students who don't want distractions, come to Idaho State University at Pocatello!

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Kimberly from Idaho Falls, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The teachers at ISU are always trying to find ways to help their students succeed and they do what they can to help you learn what you would like to learn. They take your feedback and use it to improve the class. There are also many programs available to help you learn and succeed.

    Am enjoying being here

    ISU has a very relaxed environment and very friendly people. The teachers treat you like an equal and help you to succeed.

    Bang for the buck

    They offer many programs that are covered by your tuition that you can use to help you succeed and there are many activities that you can participate in that are also covered by your tuition.

    Tips for prospective students

    Go to class
    Take notes
    Do your work
    Keep a schedule

    Great for these types of students

    I started at ISU right out of high school and tips that I would give to incoming students is to keep a set schedule and don't fall behind. Also don't be afraid to talk to your teachers and ask for help, they really do want to help you.

  • 7 out of 10 people found this review useful. 1 person found this inaccurate.

    Lauren from Boise, ID

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Did learn a lot

    I took basic courses to fulfill my general requirements (called goals at Idaho State). While several of these courses were pretty basic and required minimal work to achieve an acceptable grade, the rest were vigorous and required you to actually learn the material, versus writing it down and taking an online, open book test. I felt like the academic atmosphere was average, but I guess that's what you get for a low-tuition school.

    Did enjoy being here

    I like small towns, so the size of Pocatello was not an issue for me. It has your basic stores, and the mall isn't as bad as people make it out to be. As for the Idaho State campus, if you make an effort to get out and be involved, there is plenty going on! The Student Activities Board is very active, and their activities aren't lame. It's a great way to meet other students. Living on campus definitely helps you meet people!

    Bang for the buck

    You definitely get what you pay for. The academics aren't bad, and they have several very good programs (Pharmacy and Music being two of the best in Idaho) I was very disappointed in room and board, though. Unless you live in Rendezvous (which is the Beverly Hills of ISU), then you're seriously wasting your money on housing. Turner and Redfield are the Compton of ISU, and were awful. The RA's were very nice though. And as for the meals....well, Turner cafeteria is definitely not five star. It was difficult being a vegetarian and eating there, because there are no veggie options besides salad. Also, they add butter to EVERYTHING! You will gain the freshman 15 if you don't use the gym regularly.

    Tips for prospective students

    If you can, pack in seasons. You'll start off school in 90 degree heat, but by Thanksgiving break, temperatures will be freezing. Invest in a good pair of boots and a warm snow jacket! Also, a car is pretty much necessary for getting around Pocatello, unless you plan on never leaving campus (or making lots of friends with cars).

    Great for these types of students

    - Outdoorsy
    - Music majors
    - Pharmacy majors
    - People who like small town atmospheres

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Anonymous

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The classes I have taken so far have been informative and interesting. Not too easy but not so challenging that I have lost interest in them.

    Am enjoying being here

    I am a first semester freshman and am taking on a lot of courses, but I have enjoyed my time here so far. The campus is beautiful, the professors are helpful and friendly, and everything in the city is within walking distance.

    Bang for the buck

    I think class-wise I'm getting a lot for my money. The professors are excellent and enthusiastic about what they are teaching, the classes are informative and relevant to my ultimate goal, and the textbook selection is good for the classes as well.

    Tips for prospective students

    This may not be the place for everyone. It's a good school for a basis in the sciences, since they are trying to open a medical school here so there's a lot of science-based classes available in the biological and chemical sciences. It's also kind of out in the middle of nowhere, so if you're looking for a booming nightlife this is probably not the place to go.

    Great for these types of students

    For students majoring in the sciences this is an excellent university. There is a good history department as well. A bonus for people who might be interested in paleontology or anthropology is the Natural History Museum that is on campus.

  • 3 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Shelbie from Soda Springs, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The teachers here are always willing to help.

    Am enjoying being here

    There are lots of activities and clubs to keep anyone busy and having a good time.

    Tips for prospective students

    Take it easy your first year and know your limits.

    Great for these types of students

    Great gym and rock climbing wall. It is a lot of fun.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Anonymous

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    ISU has a great medical program! And it has lots of help stations to help you succeed.

    Will enjoy being here

    They have tons of activities, outdoors and in. It's a great environment.

    Bang for the buck

    It's a lot cheaper than other schools but is one of the top medical schools in the nation.

    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be afraid to ask questions. Everyone wants to help, it's great!

    Great for these types of students

    Students who like to get involved in activities, outdoors, or just want to learn.

  • 2 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    JaNeil from Pocatello, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Im a math major so i was told they have really good teachers here. i have learned so much in my first year and the professors are here to teach and do care if u pass their class because they need a job to dont overload yourself the first year u need time to enjoy the social part of college

    Am enjoying being here

    There are so many different activities to do on campus and i loved going to the football games( even if they are no boise state) they are still a ncaa team. the sab has really great stuff to do like donkey basketball music concerts there is so much to do just dont be afraid to get involved

    Bang for the buck

    I feel like the pricing pretty good with pricing. living on campus is expensive but its worth it because all your classes are right there and u dont have to get to school early to find a parking spot.

    Tips for prospective students

    be proud of where u go to school. make the most of your first year. go to the games, sign up for inter murals and dont be afraid to ask questions upperclassmen and other professors are not scary

    Great for these types of students

    i came from a small town. i love it here pocatello is not a very exciting town but it can be u just gotta get out there and put in some effort :) i have met so many people i know will be long life friends

  • 0 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Adena from Fox River Grove, IL

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will enjoy being here

    This place looks fantastic! I can't wait to apply. I'm really psyched that it is so pretty.

  • 8 out of 19 people found this review useful.

    Zack from Gooding, ID

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    It has all the choices I want to make but even though I still havent decided I will have enough time to do so.

    Will enjoy being here

    Amazing scenery and surroundings.

    Bang for the buck

    A good deal to make.

  • 1 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Brad from Bedrock, CO

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    This school looks like it has a wide variety of classes to choose from

    Will enjoy being here

    I enjoy being around new people so this will be a good experience

    Bang for the buck

    money is not an issue when it comes to education

    Tips for prospective students

    i recommend at least looking at it

    Great for these types of students

    any

  • Zayne from Mackay, ID

    Reviewer is Researching this school. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    it is one of the top medical schools and it has bengal pride and power. it has a tech program plus just about any other school that you can be interested in. it is a medium sized school with good solid surroundings.

    Tips for prospective students

    take a tour and you will have a 90% chance of being sold.

    Academic Rigor

    ?

    Dorm Life

    not bad some like it some don't.

    Food and Dining

    great food and there are lots of little cheap restaurants around too.

    What to do for fun

    skiing, bowling, snowmobiling, and lots more because it is idaho!

  • Morgan from Logan, UT

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    idaho state university is a good school, with high standards in academics. the professors at this university will help in any way possible to get you the best grade and the knowledge of the subject along with it. i would recommend this school to anyone with the desire to learn.

    Tips for prospective students

    my tips for prospective students would be to be prepared from the beginning. i came into my first couple semesters with no idea how to study, but if i would have remained focused i could have improved my grades drastically.

    Academic Rigor

    i think the academic rigor definitely depends on what program you are in here at idaho state university but the accounting program is difficult, but rewarding.

    Dorm Life

    you are provided with the opportunity to attend activities constantly but are also given the appropriate atmosphere to study when needed. i met friends in the dorms that will last a lifetime.

    Food and Dining

    it took me a few weeks to find the hidden restaurants that were so good here in pocatello, but once i did i have a hard time not eating out at least once a week.

    What to do for fun

    there are so many outdoor activities, including biking, mountain climbing, rock climbing, beautiful hikes, etc. it is one of the best places to be for outdoor activities.

    Bang for the buck

    i find everything to be really cheap. i mean, we are talking idaho here. in comparison to other university towns, things are cheap.

    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    there is the traditional true bengal that is done at the pillars on red hill in pocatello. this is a favorite of many students, taking a night hike up a trail with that special someone.

    Great for these types of students

    this university is great for people that want a good studios atmosphere as well as plenty of fun things to do. we have one of the best programs in physical therapy as well as pharmacy.

    Campus Safety

    there is public safety, which is our version of the police, everywhere. i feel safe walking on campus at any time of the day.

  • Jose from Ammon, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    ITS A VERY GOOD SCHOOL THAT TEACHES YOU EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR THE FUTURE TO HELP YOU ON YOUR CAREER. I RECOMMEND THIS SCHOOL.

    Tips for prospective students

    TO ALWAYS BE IN CLASS NEVER GIVING UP ON WORK OR SCHOOL. BECAUSE IF WE WANT TO HAVE A BETTER FUTURE WE NEED TO GIVE OUR BEST TO OUR SELF AND FOR THE PEOPLE THAT SURROUND US.

    Academic Rigor

    to never give up on homework even though if it is sometimes hard to do it there's always help to get it done.

    Dorm Life

    it is sometimes to get to live in a dorm because your so use to your house and family but there a point that life comes and need to live it alone.

    Food and Dining

    food is always important to live and have a dinning table where to eat with the family and have a peaceful place.

    What to do for fun

    go out with the friends to eat or to places outdoor to get out your energy you have and interact with different people playing sports.

  • Diana from American Falls, ID

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    yes i have trouble but i actually learn a lot

    Am enjoying being here

    everyone gets along and if we don't know each other sooner or later we will. i made lots of friends in my first semester

    Tips for prospective students

    Don't procrastinate and do study when your are suppose to it helps

    Great for these types of students

    it has a great nursing program i heard it was the best in Idaho.

  • Mark from Jerome, ID

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has not been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments