San Jose State University
San Jose, CA, USA

Reviews

San Jose State University

Tatiana from San Francisco, CA

a current student here
15 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I have taken English 1A, Latino Identity (psycology), Remedial Math, and Intro to Sociology. English 1A is the GE English class required for undergrad students. My teacher, Mr. Mujal, was amazing. It was a small class of 25, and he made sure everyone was involved with each discussion. Since he was also a history major, many of our essay topics were about political leaders. Apart from learning about political leaders, we also learned alot about ourselves. We had to write about a controversial topic. We all had a passion for these topics. In Latino Id, i learned all about Latinos across the world. My teacher taught us about many of the psychological disorders Latinos face and what we can do to help these people overcome them. We also learned about the roots of many these disorders. This class was the most interesting of all. Remedial Math is where I learned basic math skills. In Intro to Soc, my teacher taught me how to examine the simplest of things and question them.
Am enjoying being here
San Jose State not only offers great education, but also is dedicated to making sure students have the most fun they can. So far, they have passed out free movie tickets, held ice skating, movie nights, a homecoming carnival, and many other fun things. Also for freshman, SJSU offers Frosh Start in which Freshman move in early and get a chance to meet other Freshman. They offer icebreakers, a tour, a dance, and etc.
SJSU is not only fun, but it is also a beautiful school. The buildings are all close to each other. Also the weather is very unique. At SJSU, you experience both the sun and the heavy winds. When it is sunny, we have a large outdoors swimming pool.
We are also close to alot of great restaurants and a lot of malls.
Bang for the buck
Since Cal states are experiencing a lot of budget cuts, it is extremely difficult to get the classes you want or need. Other than this, I believe that SJSU is affordable.

Also if you have a meal plan, you get unlimited access to the cafeteria (unlike many other schools).

We also get VTA passes. With these passes we can ride any bus or light rail in San Jose for free. You can go anywhere from the mall to surrounding cities.
Tips for prospective students
On the first day of classes, you are given a green sheet. All the test dates and assignments are written on it. Your teachers will not remind you what will be due or when you have a test- they expect you to know.
Also, sign up for the first orientation. I signed up for the last one and all of the classes were taken!
Great for these types of students
-like both sunny and windy weather
-intimate class settings
-involved student body
-large campus
-outgoing
-appreciate beautiful landscape
-love to swim or run
-like to go shopping
-adventurous

Ashley from San Jose, CA

a current student here
13 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
- Lower division General Ed classes have always been pretty easy. You get what you put in. You want to learn a lot, study, and get a solid A+ or if you want to put in little work, study right before major tests and get a B-/C+ then you can do that too. Teachers have ALWAYS been really motivational, great advice for life whether or not you are actually learning anything about actual class material.

- I'm a journalism major. Once I've gotten into classes IN MY MAJOR my opinion of the school and the environment is totally different. Journalism department has a ton of inspired, awesome teachers - minus a few oldies (Tillinghast) that are horrid. Students are also helpful/nice/talkative. Being in my department has definitely made me love the school ten times more. :)
Am enjoying being here
Awesome place for commuter students who work. I happen to work downtown, so it's got a pretty central location. The campus is decent enough - pretty kick back, especially if you enjoy an occasional conversation with a crazy homeless person or have a close encounter with the ridiculous amount of squirrels. :) - if you go here, you'll know EXACTLY what I mean.

Our library is pretty banging. Huge, (also a public library) TONS of quite space to study/entire building made of windows so it's not a boring place to study either.

Great school if your from the area... however... i still recommend going away to school if your local - IF it's manageable. I know I regret it.... you only have these years once, do them right!
Bang for the buck
I think tuition is ridiculous at any school. I've never opened a book for ANY of my classes (so if you want - go ahead and save a few bucks there). That being said.... teachers/classes are decent. YES there are a few shitty teachers - you will probably have one each semester. BUT a majority are pretty decent - as long as you remember they are human too, they are there to teach you, and you RESPECT them.
Tips for prospective students
- If your a local - be sure you check out other schools. Not saying this isn't a good school (especially journalism, in the top 10 in the state), BUT just dont' regret not going away, like myself.

- Hang out on campus
- Join a club
- Get involved
- Enjoy the concerts and such in the Spartan Complex
- Get ready for a bunch of marijuanna clubs handing out their business cards/deals around campus! =P
- 30 in from the beach/Santa Cruz Boardwalk - GO OFTEN!
- 45 min from San Francisco - see the Golden Gate Bridge and other historical sights. Great shopping/food there. SEE ALCATRAZ

Great for these types of students
* Commuter
* Someone who doesn't NEED clubs, scene in SJ isn't to great - prefers Frat parties or Bars and such.
* People who prefer to keep to themselves
* The hard workers and the stoner slackers.
* honestly, there seems to be a place for everyone at SJSU

Nancy from San Jose, CA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Hello there! I am currently a freshman at SJSU and I am enrolled in Economics 1B (Micro Economics), NuFS 9 (Human Nutrition), MUSC 10A (Music Appreciation), MATH 30 (Calculus I), and MATH 30W (Calculus Workshop). This is a total of 14 units. The professors are really nice and dedicate their teaching to students who wants to understand the concept and subject. Take my NuFS 9 class, for example. We learn about how the body absorb the types of food we eat and how the body function through the amount and variation of food we consume. Although there are a lot of information to absorb within an hour and 15 minutes, it feels like you have been enlightened! This class has influenced me to eating smart and healthy. Another class that is a good example is Calculus. Calculus AB AP did not fit in my schedule in high school and I was forced to take it in college. Because my friends who took it previously said calculus was hard, it made my frightened about college level calculus. To my surprise, the professor does a really good job in teaching the theorems and rules of calculus. It is a good school for those who are more comfortable with the Semester system!
Am enjoying being here
SJSU has a lot to offer! There are many sororities and fraternities and student-run organizations. Although I am too busy to join any clubs, they all look appealing to me. There is even a Quidditch Club (yes, Harry Potter, quidditch)! There's also an event center where many concerts and special events take place and you can buy your tickets via ticketmaster in front of the center.
During the first couple weeks of school, there were so many events happening around campus and special college major events for freshmen to feel welcomed to SJSU. I am a bit shy of a person and my school spirit is very low, but SJSU did a successful job in making me feel at home.
The campus is very beautiful and peaceful. There are many cafes on and off campus, so you can basically eat what you feel like without having to stray far away from campus.
The fun doesn't stop there! Apart from on-campus luxury, there are many things to see in downtown. There are places such as the Tech Museum, an art museum, the HP pavilion, San Jose Conventional Center (the place where Fanime is held annually), the Children's Discovery Museum and more! SJSU is located where all the fun and excitement gather. So don't miss this opportunity for easy access adventures!
Bang for the buck
Even though SJSU is a CSU school, it offers more than just a CSU. Its amazing engineering, business, and nursing program prepares students for their career. Located at the heart of Silicon Valley, engineers are provided with many advantages to job/internship opportunities. And if you are living at home and commuting, you save a LOT of money from dorming and food.
Tips for prospective students
When signing up for your orientation, if you are conditionally accepted, I suggest you to register for the orientation ASAP. Due to budget cuts, the school has put a unit cap on everyone so student can only enroll in 14 units MAX until the cap is lifted. To get the classes you want, the earlier your orientation date is, the better!
Great for these types of students
SJSU is known for their ENGINEERING, BUSINESS and NURSING majors. Other majors are also great too!
SJSU is also great for students who wants to live near home, around San Jose, Fremont, Cupertino, SF, Union City, Morgan Hill, Gilroy, etc.
Dorms are also available to ANYBODY, even though you live near SJ ^_^

Nicholas from San Leandro, CA

a current student here
7 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
Throughout the time that I have attended San Jose State, I have been able to have knowledgable, helpful teachers who can relate to the topics their teach through their past real-life experiences. The teachers are always available to arrange meetings outside of class for extra help and further discussion of topics.
Am enjoying being here
San Jose State offers many extracurricular activities along with an extensive network of students, staff, and alumni. I have been able to stay consistently active in a fraternity, club, and on-campus job. Through those organizations, I have been able to meet people throughout many industries that have helped my professional development.
Bang for the buck
The cost of tuition highly reasonable compared to other public colleges and much more affordable compared to private colleges. For the most part, all of the teachers are highly knowledgable and approachable thus creating a great learning environment. The hands-on teaching styles are great being that it keeps the students active in the lessons being taught. The reason for a 4 of 5 is due to the high cost of living on campus. The cost of living on campus is easily two times the cost of tuition and is causes most of the financial hardship.
Tips for prospective students
Highly suggest visiting each college of interest before accepting any offer. Meeting the students and staff on campus is a great way to see how the college experience will be at that campus. Also look for a college that will be able to develop more than just your academic portfolio.
Great for these types of students
Students that are interested in startup companies and entrepreneurship will be at an advantage attending San Jose State University because of it is located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Due to the location, many opportunities arrise to meet and listen to speeches from top industry leaders. The Engineering and Business departments at San Jose State have a true advantage compared to other school due to the close work opportunities and hands-on courses.

graciela from seaside, ca

a current student here
4 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
my first year at san jose has been all i could have imagined. the professors are enlightening and the counselors are always there to help. as for the students, this school is very diverse. i have met people from all over the states, and found lifelong friends.
Tips for prospective students
join as many clubs as you can !
Academic Rigor
it may seem hard to keep your academic priorities in line. my first semester is an example of that. yet with hard work and going to class, doing the homework it all pays off.
Dorm Life
i stayed in joe west, i had the best roommates possible and loved every single person on my floor. joe west is very social, wouldn't trade it for the world.
Food and Dining
downtown food is amazing, you can find anything and everything. as for the dinning commons, its awesome for the first month, then you get over the free jamba juice. the student union is awesome though, you can get panda every week. we also just got a starbucks and subway on campus!
What to do for fun
you can go to the tailgates and football games which are always fun. there is a ton to do in downtown san jose and the vta is an awesome form of transportation that makes it easy to get around if you don't drive. there's also greek life ! tip* if you take caltrain discounted you can get to sf from the sj train station for $4. santa cruz is also close if you miss the beach!
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
la vicks ! that is everyones go to spot after a night out. the taco trucks are also close to campus and open till 3am. also we have raves on campus, and students get discounts.
Great for these types of students
if you are someone who is open minded and friendly, this is definitely the school for you.
Clubs and Activities
alot of clubs, im in akbayan and i have met awesome people through it.
Greek Life
the frats throw awesome parties, and the sorority girls are really nice
Campus Safety
we are right next to downtown so they are some weird people you can encounter. as for the campus itself it is very safe. they have university pd driving around and emergency blue buttons around the campus if you are ever in trouble

brian from san jose, ca

accepted here and planning to attend soon
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
san jose state is a great school. they provide many resources for students to be successful. although college is hard, there are always something fun to do there such as participating in clubs and sports.
Tips for prospective students
never hesitate to ask your professors for help. they are here for you; they are also available at their office. if you don't ask, you will fail. make sure to keep in touch with your professors if you are having concerns. in addition, counselors are even here to help you with anything you have in mind. remember, since you are paying for your tuition, you also pay to see the counselors, so take advantage of the resources that are available at sjsu.
Academic Rigor
i used to hear students struggling with english writing because writing is hard. there are some writing resource center at sjsu that will help students improve in their writing. also, college professors provide more works for the students, and may require an all nighter. it is best to manage your time wisely, or else you end up procrastinating.
Dorm Life
i honestly know that living in a dorm is great. you make friends with roomies, but then it is all about doing things on our own. in addition to that, there are resources at sjsu that will assists the students in making sure that the students know their ways at the dorm.
Food and Dining
the food there at sjsu is really good. they got panda express, taco bell, subway, and more! i was really expecting better foods than that, but it's all good. come try their food out, it is worth trying!
What to do for fun
even though college is going to be hell, there would always have something fun for you to do. of course, they provide various types of clubs and organizations out there. this will help you relax and it is important to take care of yourself. everyone always have fear about college, thinking to themselves that they won't succeed, but every college tries their best to make their students have fun.

Nitza from Pomona, CA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
San Jose State is a great school that offers many different options for students. Students have many different clubs or sports to join. Also, they offer a variety of tutoring services should you need it.
Tips for prospective students
Always attend class! Study your notes at least 5 minutes each day. If you are struggling with anything do not hesistate to seek help either from your professor or a tutor.
Academic Rigor
It's challenging depending on your major. However, it shouldn't be too challenging as long as you put in time to study. It is definitely doable.
Dorm Life
CVC is rather reserved and you don't meet very many people other than your roommates. However, there are few people that use the same bathroom and shower as you and the suite comes with a sink and microwave. Joe West and the bricks are way more social but you have to share the restrooms and showers with the whole floor and sometimes you have to walk all the way across the hall to use the restroom.
Food and Dining
On campus you can get food at the dining commons , just below, or student union. If there isn't anything you like there, there is a variety of other places to eat in downtown.
What to do for fun
There are many different clubs to accommodate the interests of many students. You are surely to find something you like. They also offer free yoga classes at the sports club. In downtown there is the movie theater and a couple blocks down is a rock climbing/gym building that is a lot of fun.
Campus Safety
University Police is very easy to get a hold of. There are blue lights located all across campus.

Daisy from Morgan Hill, CA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
The perfect medium between you and your future career, whether it be engineering, business, science, or humanities/arts related. We have a wide range of majors and minors, and amazing professors and teacher assistants that will guide you through your courses. The scenery isn't too bad; our school is currently going through some renovations, but if you keep walking through this campus, you'll see the variety of architecture, flora, squirrels, and students.
Tips for prospective students
Always plan ahead! Spaces for classes are very competitive here, so make sure you sign up for the earliest freshman orientation possible, or do whatever you can to get advanced registration for every semester. Immediately search for the Facebook group of your graduating class - many questions are answered there by your peers and upperclassmen. Over the summer, look for any programs offered by your college because that is exactly how you get a head start on your social life in college!
Academic Rigor
Homework is very reasonable here. It may be tough at times, but you're here to learn and ask questions about everything you need to know. Many classes offer several days to complete assignments, so make sure you leave your procrastination at high school!It is very highly recommended that you visit your professors during their office hours so that you can get one-on-one help (also, they get very lonely in their offices!)
Dorm Life
At SJSU, there are currently six dorming facilities: Joe West, Washburn Hall, Royce Hall, CVA, CVB, and CVC. The Campus Villages (CV) are modeled after suites, meaning that there are smaller rooms within each suite. Depending on how many occupants, there is a shower room; a small kitchen; a two-person bedroom with two desks; a vanity; a bathroom; and a small living room to host your friends! In the bricks (JW, WB, RR), there are several floors filled with two- to three-person bedrooms. These are great to help maintain a close friendship with your roommates. However, the Bricks are infamous for their communal showers - six showerheads for each floor.
Food and Dining
There is an amazing variety of food both in and around San Jose State. If you dorm on campus, you get to enjoy free meals in the Dining Commons - it's included in your housing tuition. Across campus is the new Student Union, housing favorites like Jamba Juice, Taco Bell, Panda Express, and more! There are hundreds of seats and tables there, so you and your friends can host your Last Supper before midterms and finals.
What to do for fun
Several malls are accessible by VTA's LightRail and buses. Walk to your favorite boba drink establishment and partake in karaoke or board games!
Bang for the buck
Students with the transportation sticker on their student IDs get free access to any VTA vehicles!!! Get student discounts around downtown.
Great for these types of students
Highly recommended for International students - we're very diverse here! San Jose State is basically a must for engineering students, since it's located in the heart of the Silicon Valley. We take pride in the amount of students that graduated from here and moved onto Google, Apple, LinkedIn, Facebook, etc. Want to start your own business? Educate yourself to the top at SJSU to create your flourishing ideas!

Kaela from Fairfield, CA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
San Jose State University is a beautiful campus where a person could just sit and hang out with their friends or go downtown where all other students are studying or just talking. SJSU provides a variety of activities including sororities/fraternities, clubs, or just being involved in things on campus put on by other students or RAs. This school pushes you to work hard for what you desire along with has many resources on campus to go to such as the Living Learning Center or the Library where teachers and students provide help for all subjects.
Tips for prospective students
Some tips are to really be involved on campus, it will make your experience so much more fun and you will meet so many new people. Also do not procrastinate because it will come back to haunt you, school work requires more than just doing it overnight. Studying hard and going above and beyond are what can make you stand out in a room full of 300 students and trust me teachers will notice that.
Academic Rigor
Academics are no joke when it comes to college, it is a whole different ballgame from high school. The workload becomes stressful and severe procrastination can cause a person to just feel overwhelmed which is the one thing you want to avoid. The academic level is very high and teachers are pushing you to reach your potential by assigning work that is geared toward each person reaching their future goals and beyond.
Dorm Life
Living in the dorms is one of the best experiences you can receive when going to college. Being able to meet so many different people with a variety of backgrounds and cultures opens your eyes. Even though sometimes roommates may become annoying and do unnecessary things, the fact that you have to live with them all year makes you put your differences aside and resolve the issues directly. It really makes you become independent and the reality that you are truly on your own settles in.
Food and Dining
Food is beyond necessary when it comes to living on campus because it fuels your brain especially when it is finals week. There is a dining hall called the Dining Commons where you can find food from burritos to sushi along with free jamba juice. Although after awhile it does become annoying to eat there because the food is repetitive you always have somewhere else to choose to eat such as the Student Union or other places on campus. Another option is going downtown where there are many restaurants and you will find other students from campus.
What to do for fun
There are a variety of activities that range from joining a sorority/fraternity where a person can meet others with the same interests, clubs that are made for every person's interest, or being able to go downtown to eat, watch movies, or just hanging with friends where you will find most of the people from campus. Yes, there are parties to go to on weekends and activities put on by other students or RA's on campus such as dances or movie nights. You will never have a dull moment when you are on campus at SJSU.
Bang for the buck
In my eyes, paying for college is too much money no matter what school you go to. However SJSU provides plenty of services that can further your education along with that make you realize what your money is being put towards. Being able to access the library, receiving student discounts on concerts held at the event center, and transportation to various locations around the area are only a few things that SJSU provides to make you feel that bang for your buck. Let's just say it is cheaper than going to a university and you basically receive the same things if you would choose to go there.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
SJSU is very old and there is always a tradition where all the students go to a location on campus and they present the homecoming king and queen along with all the football players that are going to lead us to victory. Also there is a chapel on campus where services are held. One of the unique things about SJSU is that we are able to hold concerts on campus throughout the entire year and it is beneficial because students do not have to walk far and they receive discounts.
Great for these types of students
Great for students who are focused on academics or even just being social with others around them. For the type of people who are outgoing and want to live a party life. Also for those who want to be close to home but not too far where you still feel independent and can go home whenever necessary. For those who want to live on a smaller campus and smaller class sizes.
Clubs and Activities
There are too many clubs to even count on campus, literally there is a club for anything a person could possibly think of and if there isn't one there always can be another one added. It can raise your interest in your major or just to fulfill a hobby. You also have the option of becoming an RA where you receive free housing and just watch over underclass men. There are outside dances, movie nights, or even workout sessions all throughout the school year. You will find something that suits you and will enjoy what friendships come about.
Greek Life
Greek life is a big part of SJSU with over twenty different sororities and fraternities there is a place for every person to fit in. If you choose to go greek, you meet so many different people and connect on different levels that can lead to life long friendships. Being able to bond with all these people who have the same interests and are willing to stick by your side no matter what is what most people strive for. It is your choice to join or not but either way you will develop a huge social circle.
Campus Safety
All throughout campus you see many different people since SJSU is an open campus, like most colleges, any person can feel free to walk on campus at any time which can raise awareness. There are campus police that patrol around campus to take anyone to and from somewhere if they do not feel completely safe. All over campus are these blue polls where you just press a button and the campus police will be there to pick you up within minutes. Also if you are somewhere else around San Jose you can call a van service that will come pick you up with no questions asked and drive you all the way back to campus. SJSU wants everyone to be safe and through these services I feel safer than ever.

KalinaA from Riverside, CA

a current student here
2 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
I am currently a freshman at SJSU and This past semester I was enrolled in COMM 20 (Public Speaking), Moral issues, STATS 67, and ENG 1A. I definietly learned a lot in my COMM 20 class. My teacher was serious about what she was teaching and really cared about the students and if they passed or failed. I learned much in my English class too. Much of what I thought was wanted in a typical essay was wrong. In high school they teach you how to write a five paragraph essay if pointless because we do not learn in high school so english 1A definitely weaned me off of the five paragraph essay habit. This is a total of 12 units. The professors are really nice and dedicate their teaching to students who wants to understand the concept and subject. It is a good school for those who are more comfortable with the Semester system!
Am enjoying being here
I absolutely love this school. I am from southern California so it is a while from home. So, if you are the type of person who can not stay away from family and NEED your family, it is possible to go home but for me it was not realistic. This is a great school to learn more about yourself and getting involved. You definitely learn how to manage your time, with friends school work and going out to have fun. There is always an opportunity to do something and it is always up to you to do it.
Bang for the buck
Even though SJSU is a CSU school, it offers more than just a CSU. Its amazing engineering, business, and nursing program prepares students for their career. It has a really great music program and Occupational Therapy program (which is what I'm involved in! )
Tips for prospective students
This is a good school for those who want to get involved. Especially if you live on campus, SJSU makes sure to always have events going and make sure you are in the know, just make sure you pay attention to the posters surrounding you! It offers many different majors, although it is known primarily for its Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Art, Music, and Dance programs. It is very great school. The one bad thing is if you are big on sports and a great fan, you need to work a little to get the crowd going.