University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY, USA

Reviews

University at Buffalo

Matthew from Stockbridge, GA

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
This school has great programs for several different disciplines: Pharmacy, Architecture, Dentistry, Law, Nursing, Anthropology, etc. Spend some time really considering which one you would most like to pursue and then really immerse yourself in it.
Am enjoying being here
I have made a lot of great friends here and have taken part in a couple of really great groups. The school offers a good amount of activities to entertain its students. However, Buffalo itself can be a pretty dull town and North campus (the main undergraduate campus) isn't exactly in the center of it all. You can still find something to do if your creative, though.
Bang for the buck
Now, as public schools go UB is not that pricey and when you consider all the resources that come with two large, bustling campuses (and one more I have yet to visit) you really are paying a little to get access to a lot. That is as long as you take advantage of the resources that you are paying for. A lot of people don't take advantage of these and end up paying the same price for very little in the long run.
Tips for prospective students
Professors are your friends so talk to them, get to know them, and most importantly get them to like you. This also goes for TA's who end up grading your assignments (when the class) has TA's. Don't just study, prepare. Professors don't write syllabi for fun (I mean seriously writing those things can't be fun) so read them use them to see where your at and where your going (but remember that they are tentative). And finally, GET TUTORING. It really doesn't matter if you think you don't need it. Whether it be from a hired tutor, a mentor, a TA, or even the professor his/herself, as long as you've got the time go for it (heck, us it as a refresher).
Great for these types of students
This school is really great for people interested in Healthcare or even in any Graduate studies.

Emily from Watkins Glen, NY

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I feel like I learned so much in just one year. There are so many libraries on campus, and teachers have office hours every week. Not only did I advance academically, but living in Buffalo taught me some good life
Am enjoying being here
I Love Buffalo, there is always something to do. In the residence halls the hall councils are constantly planning events and gatherings. There is a sporting event of some kind almost everyday throughout the year. If you feel like going out, you have many choices for night time activities. I made friends easily and felt so accepted any where I went on campus.
Bang for the buck
DEFINITELY!!! I pay in-state tuition and I feel like I get more than I am paying for. There is always something free being given away in the student union, whether it's t-shirts or food. Students get into sporting events free. There are so many clubs to join, or you can start your own it's a really simple process. The only thing I would say is not so much worth it are the books, the book store on campus charges an outrageous amount, and you dont get very much back when you return them.
Tips for prospective students
If you are living in residence halls make friends with the people on your floor. If you are off campus living I suggest you join a club. Walk to class as much as you can when it's nice out, cause when it gets cold in the winter you won't want to go outside.
Great for these types of students
Good luck and have fun, University at Buffalo has soooo many wonderful things to offer their students.

Kelsey from Rochester, NY

a current student here
8 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have learned a lot in many of the classes I have taken so far here. UB has a great range of class sizes, anywhere from 20 to 450 student classes. I think that it is easier to learn in the smaller classes. As a history major, I have had many good class experiences but many of my peers in the sciences have difficulty learning in the large lecture classes. I think the quality of your experience depends on your major. But don't get me wrong - UB is a very good school for sciences, particularly those interested in research.
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love UB. I love being surrounded by people and dorm life here is great. There is such a great range of academic programs and classes and you have such an incredible freedom to choose what you want your college career to look like. UB has an incredible number of resources for your future. Plus the UB student association has enough resources to get famous speakers and music artists to visit every year.
Bang for the buck
No question about it - as part of the SUNY system, it is one of the cheapest schools you could attend (if you live in NY that is). Large Research University for super cheap. Biggest in the SUNY system and very high quality school. One of the only public universities with pharmacy, architecture, and medical programs.
Tips for prospective students
If you got above a 1450 on the SAT, be sure to apply for the Presidential Scholarship. Otherwise, it doesn't matter because UB will inform you upon acceptance whether or not you qualify for their scholarships.
Great for these types of students
Students who love crowds, who are looking to get a job, who want to get involved on campus (there are almost a hundred clubs), who don't know what their academic/career plans are yet, and students who are looking to be located within reach of a city.

Taylor from Lewiston, NY

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
In three sentences I would label The University at Buffalo as follows....
1.) Being a transfer student from a local community college, UB contains the most intimidating lecture hall I have ever been a part of.
2.) There are unlimited resources and buildings to go to in order to receive help to get your grades up, by both other students and staff!
3.) The diversity on campus is astounding... I've met people from all over the world and knowing they picked to share your campus with you really makes you feel proud to say you attend the University at Buffalo.
Tips for prospective students
The biggest tip I can say for prospective students is to come visit us! There is so much going on around campus 24/7 and so many people willing to interact with you, its an amazing experience. I was very skeptical about transferring to such a big University after being in small 20 person classrooms at a community college, but I do not regret making the decision to attend.
If you get an email with your registration date for classes REMEMBER THAT DATE! Classes go like crazy and you definitely have to be on top of your game.
Also, never give up. My first semester at this university was draining the life out of me. I studied every single day, was practicing old exams every week day and never missed a class. I struggled, bad. But after you get the hang of your classes and put forth the effort in the work you'll see a world of a difference and it will get better, trust me.
Academic Rigor
I just finished my first semester after transferring from a smaller college and I had no idea what I was getting myself into...
I'm a premed student and the work involved is stressful. I have to really work for your grades in the science and math courses. I spend hours in the math help center and the chemistry lab help rooms but it was worth it.
The work load is not overwhelming but I had to work my butt off to comprehend what I was learning and do well in the labs.
Dorm Life
Being from buffalo I commute and do not dorm on campus but I do have a few friends that do and enjoy every minute of it. There is so much to do in buffalo and even in walking distance on campus that you are never confined to your dorm. I have became friends with multiple people dorming on campus and always heard good things about the roommates and accommodations to the rooms.
The only issue I could see with dorming is the walk from the dorms to class in our harsh winters....yuck.
Food and Dining
There are countless options when it comes to food on campus. We have everything from Chinese take outs to subway, to a diner, to full Italian restaurants. You wont starve that's for sure.
The food isn't cheap but not crazy over-priced at all, I have been exploring around campus for months now and still find new things to try every day.
What to do for fun
The student union is always holding fun little events all day which is cool to check out on your breaks.
The football games!!! We have country concert tailgating parties before and even in the game its a blast. I've never seen so much support over a school's sports team before, definitely something to look forward to.
The snow always brings fun things to do, there's ice skating at canalside all winter long only a 10 minute drive from campus.
If you're 21 downtown buffalo's 100s of bars are always packed on weekends and a ton of fun or even just to walk around downtown buffalo is like a vacation there are so many restaurants and places to visit.

Sandra from Athens, NY

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I'm in the Aerospace Engineering program at UB, and it's very challenging. In general, the entire Engineering program is well-structured and helpful. Many of the professors are caring, and they really want you to get something out of the program.
Am enjoying being here
The school is huge, so there are all kinds of people around, and it can get very crowded in the libraries and dining areas sometimes. Living on campus can be tough sometimes; the residence halls are always an interesting experience. Laundry is free and the food is at edible. The weather is Buffalo weather - very windy, but definitely bearable. And you can get through all the North Campus academic buildings without walking outside.
Bang for the buck
Because I'm from NY, I pay in-state tuition, which really is comparably cheap. The Engineering program at UB is phenomenal, though. There are state-of-the-art labs here, and the professors definitely have experience. Also, the Honors College here (which unfortunately does not accept transfer students) is incorporated very well and allows students to excel beyond their academic program. They do charge a mandatory activity fee (about $100), but all sports games are free to students (all Division I teams, Go Bulls!), there are hundreds of free clubs, two free concerts a year, and plenty of activities throughout the year such as movies and tie-dye nights. Definitely worth it!
Tips for prospective students
Check out the campus before you come. And come in the winter, especially if you're not used to snow or cold. UB offers a ton of majors, and even a create-your-own option, so survey and research all of your options before choosing a degree program. The advisers usually have a lot on their plates, so do your research before speaking to them (know what you have to take/want to take for classes). And google professors before you sign up for classes, some accents are very hard to understand, and not all of them actually care about teaching.
Great for these types of students
Great for students that want a big school. If you like to do all kinds of things, and have different interests, UB is great for that. A very good school for people with outgoing personalities.

Taryn from Clarence, NY

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The classes can be very difficult. Be prepared to buckle down on many subjects. Fortunately there is lots of help available. Teaching Assistants (often grad students) and your best resource. ATTEND OFFICE HOURS!! As long as you are willing to learn, you will take in more in one year than you have in all of your education thus far.
Am enjoying being here
There are so many clubs, sports, and programs for students. And If nothing we have interests you, the Student Association will help you start your own club! Because UB is a big school, it is essential to become involved on a smaller scale. Without extra activities, this school can consume you. However, when you do join something at UB, the world is opened up to you.
Bang for the buck
SUNY Schools are known for having low tuition compared to private schools. This is why SUNY and UB have both seen record numbers in incoming applications this year. And because our staff is filled with research professors, our classes are modern and innovative.
Tips for prospective students
Get involve from the very start. Don't try to settle in first. Sign up for clubs your FIRST day. It will provide you with friends, purpose, and a means to stand out in the crowd of 27,000 students.
Great for these types of students
Anyone looking into a science major will thrive at UB. Because is is a large public school, we receive many federal grants for research. Our professors are top of the line regarding modern techniques and technology. Even some of our general chemistry professors have worked with NASA. A health, math, or science degree from UB can take you anywhere you want to go.

Deanna from Scotia, NY

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors are, for the most part, knowledgeable and engaging. There are some professors who seem to be more absorbed in their activities and duties outside of the classroom (like research) and can be a hard to get a hold of or connect with. One noteworthy feature of this university is the school's writing place and math place where students can go to get free tutoring with all different levels of math work as well as help with writing papers. In my experience professors are always available during office hours and typically are helpful in a one on one setting.
Am enjoying being here
This school is fairly large and meeting people can be difficult. UB has a north and south campus, there are fewer people living on south. Incoming freshman typically live in the dorms on north campus where it is arguably easier to meet people because everyone is thrown together in one complex. On south campus, however, there are less people and the dorm buildings are more broken up. There are several ways to meet new people: joining school clubs, participating in school activities, joining fraternities and sororities. The night life in Buffalo is pretty good. There are several bars and clubs that are only 18 to enter. UB also offers activities every Friday night through the student association which can also be a lot of fun. There have been numerous times that i come to school or leave my building to find random and fun events set up. Some of these events included: a BBQ with free food, a UB Idol event with a stage set up, and a bouncy bounce obstacle course with free balloon animals. There is always free pizza available on Wednesdays for hump day. These are just a few of the random activities that UB sponsors to make sure that each day has something fun and exciting to offer students.
Bang for the buck
Being a SUNY school Buffalo gives students a lot of bang for their buck. Tuition for in-state students is roughly five thousand a semester and the educational experience is worth every cent. The university offers numerous academic services including tutoring, undergraduate research, career centers, career fests, etc. Whether you are a freshman who has fallen behind in their calculus class or a graduating senior who needs help writing their resume and preparing for job interviews--UB has services to assist you. There is also a shuttle service available for all students that runs between north and south campus. It helps you save on gas money and its good for the environment! Aside from academic service UB also sponsors dozens of fun events and activities. Each year they hold a fall and spring fest concerts. Every Friday the student association sponsors late night events in the student union. There is always an occasion for free food, carnivals are set up, and free movies (with popcorn included!) There is plenty to do at UB and most of it is free!
Tips for prospective students
- Get to know your adviser as soon as you have been assigned to them. They can tell you a lot about which classes you should be taking and when (its best to think about a tentative schedule a few semesters in advance).
- Apply for housing and make your housing deposit as soon as possible to ensure that you get placed in the building--and on the campus--that you prefer.
- Take a tour of the campus once or twice before actually arriving. Also when you get there you will have a few days to settle in before classes start i would suggest you bring a copy of your schedule around and find the location of your classes. You might also want to play around with the shuttle system and get to know how it works.
- Its hard to stand out in lecture hall classes but the better you get to know your teachers the more you will stand out. Visit their offices during office hours, ask good questions, look for undergraduate research opportunities, converse with them over email.
Great for these types of students
Students who are looking for a large school and a lot of independence. There isn't a lot of hand holding. You have to go out of your way to meet with your adviser, pick your classes, meet with your professors, make it to your classes (and plan ahead to do so if you live on south campus and your classes are on north). Any type of person can fit in at this university because there are so many people. There is a lot of diversity and just about anyone can find there place.

Alana from Salisbury Mills, NY

accepted here and planning to attend soon
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Will learn a lot
The professors are really nice, and a friend of mine has not had a single issue with any of his classes. It's really something to look forward to.
Will enjoy being here
I really love the campus. I am going to be there this summer for orientation! I have enrolled and everything, so I really look forward to being there. A friend of mine says it's a great place to be, even in the winter!
Bang for the buck
For in-state students, it is (of course) cheaper than for other students. BUT that should not be discouraging! The rooms are a great size, the campus is gorgeous and the education is great.

Hannah from Saratoga Springs, NY

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I feel like since I have attended college this fall I really have learned quite a lot of new material. A lot of the classes I am taking now are General Education requirements that everyone has to take unless you have received credit for these courses by taking AP exams in high school. Even though I have taken some of the courses I am enrolled in the professors teach more in depth than in high school so it is a nice to refresh my memory while learning more about the field of study.
Am enjoying being here
SUNY Buffalo isn't quite what I had in mind for college but I do think that this school has a lot to offer. I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to study in college so I am glad that I picked a larger school because I feel like there are many opportunities for students to explore what works for them. I have a better understanding of what kind of school I think I would excel best at and I am not so sure that a large school is the best option for me. The classes are a big large, some of them in big lecture halls, but other than that the advisers here are very helpful and the staff is very nice.
Bang for the buck
For being a New York resident, SUNY Buffalo is a bang for the buck education if you are looking for a large school with lots of academic opportunities. The school has many Division 1 athletic teams for boys and girls and there are many club and inter-mural teams here as well.
Tips for prospective students
Definitely go visit more than one time. I liked it when I first visited but I wasn't in love with it. I liked the athletics that is offered here and the fact that it is state tuition. Make sure that you really get a feel for the campus by scheduling a tour of campus during one of the Prospective Student visiting dates. Make sure that when you visit you ask yourself if you can see yourself going to that school. It definitely helps you see if you feel a connection to the campus- some people know instantly while others need to revisit a few times.

Also schedule a time to talk to an academic adviser if you are really serious about attending the college.
Great for these types of students
SUNY Buffalo has a phenomenal Civil Engineering program and it's definitely well worth everything you pay for if you are a NY resident.
Nursing, Pharmacy, and Pre-med are also very popular majors here and the state tuition is an asset to students who attend UBuff because its less expensive than out of state schools similar to UB.
The Business programs are also very good and there are many options for students to explore.

Ashlie from East Rochester, NY

a current student here
3 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors truly know how to connect with students and make sure we get the full impact of the lessons. They even know how to get a laugh or two to make the classes interesting and not so boring.
Am enjoying being here
Living on campus is a great experience. Everyone is so nice, it feels like one big family. There are so many activities going on through out the year that makes it is easy to meet and make plenty of friends.
Bang for the buck
SUNY Buffalo is such a great school that provides a top education and tons of fun for a very low tuition.
Tips for prospective students
So many people apply to SUNY Buffalo it is best to tour the school and apply as soon as possible.
Great for these types of students
It's great for anyone looking for a top education for a low cost as well as those who love to make friends and have fun.