Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA, USA

Reviews

Virginia State University

Jasmine from Springfield, NJ

a current student here
32 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors that I have come in contact with so far at VSU, have all be amazing. The knowledge held within the school grounds is overwelming. I feel as though a little bit every day rubs off and sticks to me. I have learned so much being on Virginia State's campus. Not only was I learning from the professors and administrators, but other students and student leaders as well. 4 stars.
Am enjoying being here
Virginia State is without a doubt a party school. If you like to dress up and go out, then this is the place for you. Three, sometimes four, days a week you can find buses packed taking students into Richmond for the clubs. I love it. There are also so many activities (i.e ice cream socials, open-mic nights) for people to meet and greet or just chill out and hang with their friends.
Bang for the buck
VSU is expensive, especially for me being that I am an out-of-state student. However, I feel like it is worth every penny. There is never a time when you are sitting around thinking to yourself why am I paying for this? Everything is on point. The campus is beautiful. The curriculum is outstanding. And I must admit, the cafeteria food is not so bad.
Tips for prospective students
I advice anyone attending Virginia State University to not get caught up in the party scene like I did. It is great and made so easy, by all the organizations and activities on campus, to have a very active social life. Stay focused. There are counselors and student leaders all over eager and ready to help you achieve you goals. Take full advantage.
Great for these types of students
This University is great for urbanized students, who love and appreciate the African American culture. VSU is perfect for students who love to have a good time, while getting the higher education that their, or their parent's, hard earned money is paying for.

Chasity from Midlothian , VA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors at Virginia State University are amazing,they are very personable and there schedules are very flexible. They are always willing to stay after class or set-up an appointment during office hours in order to assist with any problem the student is having.
Am enjoying being here
No matter the time or season, there is always something happening on the campus. The best part is that the events are not only enjoyable but they are informative as well. You will be enlightened and entertained at the same time.
Bang for the buck
Although I am an instate student I have many friends who pay out of state tuition and we all agree on one thing: Virginia State University is worth every penny that we pay. We are employed by campus departments we enjoy the food and rooms and as previously stated the events that take place are always to our liking.If we had to choose all over again we would still Choose Virginia State University.
Tips for prospective students
Virginia State offers everything a prospective student is interested in. From the comfortable residence Halls to the amazing three story library that is useful for every course not just literature and essays. Make sure to take advantage of the resources available such as the sisip program and the academic support center. You will love Virginia State University!
Great for these types of students
Minority Students, Intellectual students who are focused on their studies,Virginia and non-Virginia residents, and Athletes.

Aisha from Woodbridge, VA

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Each Professor try to work side my side with the students there. Very small classes, with less then 50 students in each, and really good useful technology to make learning easier. If we ever need extra help each professor is available all week on their office hours. With the help of my professors I'm learning a lot of new materials that will take me far in my education. Some of the classes might be hard but they all take hard work and long hours of studying.
Am enjoying being here
I LOVE THE CAMPUS, there is always something to do. It's almost impossible to be bored, Yes it's a party school but you have to know how to balance your social life and your school work. There is multiple places on campus we can go to have fun or just hangout with our friends. I love everything about being on campus, by just walking outside for some fresh air, its a very easy way to meet new friends.
Bang for the buck
VSU is not a cheap university, it's take a lot of money. I had to take loans because I was a bit short on money, but then again I got lucky with an $5,000 award I received. For students coming from out of state, it's even more expensive, with all the money we are paying, at the end its all worth it, because we are getting our education, having fun, and meeting new people.
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you put your school work first, and don't party as much. After all its a party school, and there are at least four parties a week, so there is always time to party. Stay Focus on your assignments, DO NOT PROCRASTINATE, it's will catch up to you at the end. Meet new people, get out and join so clubs, take advantage of every penny your parents are spending.
Great for these types of students
For anyone who want to have fun and who can stay focus on their work. Majority of the students might be African-American, but everyone is welcome, and everyone will get the same experience. If you just want to join clubs, the band, or the woo woo's, just join the family, you wont regret it :-).

Ashley from Richmond, VA

a current student here
6 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Virginia State is one of the best H.B.C.U's in the state. The population at Virginia State allows you to get a personal relationship with the professors and the other students. The faculty here is great.
Tips for prospective students
Virginia State University is a four-year Historically Black College University. This university offers over 30 majors and is well known around the states. Being a Trojan can be exciting and very beneficial. Everywhere I go I always see and V.S.U alumni and/or student.
Academic Rigor
The academic grading scale here at Virginia State University differ from high school. You must have a 2.5 GPA to get accepted here. There is a ten point grading scale the university goes by: 100-90 being an A, 89-80 being a B, 79-70 being a C.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is the best life. Being a resident assistant here open more doors far as picking dorms and rooms. The dorms have different programs and activities for the students living on campus. There are few rules living on campus but overall it is very beneficial.
Food and Dining
Virginia State University has four on campus dinning places. They also have two on campus food stores. You may use your school meal plan for any of the six choices. The food quality is is great. The cafe serve soul food and fast food.
What to do for fun
There is several activities on and close to campus to do for fun. Student Activities and other organizations on campus will have a social, ice-cream party, dances in the gym, pool parties, etc throughout the school year. Fellow Trojans will also hold an event at near by places.
Bang for the buck
Lets go Trojan Pride! Virginia State University is an excellent school to attend. There are varies activities for any and everyone to be able to get involved. There are over 30 majors to choose from. This four year university has a lot to offer to every student who attend here. The faculty is the best. You can build a personal relationship with all your professors and other Trojans. There all kinds of things to do on campus so that you will not be bored. There is NO CURFEW.Here at Virginia State University our motto is Dream. Explore. Learn.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Virginia State University has three Trojan Heads on the campus. It is said that if you step on any of the three you will be held back an extra semester. This myth has been tested and is true. Therefore students avoid stepping on any part of the Trojan Head.
Great for these types of students
Virginia State is an Historically Black College University but is very diverse. There is over 200 organizations and/or activities on campus for every type of student. It varies from modeling and dance to golf and bowling.
Clubs and Activities
There is a wide selection to choose from. This is a Division 2 school under the C.I.A.A. We have many sports, clubs, organizations, and other activities to get involved in.
Greek Life
There is Greek life here. Virginia State University have the Divine Nine sororities and fraternities. This consist of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Phi beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
Campus Safety
We have campus police all over campus. We also have security call boxes throughout campus.

CaSondra from Schenectady, NY

a current student here
5 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Virginia State University is the most amazing experience I could've ever been apart of. It makes me feel right at home and makes sure you have all the opportunities I'm are searching for. There is no other place I'd rather be Virginia State University is the school everyone should attend.
Tips for prospective students
The one main thing that needs to be taken into concept is that you need some serious time management skills. All colleges have that effect on students but just be prepared. Always stay one step ahead of the game, you will have less to worry about.
Academic Rigor
The courses are pretty fair you get the help you need from teachers, tutors and even your academic advisers. If you are struggling there is always help at hand to those who need it. Make sure you are physically prepared and have your books and other class supplies you might need in the long run.
Dorm Life
The dorms are so comfortable during your stay at the school. They make sure everything that needs to be fixed is up to par and you get to meet new friends along the way. Common areas to relax, study or even play video games is for your use 24/7 if you need to get away to be by yourself for a little.
Food and Dining
The food is delightful and there are so many options to choose from. There are 2 diners so there is plenty of room to choose where you would like to eat. There is also other dining facility choices such as Subway, Starbucks, etc. You will always have your meal plan of your choosing.
What to do for fun
There are plenty of fun activities to do on campus as well as off campus. We have our own shuttle buses that will take us to the club or other events on the weekend, it also takes us to the local mall (The rides are free and unlimited). The school also hosts our own party events on campus as well as other things such as movie night and many athletic games to attend.

Tina from Surry, VA

a past student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
I loved this school when I was there. I miss it so much. I am thinking about going there for Graduate school. This school taught me alot and I l became a great woman at this school. Go STATE
Tips for prospective students
Make sure you turn your money for room and board on time. Also call the finacial aid department everyday. Stay in your advisors face. Join your department club also. Be very activie on campus. Always apply for internships.
Academic Rigor
Any college that you apply to is hard work. If you take part in tutoring ,talk to your proffesors, and adviors you will make it through.
Dorm Life
Some Beautiful dorms so not so beautiful . You will deal with loud and rude people. Its alearning experience. College life is all you want to make it. It will build you up as a person.
Food and Dining
it was good when i was there, thats where i got my weight from lol. I ate good every time.
What to do for fun
You will have to have fun people to hang with while you are there at a school. Theres the movies and diffrent on campus activities. And club organizations.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
You can step on the Trojan Head on campus.

If your not in Betterment of Brothers and Sisters you cant say BBS.

Football players come out like Greeks

People hang condoms from the tree near the bookstore.
Great for these types of students
Any type,-employed , graduate, parents, full-time, partime.
Clubs and Activities
BBS, Selected Ones , Carribean Associations, Karojoe, Tidewater Pre-Alumini, Sister2Sister , NewWater, FAAM, so many to name
Greek Life
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Founded 1906, Cornell University
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Founded 1908, Howard University
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Founded 1911, Indiana University
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Founded 1911, Howard University
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Founded 1913, Howard University
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Founded 1914, Howard University
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Founded 1920, Howard University
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Founded 1922, Butler University
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Founded 1963, Morgan State University

Campus Safety
It has gotten kind of iffy over the years , but overall it is a safe campus.

Tyshenia from Brooklyn, NY

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Virginia State University is Diverse with a family oriented atmosphere. It is great with helping transitioning from High School to College. Also the food is great!
Tips for prospective students
If your from the city please be prepared for the quite almost country life. But every prospective student should just be prepared that college isn't what they make it seem on television.
Academic Rigor
Professors at Virginia State University are great. If you had a professor one semester I promise you will most likely build a bond for the remainder of your time at the university.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is excellent. The Resident Assistants are down to earth and always have something fun and exciting planned for residents to attend and participate in.
Food and Dining
Food is okay. You have to get use to it and not eat it a lot because you will get bored with it.
What to do for fun
I Party with my friends on occasions, go out to eat, to the movies, and to the carnival when its town. We are 20 minutes away from Richmond so its a bunch of exciting stuff to venture into.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Its not wise to step on the trojan head its a tradition every time you step on the head, you will be here an extra semester.
Great for these types of students
This university is great for students that can maintain their academics along with their social life.
Clubs and Activities
Have every club for mostly every thing.

Angela from Richmond, VA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
it's a very amazing place to enjoy. you have wonderful education, great outdoor view, and diverse people.
Tips for prospective students
come to virginia state university with a positive attitude. it's a great importunity to pursue your dreams. they have some many helpful and useful resources offered here.
Academic Rigor
the academic rigor is very fair. it is a challenge to help you push yourself to your greatest abilities.
Dorm Life
some of the dorms are not the best, but the roommates are very nice. i enjoy the newer buildings. they are very nice and quiet.
Food and Dining
my favorite thing to do is eat. i enjoy that they have 4 different places where you can enjoy a meal. it's nice that you can sit and dine or either just grab a bite to eat.
What to do for fun
i love to hang with my friends and teammates. there is a lot around campus for us to do. they have reliable transportation that can take us to the mall or out to eat.
Bang for the buck
the tuition i paid is worth the bank for the buck. i enjoy the school and i believe it's worth it.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
i tend to always walk around the bookstore at least 3 times before i decide to go in.
Great for these types of students
it's great to go to school events. they give students a chance to meet new people and also learn as well.
Clubs and Activities
virginia state university has a lot of clubs and activities. i plan on joining a few, so it can look good on my transcript.
Greek Life
the greeks take a lot of pride in their organizations. they are really active with other students on campus. maybe one day i could be my dream organization.
Campus Safety
the safety on campus is very phenomenal. i feel very safe every time i step outside. campus police are extremely active and you will always see an office riding around no matter what time.

from Virginia Beach, VA

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Virginia State has faced problems just like any other university, so what is seen in the media should not be a determining factor when choosing to attend this school. The campus is beautiful, the majority of the teachers are excellent and passionate about helping the students, and your experience is what you make it.
Tips for prospective students
Before attending, make sure you have your financial aid covered. Be aware of your financial standing before you get here. This will give you a smoother transition into college. Next, don't be shy! The majority of students on campus are nice and welcoming to any questions you may have. Last, get involved. Whether that just means attending school events or joining a club. Make sure you are a social to obtain the full experience.
Academic Rigor
It really depends on your professor.
Dorm Life
Most of the dorms are in decent condition. Check the school site for more info.
Food and Dining
It's decent, nothing special. You will get used to it. Make sure you get a meal plan with FLEX dollars once you become a sophomore.
What to do for fun
The best thing you can do to have fun is make friends and attend events. Off campus - you can visit the bowling alley, skating rink, Swaders, etc.
Clubs and Activities
There are a TON of organizations to join - academic and social. The most popular or active organizations on campus are the social orgs. Next, there are many activities hosted on campus mainly by TAB (Trojan Activities Board). They do comedy shows monthly and carnivals each semester. Next you have organizations such as SLOT (Student Liaison Outreach Team) and Kerojo and Urban Coture ( Modeling Orgs), as well as ABSTRAKT. These organizations also provide entertainment through a variety of events and forums. For example, SLOT hosts socials - which are basically on campus parties. There's always a great turn out.
Greek Life
We have a pretty decent amount of Greek Orgs. Check out the YT channel Whaddup with VSU to get a better look.
Campus Safety
Campus is pretty safe, but you should always walk around campus with a group or a friend - especially at night.

D'Asia from Erlanger, KY

a current student here
1 person found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
Virginia State University is one that I would recommend for future students. The degrees offered are ones that are rated excellent. Virginia State understands how to balance social and school work.
Tips for prospective students
Apply for as many scholarships as you can! Being out of state, my tuition is higher so scholarships and grants come in handy. Do not get distracted by the college life your freshman year because your academics will affect you more than the party life will. Interact with classmates, including upperclassmen. Virginia State is a very friendly environment and most people talk to everyone.
Academic Rigor
The academics are taken seriously here but social events happen on the yard as well. It is a good idea to get a close relationship with your advisor as they are able to help you throughout the year. Create a relationship with your teachers as well.
Dorm Life
The dorm life is a good experience depending on where you are placed. The dorms are for the most part clean but like I said depending on where you are, and who is placed with you depends on the cleanliness of the hall. There are custodians in most of the dorms that have a community style bathroom
Food and Dining
The food is good when you first get here. Every Wednesday there is fried chicken and every Friday there is fish for lunch. Throughout the week, it varies. The healthy options are very limited which is a downfall about Virginia State. It is very social in the cafe. Music is often played on speakers throughout the dining hall.
What to do for fun
For fun, there are local house parties around campus. They are walking distant but make sure you are walking with someone else, especially at night. If you do not have a car, there is a shuttle that takes you to the mall and wal mart. If you have a car, you are able to do a lot more. Throughout the year, there are clubs that have parties and buses get sent to the university to pick the kids up.
Greek Life
The Greek Life at Virginia State is very live! Everyone tries to come out to all the step shows and step-offs. Do not let it be known what you wish to pledge to others. It is something that no one except for you are supposed to know.
Campus Safety
It is very good! Police are always driving around making sure the campus is secure. There are emergency post at every other corner so if you are walking late at night alone(which is not recommended) and feel unsafe or something happens and you need help, you can push the button and assistance will immediately will be sent out. While help is coming, every camera around you will be pointed in your direction to make sure you are okay while someone is coming. So safety is very good at Virginia State.