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Pennsylvania State U.-Penn State Harrisburg Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

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

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Nailah from Upper Marlboro, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    My classes are varied. And I learn everyday.
    I love EVERYTHING about my college!! I felt like I was suppose to come here.
    Am enjoying being here

    I met so many people during first week of school. At Penn State Harrisburg we even had Welcome Week for us freshman, catered exclusively to us! All the activities were fun, free, and real icebreakers!!
    Bang for the buck

    Penn State education, what more can I say. (Well it , its reputation, prestige, and rigor are nothing to mess with !)
    Tips for prospective students

    - Try to be active in as many clubs, and activities as you can! Fun during your first year is a must!
    - Think about renting (off-campus). Dorms (on - campus). Off campus is way cheaper ,yearly! But meal plans are usually for the on campus students.
    - If you do drugs, don't come! This is a dry campus (no alcohol)!

    Great for these types of students

    -Artistic
    -Athletic
    -Unconventional sorts
    -Hippies
    -Hard-working
    -Honor Roll students
    - Rural
    - Urban

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Christopher from Mechanicsburg, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The course curricula here are challenging and fast. Students are expected to work hard and read much of the material on their own. The teachers are usually extremely knowledgeable, with either doctorate degrees or years of in the field experience. One of the best attributes of this school is the high proportion of graduate students. The reason for this is that Penn State Harrisburg was originally a graduate school. With seasoned academics all over campus, help is always available when needed.
    Am enjoying being here

    The school is merely a dwarf in terms of student population of its cousin up in State College, PA. Therefore, students will not be crowded out of extracurricular activities. This was one of the main points that brought me to this campus. I assume that at very few public schools, that in the first three weeks I would be able to establish myself as the lead political writer for the school newspaper and the anchor for my own radio show.

    The only thing that I dislike about the school is that many of the teachers seem elitist. This was never the case at my previous school before I transferred. It seems like many teachers judge their students are lazy, unintelligent, degenerates even before meeting them. This leads to a prevailing disrespect to the students. To overcome this, make it a point to introduce yourself to and create a friendship with every teacher.
    Bang for the buck

    The school has an excellent value, and offers merit and need-based scholarships for students leaving High School and transferring from another college. Surprisingly enough, the merit based scholarships are not very difficult to attain. I believe that the grade needed is not much higher than a 3.25 to receive one. There are also plenty of added benefits, like a full gymnasium, weight room, plenty of intramural activities, as well as some kind of special event, like a bonfire, almost every week.
    Tips for prospective students

    If not living on campus, buy a comfortable car, since the drive is fairly long each day. The school is located in Middletown, PA, which is roughly thirty minutes from the city of Harrisburg.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who wish to live off campus

    Inquisitive students who wish to pick the brains of the many academics on campus

  • 5 out of 8 people found this review useful.

    Shanda from Philadelphia, PA

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

    Categories Rating Comments

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Sophia from Harrisburg, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Penn State Harrisburg offers quite a diverse array of subjects -- especially in the Mathematical/Scientific fields ('Astronomical Universe,' 'Mammalian Anatomy,' and 'Intro to Programming Techniques' are a few examples). However, PSH is unfortunately lacking when it comes to the Fine Arts -- only a minimal amount of applied art classes are offered, and they're mostly Beginner's Courses (as PSH doesn't offer a BFA). Overall, though, I thoroughly enjoy my classes -- plus Penn State Harrisburg offers an efficient way to get rid of GenEds if you plan on heading up to UPark/a more specialized college after a year or two!
    Am enjoying being here

    I'm pleasantly surprised just how much I've enjoyed my first semester here. While this isn't a big party campus like UPark is, there are enough events offered throughout the week to make it interesting (Zumba classes and trips to Broadway, anyone?) for students. And concerning the surrounding area, while Middletown is obviously not a metropolitan city like New York or Philly, it does have a certain 'small-town charm'. I often feel like I'm transported back into the 1950s walking by the Elks Theater (one of the first movie theaters in the nation), diners, countless antique shops, and the centrally-located Brownstone Cafe. And if Middletown is too boring for you, downtown Harrisburg is only about 20-30 minutes away (and you can always buy a $5 Megabus ticket to State College for the weekend). Plus, there's an Amtrak station right in downtown Middletown!
    Bang for the buck

    I find the tuition at PSH pretty reasonable, but then again I also qualify as an in-state student. Room & board definitely adds a lot to tuition costs, too (though I can't complain, as my on-campus housing is quite nice, as far as on-campus housing goes). A monetary factor a fair amount of students are unhappy with, however, is that meal plans are a requirement for first-year students, which soaks up another $300-500. Lastly, textbooks also add on to tuition fees (the cost for my first-semester textbooks averaged at around $550) so take advantage of sites like Chegg, Half.com, etc. However, one must also keep in mind that Penn State is a nationally-acclaimed school, so the tuition is well worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    - If you plan on living on-campus but aren't comfortable sharing a room with another person, request a single room as soon as possible (the 3000, 4000, 5000, and 6000 bldgs. are all single room apartments) as they go pretty quickly!
    - DON'T expect it to be 'party hardy' like UPark. But don't assume that because it isn't a renowned party campus there's nothing going on. Ask around -- word travels.
    - Try to participate in class as much as possible -- my in-class participation made up 15% of my grade for one of my courses. Additionally, the more you get used to speaking in public settings, the better. Trust me.
    - Sign up for activities! Meeting new people will gradually help you get settled in.
    Great for these types of students

    - Students who want to get warmed up to college life first before continuing on to a bigger university (ex.: the 2+2 program).
    - Students who hope to major in the Technological/Mathematical/Scientific fields.

  • 1 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Nathan from Camp Hill, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Chelsey from Pittsburgh, PA

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    On a scale of one to ten, this campus earns a nine because all areas of the campus are constantly progressing in ways to improve the college experience for students. The professors, librarians, class rooms, greek life, organizations, community center events, the CUB, campus housing, campus cafe, athletics and community are continuously advancing to complete the whole college experience. The community is great for students who need the scenery of a college and not a fast city.
    Academic Rigor

    Majority of the professors always make themselves available for students through office hours, email and over the phone. Also, librarians are very helpful when searching the Penn State databases and looking for books. For all my core courses, the curriculum has remained with me and has actually been useful.
    Dorm Life

    The dorm life is definitely an exciting experience and has its pros and cons. The pros: meeting new people from different cultures, roommates can become lifetime friends, usually always something to do in the apartment, easy to get to classes, the RA's are available 24/7, 4-bedroom apartments everyone has their own room, every dorm has washers/dryers, community center has convenient hours for vacuums etc. and maintenance are helpful. The cons: the walls can be thicker for those who like to go to sleep earlier.
    Food and Dining

    The cafe has good food eighty percent of the time, the hours fit many students needs, chefs try different culture foods every week and the faculty takes advice on what to improve.
    What to do for fun

    It's easy to have fun if you get involved with organizations, greek life, intramural sports, attend sessions for different causes, particpate in activities on campus and be open to meeting new people that are different from yourself.
    Bang for the buck

    It's perfect for those who plan to spend their first two years at this campus then attend University Park for their last two years because it helps a student transition into college smoothly with it being in a good environment, not too many distractions versus a bigger campus, smaller classes, smaller campus, professors knew who I was, a smaller population to develop relationships easier with everyone and helps a student define their self.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    The CUB at the Harrisburg campus is similar to the HUB at University park and holds a lot of events there for exercise, athletic games and parties.
    Greek Life

    Kappas is the first fraternity to be at that campus. In the Fall of 2011, the Sigmas created a chapter there and has already stirred up some good campus events. Then, in the Spring of 2012 the Zetas started a chapter and has really brought some delight to the campus.
    Campus Safety

    The safety is great! Campus police are there daily and also ride aroung campus at night to make sure students are secure. The campus police even regulate who comes into the parties to ensure students are not in danger.

  • John from Philadelphia, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Penn State Harrisburg is an excellent and growing university. The curriculum is high and the classes are challenging. Since I was a freshman, this school has increased in every element and continues to do so.
    Tips for prospective students

    For new students, make sure you enjoy yourself. This school is just as hard as University Park but don't be intimidated. If you get your work done, there is plenty to do here.
    Academic Rigor

    Like I said, this school is no joke. It will challenge you in many areas. You will also enjoy yourself in others!
    Dorm Life

    The dorm population is small but the faculty is very thorough in keeping the area clean and livable. There are events every week, comedie shows, game night and much more.
    Food and Dining

    The school cafeteria has a variety of foods to eat, some better than others. Overall the food isnt bad.
    What to do for fun

    Trips and events occur every week. They range from ice cream parties to Six Flags! If you look around, you will find tons to do.
    Bang for the buck

    If you check, you will get what you pay for.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    I'll let you find that out for yourself
    Great for these types of students

    Great for a multitude of students. This university was built for diversity. So everyone is welcome!
    Clubs and Activities

    I can't name all of them there must be at least 45 clubs on this campus alone. Some are more active than others.
    Greek Life

    Small but growing. Three greeks were established last year!
    Campus Safety

    I could almost say too safe. The police stay on top of things here.

  • Kaitlin from Palmyra, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg is an excellent school. It has provided me so far with a great education. They have also helped me become even closer to my goal of becoming a registered nurse.
    Tips for prospective students

    Prospective students should go to all meetings for undergraduate or even graduate students. They should also take time to study and keep organized. Always meet with an academic adviser at least once per semester.
    Food and Dining

    Stacks Market and the bakery on campus have really great food. They have a lot of really healthy foods as well.
    What to do for fun

    There are many co-curricular activities for students to go to. Some of them include multicultural events, educational workshops, internship and job fairs, and many more. Other events include activities going on in the town and music events and plays through the school.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are many clubs and Activities, just about any you can think of. If there isn't a club that you would like to see you can meet with people from the school to try and create the club of your liking.
    Campus Safety

    There are police on campus that are available at all times and can help with any issues regarding safety. There are also campus call boxes where a student can call for help in case of an emergency.

  • Jessica from Enola, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    first, penn state harrisburg provides a safe community for their students. second, they provide non-traditional students with a realistic opportunity at achieving a penn state university degree. lastly, their faculty takes a genuine interest in students seeking their help.
    Tips for prospective students

    don't expect the same big university experience that is available at the main campus. enjoy pshbg for what it is, a smaller penn state campus that is able to provide more individualized attention to its students. also, be sure to take advantage of the free trips that the different clubs offer, inculding nyc, philly, and virginia.
    What to do for fun

    the clubs on campus provide plenty of free trips to nyc and other places. also, there are plenty of clubs and sports on campus to participate in. there are not many off campus activities within the town of middletown; however you are close to the airport and soon a train station, just hop on one and go someplace more fun.
    Bang for the buck

    it is a penn state university so it is still expensive for a state school.
    Great for these types of students

    great for non-traditional students.
    Greek Life

    a few sororities and fraternities on campus. personally i am a member of kappa delta pi, a very active educational honors society.
    Campus Safety

    it is a very safe campus. being a female, non-traditional, honors student i spend many late nights in the library, and i have not felt uncomfortable walking to my car alone.

  • Kehinde from Middletown, PA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    it is better to get around if you have a car. there is not much fun things to do outside of school. everyone is pretty nice (including the professors)
    Tips for prospective students

    make sure you have a car. be prepared for bad weather (rain, snow) get involved and join clubs.
    Academic Rigor

    its challenging, depending on the course and professor but its not unmanageable or too hard.
    Dorm Life

    i dont have a dorm, off campus apartments are cheaper.
    Food and Dining

    i dont really eat at the cafeteria a.k.a stacks but everyone including professors hate the food. they think its unhealthy, some students still go out an buy groceries despite their meal plan. they do it because they are just that bored/unsatisfied with the cafeteria food.
    What to do for fun

    school clubs and organizations. there are parties on campus too. and fun events are held at school but none are that interesting. most people are bored out of their mind.
    Bang for the buck

    the professors and school advisors encourages you to use all the resources possible that are available to you. its just your job to know what is out there and take advantage of it.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    the first week of freshman year (fall semester) there are a bunch of fun events that freshman can participate in.
    Great for these types of students

    those who are used to the sub-rural type of locations, have a car, dont mind studying, enjoying being apart of clubs, and are football fans.
    Clubs and Activities

    there are sooo many to join. there are over 100 clubs present and you can even create your own. they have a lot of fun events within their club groups and even field trips to other states.(usually md, ny, and d.c)
    Greek Life

    there are a few sororities and fraternities but they are not very widely known. it seems only people who are in it or know those who are, know about the fraternities and sororities present.
    Campus Safety

    cops are always patrolling and there are several emergency phones scattered across campus.

  • Derek from Dallas, GA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    This campus has its ups and down. Its small enough to encourage a great learning environment yet large enough to give a taste of college life. Its a great place to start, and who knows, you may wind up staying.
    Tips for prospective students

    -Look around for off campus housing.
    -Get familiar with the area as there is not much to do on campus, especially on the weekends.
    -Get involved with clubs on campus. THON, LAmbs, and Blue and White Society are great places to start.
    Academic Rigor

    You know your professors and they know you. They're always willing to help and want to see you succeed. As a Penn State campus, you do have to work for your degree.
    Dorm Life

    I've never lived on campus but from what I hear and see it can be pretty boring at times.
    Food and Dining

    The on campus cafeteria is decent but overpriced if you don't have a meal plan. They also tend to have weird hours at critical points in the semester. Get to know the area around campus as a few places give discounts to students.
    What to do for fun

    Join clubs, sports teams, or just get a group of friends together. For those of age there are a few places for night life not too far from campus.
    Clubs and Activities

    There are over 50 active clubs on campus. Get involved, meet people, make some new friends, and have fun.
    Campus Safety

    Its a small campus (~5000 students with around 1000 living on campus) so there is not much to go wrong. The police are ALWAYS around (that's good and bad) but mainly its friends that watch out for each other.

  • Angelica from Astoria, NY

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The education you get at this campus is pretty good. Like at any school it depends on the professor and class you're taking. I am majoring in accounting, so I'm taking a lot of business classes. I have definitely learned a lot in those classes, especially in accounting. You also get some pretty cool elective choices here as well.
    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is located in Middletown, PA which doesn't have much to offer, but Harrisburg is like a 15-20 minute drive away and there are things to do around there. The only thing I don't like about this campus is that student/campus life is pretty much dead. There usually isn't much going on and it can get really boring sometimes. There are barely any big events and when there is, the turn out is usually not that great. Thankfully I live off campus so I can go visit my friends who live around me. If you can make the best of the situation it's not too bad.
    Bang for the buck

    Tuition isn't that bad, especially if you're an instate student. I'm an out of state student and it's about $20,000 year. For the education you get and the resources you're available to it's not too bad. Classes sizes are relatively small so you can go to your professor during his/her office hours for extra help if you need it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Go in with an open mind and make the best out of your situation. And if you're a freshman DON'T slack off your first semester, no matter how easy you think it seems because it will end up hurting you in the future.
    Great for these types of students

    This campus is definitely a good place for commuters and people who like to know everyone and who like a relatively small place to learn.