Please type at least the first 4 letters of the school name.

Sonoma State University Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

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

  • 5 out of 6 people found this review useful.

    Julia from Loomis, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors at Sonoma State will definitely challenge you to learn more and expand your horizons. Granted, you may run into one or two who are not exactly stellar professors, and you may get a few that are just plain difficult, but overall, the professors are willing to work with you and help you learn all you can. Not only are the professors really good, but the class sizes are generally nice and small. If you are planning on sitting in the back and snoozing during class, I wouldn't recommend it unless you want the professor to know that you could care less about their class because they will know you by name. The small class sizes make it really great for getting to know your professors really well, which is a big plus for you when you want to really get to know professors in your major.
    Am enjoying being here

    Sonoma is an absolutely beautiful campus. If you love a semi-coastal environment with foggy fall/winter mornings, then you will love it here. not to mention that almost the entire campus is filled with trees, grass, and green in general. Sonoma is also nice and small, enabling you to walk from one side of campus to the other in the space of about fifteen minutes, so you really don't need a car unless you plan on living off campus.
    Bang for the buck

    While Sonoma is a CSU campus, and therefore less expensive than some other colleges you could go to, it is still one of the most expensive in the CSU system. So, if you're looking for something that costs less than around $20,000 a year, Sonoma might be a bit out of your price range unless you get a nice scholarship package. Also, tuition has been increased due to the budget crisis in California, and it will most likely be going up again.
    Tips for prospective students

    Study hard! Sonoma has a $1,000 Presidential Scholarship at entry for those students who have a 4.0 GPA from the second semester of their freshman year of high school through the first half of their senior year. And as long as you keep a 3.8 GPA throughout your semester at Sonoma, the scholarship is renewed every year. Also, I would recommend mixing your GE classes in with you major classes, as that will make your class load more bearable.
    Great for these types of students

    If you are a motivated student who enjoys getting to know your professors, are looking for a liberal arts education, and you don't like a really large, bustling school, Sonoma State would probably be a great choice for you.

  • 3 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Cassie From San Francisco, CA

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I am planning to major in Criminal Justice and minor in psychology and they have really good programs for both of them. The classes are small (about only 20-30) with some classes as big as 80. I like that the classes are small enough for me to get personal attention from the professers and I won't feel overwhelmed.
    Will enjoy being here

    Being from a big city, I am already used to and accustomed to the city life. I like that Sonoma is part of a small, quiet community and different from the busy, bustling city. Because it is in wine country it smells like cow manure, but you will get used to it like I did. In addition to clubs and activities around school there is a lot to do outside such as bowling, lazer tag, shopping, etc. The housing is also really nice and the weather is usually sunny and warm. Oh, and you can have a car as freshman, a big plus.
    Bang for the buck

    College now a days in general is expensive, and Sonoma state costs roughly about $20,000-$21,000. If you try to get scholarships, grants, and apply for your FAFSA ahead of time, I'm sure you can get at least half of your tuition and fees paid off.
    Tips for prospective students

    -I would try and check out the school and as many schools that you are interested in.
    -Research your major/minor and programs and see if the school has a good reputation
    -Keep your grades up!
    -Always check your Sonoma State online portal to make sure you meet all the deadlines
    -Make a pro/con list of each school you visit and make your decision for you.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Elizabeth from Vacaville, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    As a music education major, I am taking six music classes my first semester. The teachers seemed to want me to get into the classes I need and sat down with my for over an hour, one-on-one, to help me get the education I need. I'm in 3 general education class. I have no problem getting classes and the teachers care about my education. They are very helpful at office hours. While they make learning easy, you have to do your fair share too.
    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is beautiful. The buildings are new and made of reusable materials. The dorms are spacious. The food is great! I love the fresh air. The brand new music building is so nice. There are lots of things to do on campus. I am very happy here!
    Bang for the buck

    I wish the dorms cost less, but it is relatively cheaper than living off campus. The cost of education is cheap, but is high quality.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take a tour, you will fall in love.
    Great for these types of students

    Looking for an education first, social life second.

  • 2 out of 3 people found this review useful.

    Nicholas from Concord, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The best part of Sonoma by far is the teaching staff. All of the professors are informative and accommodating; they are more than willing to meet with you outside class if you are having any sort of problems with the subject material. My largest class was an intro to psychology, and it was 80 students. All other classes have been 20-30, which really helps you form a bond with the professor.
    Am enjoying being here

    This school has one of the most gorgeous campuses I have seen, the greenery is abundant and well cared for. The living accommodations are second to none in my opinion, and anything you could ever want is on the Rohnert Park Expressway.
    Bang for the buck

    The CSU system has been hit hard in recent times due to the economic turmoil in the state of California, but it is hard to beat a federally subsidized education. A comparable education at a private school would be at least double the cost.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be afraid to talk to your professors, they don't bite! They are always willing to help you understand outside class, it is their job and they love to teach. Stay on top of your work as well, 5 lengthy deadlines quickly turns into 5 massive assignments the next week so spend your time wisely.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who enjoy small class sizes and speaking up during class, as well as students who enjoy having a personal relationship with their professors. You won't get away with missing a class, more often than not they will contact you in some may. My Education professor called me when I missed class due to illness!

  • 1 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Morgan from Rocklin, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I learn SO much in my music classes! I have improved in my singing so much, and I'm looking forward to being in Psychology classes next year - including a class on the psychology behind Myths, Dreams, and Symbols!
    Am enjoying being here

    I LOVE it at SSU. Everyone's friendly and understanding, and the classes are actually interesting.
    Bang for the buck

    These classes are amazing and FUN! And the dorms are exquisite!! I can't wait to live in the brand-new dorms next year!
    Tips for prospective students

    Take AP classes! They come in handy when you need to fulfill your G.E.'s and you have classes you WANT to take instead.
    Great for these types of students

    SSU is great for students who want a smaller campus, and who love scenery. It's also great for Music Majors, as we're just finishing an AMAZING Music Hall.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Samantha from Monrovia, CA

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    I hear that their nursing program is fantastic!
    Will enjoy being here

    Hour from the beach and hour from the city. Its perfect.
    Bang for the buck

    Compared to places like APU or USC, you save over 10 to 20 thousand dollars a year.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Aaron from Moorpark, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Classes are small, teachers are wonderful, and there is something for everybody at SSU.
    Am enjoying being here

    I am loving every second of college years here.
    Bang for the buck

    Do some comparison shopping and see if you can find a better deal. You will be hard pressed to.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take a tour of Sonoma State. Also, having some AP credit from high school will make your life a lot easier.
    Great for these types of students

    Self motivated students will have a hard time not succeeding at Sonoma State.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Student @ SSU

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I like most of my GE classes and can't wait to start my upper division course work. The class sizes are nice. They range from 20-200 people.
    Am enjoying being here

    The campus is beautiful. It is not too large. I really enjoy the duck pond, butterfly garden, and the creek on campus.
    Bang for the buck

    With cuts and fees going up it can be difficult to get the classes you need. Also the scholarship program here is not very good. Expect to do a lot of scholarship research on your own!
    Tips for prospective students

    The food hours on campus aren't too great! If you are living on campus, a dorm with a kitchen would be good.
    Great for these types of students

    Sorority girls

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Marissa from Rio Vista, CA

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

    Categories Rating Comments
    Will learn a lot

    My major is Psychology and overall the Psychology Department is well rounded and very helpful to its incoming undergraduates. The school overall seems this way also
    Will enjoy being here

    The area it is in is beautiful. I could not ask for a better campus or atmosphere. It is almost indescribable and you really just need to visit to see what I mean. Also the dorms are above and beyond and well worth the money.
    Bang for the buck

    Compared to other CSU's and UC's, Sonoma really seems to provide you the most for less. If you look up their dorms online you'll see what I mean.
    Tips for prospective students

    Visit the campus!
    Great for these types of students

    Students who are introvert to extrovert. If you like to be near San Francisco and want a great college experience and education.

  • 0 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Student from Redondo Beach, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    This school has some of the best teachers that really want to get involved in your academic career and they want to see you be successful.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy being here because I came up with a lot of friends and that ahs also been a good experience. The school has a beautiful and enjoyable campus.
    Bang for the buck

    You get what you pay for. The school facilities are mostly new and they have great service. The on campus gym is great. The clubs and other activities are fantastic.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure to have a plan when you get there and know what you want to major in. Also go and get a guidance counselor in your major asap and get advise on classes from them.
    Great for these types of students

    Who can deal with living in a somewhat small city but being about 45 minutes away from San Fran is pretty nice.

  • 3 out of 9 people found this review useful.

    Tori from Sierra Madre, CA

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

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Riccelle from Irvine, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Sonoma State University as a whole has been a great experience for me, but only because I made it that way. It is a beautiful campus, but lacks your general campus lifestyle due to lack of community and student involvement. I found my niche in the Sonoma State Art department and have developed a network of professors, mentors, and friends.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you plan on attending this university I suggest trying to find a similar niche, because no one I knew freshman year continued their education without one. There are many opportunities for finding your network if you get out and find one! Mine just happens to be in the art department, but there are many other options in all majors if you stay involved with them. A lot of students at Sonoma State just don't take the initiative to do so.
    Academic Rigor

    The classes at Sonoma State are easy depending on your high-school education. I went to a college preparatory school so college has been considerably easier than high school for me. However, I know others have struggled with those oh-so irritating General Education required courses. However, I will not dumb-down my art professors. They have been a true blessing in my college experience and I've learned so much from them. I'm sure it is the same in other majors once you get further along in your degree.
    Dorm Life

    The Sonoma State dormitories are really nice! All brand new appliances and facilities for the most part, but even the less-expensive housing communities are overly accommodating. It's like living in a 4-star hotel! However, if you're looking for that party scene, you're going to have to take it off-campus. Sonoma State monitors their facilities closely, and will not hesitate to kick you out without giving your deposit back if you are caught just once with bulk alcohol/other substances.
    Food and Dining

    Rohnert Park has actually been criticized in northern California dining reviews as having the worst selection and quality of restaurants in the state. However, Oliver's Market, El Rancho Taqueria, and Mike's Sourdough sandwiches will save your taste buds while you're in school.
    What to do for fun

    When I was in my pre-21 years, there were surprisingly a lot of things to do that I still love to do today. The campus Recreational Center has a rock climbing wall which offers free lessons. There are a lot of great hiking spots and places to go camping(you can also rent out camping gear from the Rec Center). In the nearby cities Petaluma and Santa Rosa there are weekly music shows and art events. I always look forward to the Hand-Car Regatta every year(which was founded by Sonoma State students). There are also events in Cotati every now and then like the state-famous Accordion Festival where well-acclaimed accordion players gather and play music. Once you turn 21 you'll find that Sonoma State is in the center of wine country! Take a beautiful drive throughout the county and go taste some great wines! You'll find the Cotati Crawl pretty easily too! It's a strip of bars in Cotati where all the students go to have some fun after all those semi-harsh studying hours during the week.
    Bang for the buck

    Lagunitas Brewery is my favorite brewery of all time! There are brewery tours M-F for free starting at 3pm. They offer you 6 very generous free tastings of their delicious IPA brews, which they all brew right there. After some great Lagunitas story telling from the very charismatic tour guide Louis, you will stumble through the brewery and see how they do things. Careful of the Gnarley Wine!
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Some events that go unnoticed at Sonoma State are the Music Department shows and the Art Gallery openings. The Music Department has monthly music shows which show off their very talented students! The Art Gallery has four openings a semester for various visiting artists and student shows which serve free wine and food at every opening. These events are a great way to have a good time, just when the campus seems it's a little un-lively.
    Great for these types of students

    Sonoma State is great for students who either know what they want to do, or have the initiative to figure it out. As I warned you earlier, the campus lacks a strong community and most students find their own smaller group of friends. Sonoma State does have Greek Life and other opportunities to get involved, you just have to go out and try! There is also a large liberal community in Sonoma State, so watch out republicans! If you can't deal with seeing hippies and artsy folk, probably not the best school for you.
    Clubs and Activities

    Sonoma State does have clubs, but the most active on-campus organizations are Associated Student Incorporation(or student council), and Greek Life. You will find clubs in your major, but they probably will meet off-campus to discuss how to fund certain activities for your club. For instance, I am in Painting club and we were able to put on art shows throughout every semester for painters in the Sonoma State Art Department. The campus also has a great study abroad center! I'll bet you didn't know tuition to study abroad stays the same for Cal State students? Well if that is something you're interesting in go check it out in the International Programs office and Marissa will help you out with everything! I know I'll never regret my year abroad in Florence, Italy!
    Greek Life

    There is a large Greek Life at Sonoma State consisting of 13 fraternities and sororities. About 500 students out of 9,000 are in Greek Life, which may not seem like much, but trust me when you're walking around campus to go to class, or getting a coffee at Charlie Brown's, you'll notice the sweatshirts, tote-bags, and 'What's up bro!' at almost every turn you make. However, not all of them are only dedicated to partying, there are some that are actually all about giving back to the community. So if you're not all about the party, but more about creating a community for yourself, it is possible!
    Campus Safety

    I'm sorry to say that though the occurrences are rare, there have been incidences on campus that are cause for concern. This past semester alone two girls fell victim to rape in their dorms. There was a home-made bomb thrown into one of the dorms living areas. Lucking no one was hurt from the latter, but it is still something to be mentioned. The school does have an on-campus police station, but sometimes they just aren't fast enough. So be careful about walking alone late at night, especially if your a girl. But I personally have never been in a position where I felt unsafe.

  • Jessica from San Ramon, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    A beautiful campus with small class sizes. Professors are able to build personal relationships with students. Campus is small so students are more of a community.
    Tips for prospective students

    Join clubs, teams, organizations, and etc. It is important to get involved in school activities so they do not feel bored. The school has so much to offer, but if you sit around and do not get involved it will be harder to build relationships with others.
    Academic Rigor

    There isn't too much pressure on students academically.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms at Sonoma are unlike any other school. They have more of an apartment style of living that is unlike any other state school that I have seen.
    Food and Dining

    There are many food options on campus and the choices are healthy.
    What to do for fun

    There are many intramural teams as well as clubs.
    Greek Life

    Greek life is huge on campus. There are many fraternities and sororities.
    Campus Safety

    This campus is extremely safe, police are present constantly.

  • Andrea from Folsom, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Where many California State universities are large commuter school, Sonoma State provides a more intimate setting. Class sizes are small to average which allows for better teacher-student interaction and there are plenty of clubs and activities to join. Professors and faculty have been a great help in my academic success and they are always willing to sit and discuss any issues a students might have.
    Tips for prospective students

    Use all the resources! Financial aid, office department staff, admissions office staff...they are all waiting and willing to help you earn admittance to SSU!
    Academic Rigor

    Of the professors I have encountered, they all expect you to learn. Professors expect a lot and are eager to push you academically.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are amazing! They are large in size, equipped with appliances and are located in a community area!
    Food and Dining

    There are several food options located on campus that provide tasty meals in between classes. My only complaints would be that not all dining areas are open past four o'clock and there is a lack of ethnic foods available on campus. However, only a mile down the road there is a great supermarket with lots of delicious food!
    What to do for fun

    There are loads of clubs and activity groups on campus. The recreation center provides dance and exercise classes, along with rock climbing walls and a heated outdoor pool. Outside of campus, there are state parks that are excellent for bike riding and hiking. The ocean is relatively close by. San Francisco is about one hour away.
    Bang for the buck

    Tuition is currently high, however that is a state issues, not the sole fault of SSU. However, the small campus feeling provides a huge, positive affect on the academic experience.

  • MMS, California

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Sonoma State University is a great college for anyone looking for a close community and a liberal arts education. SSU is a fairly new campus, therefore the facilities are exceptional, such as the new Recreation Center and the currently under construction Student Union. Though small, the people on campus are very friendly and there are many opportunities to get involved socially, academically, and professionally.
    Tips for prospective students

    Because Sonoma State is such a small school, it's very important to get involved as much as possible! Whether it be through Snow Club, joining a Fraternity/Sorority, or holding Student Government positions, a student's happiness at SSU solely revolves around on campus involvement.
    Academic Rigor

    Because class sizes are rather small, most classes require both attendance and participation. This forces students to become attentive both inside and outside the classroom.
    Dorm Life

    Student living on campus is incredible! The 'worst' dorm is a suite consisting of two bedrooms, a full bathroom, and living room. There are no halls which allows for a much more private dorm life. Student on-campus residential buildings are very close-knit communities which helps bring an easy away-from-home transition to Freshmen.
    Food and Dining

    The Cafeteria serves a very diverse menu of food ranging from Cereal to Salmon with Mango Salsa; however, always check the menu before you commit to eating there! Ameci's, Charlie Brown's, and The Pub are other dining venues on campus which offer a variety of foods such as pizza, sandwiches, and smoothies.
    What to do for fun

    There are many different options for fun on campus! Activities range from Jello Wars to Greek Dances. Off campus, there is not much to do; however, most students prefer the activities happening on campus anyways because they are always fun and different from the last!
    Bang for the buck

    Sonoma State is a state university so it is fairly reasonably priced! Tuition is very cheap for the amazing classes offered! The housing options, both on campus and off campus, are decently priced as well keeping the overall cost of attendance very low and well worth it to attend SSU.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Something very unusual about Sonoma State is that in the middle of campus, there is a large statue of bacon and eggs!
    Great for these types of students

    Sonoma State is great for any student looking to get involved socially and/or academically!
    Clubs and Activities

    Sonoma State University thrives on student involvement which is why there are so many amazing Clubs and activities! Clubs range anywhere from Vampire club to Rugby Club. Activities are always happening on campus thanks to Residential Student Association and other campus organizations.
    Greek Life

    Greek life at Sonoma is huge! Although there are no Greek houses, the fraternities and sororities are amazing! The Greek community is extremely close and always hosts wonderful events like dances, philanthropy events, and other fun things for students!
    Campus Safety

    Sonoma State is a very safe school! Since it's rather small in size, campus police are always close and easy to get to! There are always Community Service Advisors that walk around campus at night time to ensure safety for students.

  • Gabriella from Santa Rosa, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    SSU has a beautiful campus. The weather is always changing. There are many activities on and off campus.
    Tips for prospective students

    Join a club if you're having a hard time making friends. Have a car, because you'll get bored sitting in your dorm. Don't be shy in class, professors like students who respond and ask questions in class.
    Academic Rigor

    It depends on the classes you're taking. Some are really difficult, and some aren't.
    Dorm Life

    If you like a clean tidy room, make sure you get a single. You'll most likely have messy roommates.
    Food and Dining

    It has a variety, but is a little expensive. It has a delicious cafe called Charlie Browns.
    What to do for fun

    There is a movie theater just 10 minutes away and a bowling alley same distance. Also there is always something fun going on on campus.
    Bang for the buck

    Of course a CSU will be way cheaper than a UC; however everything is getting more expensive. Ask family members to send you money or get a job, and spend it wisely.
    Great for these types of students

    Students who are looking for a smaller, more quiet campus, but not too quit. Very liberal ideology.
    Clubs and Activities

    SSU has an awesome Greek Life! It is very safe.
    Greek Life

    Super fun. Almost everyone who wants to join will get invited to join one of the chapters.
    Campus Safety

    The campus police are always there to help you, if you need it.

  • Pam from Lakeport, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Excellent educational atmosphere, terrific professors, wonderful course selections. Would recommend this school to anyone.
    Tips for prospective students

    do not overload yourself, start out with nine units until you are used to the workload.
    Academic Rigor

    no shortcuts here. lots of work.
    Dorm Life

    live off campus..
    Food and Dining

    dining halls in each dormitory building
    What to do for fun

    no time, too much work
    Bang for the buck

    wish I could live on campus, save on travel and gas
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    live off campus
    Great for these types of students

    it is a young peoples campus
    Clubs and Activities

    lots of them
    Greek Life

    lots of clubls
    Campus Safety

    excellent

  • Brittany from San Francisco, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    quiet a very small community. nice classroom sizes where you can actually get to know you professor. you have a good amount of free time. the gym is very nice, and they have free rock climbing.
    Tips for prospective students

    not very diverse, but great class sizes
    Academic Rigor

    great teaching
    Dorm Life

    the dorms are great they are like living in an apartment.
    Food and Dining

    they have good restauraunts on campus the cafeteria is ok.
    What to do for fun

    bowling is free on thursdays, movie theater, and go to the gym free rock climbing
    Great for these types of students

    who like small class room sizes, and a quiet relaxing area.
    Clubs and Activities

    they have tons of clubs.
    Greek Life

    alot of greek life on campus

  • Arielle from Beverly Hills, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    sonoma state university is a pro-environment campus that focuses on the important issue of sustainability.
    the ration between the student and the professor is very small, as every student gets close attention.
    there are many ways for a student to shine in sonoma state university through involvement in clubs, affiliations, and other volunteer opportunities.
    Tips for prospective students

    get involved!
    Academic Rigor

    since the ratio between the professor and the students is very small, every student is able to get the attention and help in order to succeed. depending on each class, the rate of rigor varies.
    Dorm Life

    the dorms are spacious, beautiful and comfortable. the environment is clean and fresh.
    Food and Dining

    the cafeteria food is pretty good, there are different types of foods every night, for example, there is indian night, and then there is chinese night. the chefs make food for vegetarians and meat eaters.
    What to do for fun

    if a student is involved, then that program or club will instantly fill up the student's time. although the campus is fairly small and quiet, people are friendly and through clubs and such, a social life is possible.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    there is the russian lake on campus, which is beautiful. there are ducks in it, and you can go sit on the bench and watch the lake, and even feed the ducks.
    Great for these types of students

    students who like nature, laid back, and a low key lifestyle.
    Clubs and Activities

    there are various and many clubs on campus, from cooking club to tennis club, there is a club for every interest.
    Greek Life

    joining the greek life is a great way of getting involved around campus and having a social life.
    Campus Safety

    very safe campus. there is a police station on the campus, and they assure that it is safe and sound.

  • Student from Santa Rosa, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    knowledgeable instructors, significant amount of busywork, over-priced food given the quality, good resources but classes are being limited for funding reasons.
    Tips for prospective students

    talk to a professor from your chosen department rather than a counselor because they know more. don't assume you'll be able to get the classes you need. join the club relevant to your major because you can find seniors and other experienced students there who know the ins and outs of the department.
    Academic Rigor

    loads of busywork regardless of department (though some professors are more reasonable than others). as a four-year university, the administration and teachers don't assume you'll go anywhere else so the quality of education is a bit retarded by this assumption. for the most part, don't expect a berkeley-level education here (again, some instructors are exceptions to the rule). as a smaller out-of-the-way university however, there are some resources available to certain departments that other universities cannot match. check out the department and take a tour before signing anything!
    Dorm Life

    didn't live on campus but a lot of classmates did and they didn't have any unreasonable complaints. if anything, they tended to think that the dorms were pretty decent.
    Food and Dining

    only two decent places to eat on campus and both are over-priced. the commons is tiny and the food there is terrible. save your money and eat off campus if you must, but it's better to brown-bag it. plus, you can buy beer on tap at the pub but it closes by 5pm.
    What to do for fun

    there is always some frat or soror house throwing a party if you're into that and there's usually some cheap comedic or theatre venue. the gym is always open and they have classes regularly.
    Bang for the buck

    certainly more reasonable than other schools price-wise but classes can fill up quickly and new ones aren't opened to accommodate the students who need them.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    the rooster got killed by racoons a few years back so no, not anymore.
    Great for these types of students

    someone who has parents to pay for them to miss classes so they can take that all-important cycling class at the gym.
    Clubs and Activities

    there is a club for every group imaginable. and they all do activities. it varies.
    Greek Life

    you see them everywhere during the first few weeks with their megaphones and fliers and then they blissfully disappear. don't know where they go and don't really care. besides, they ignore you if you look even slightly intelligent.
    Campus Safety

    this campus is very safe. there are panic alert button kiosks everywhere, there is ample lighting on the main walkways, and the campus police are very reliable and patrol regularly. the only time a rape is reported is when a girl brings a guy back to her dorm after a frat/soror party and the bookstore has only been held up twice in the last year. there was a scare a few years ago when someone was spotted on campus with a rifle but the cops took their time to check it out (only five minutes) because it turned out to be fake.

  • Lidia from Lancaster, CA

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    what sonoma state lacks in diversity in alumni, makes up for it with the quality of their staff and courses. the professors are what make my experience enjoy able, because the are very unique not just personality wise but in their teaching methods, the also like to interact with students and are approachable. the courses which are very exciting in my perspective, because they are courses that take me out of my comfort zone, but allow you to get comfortable at your own pace, which makes me excited to join classes.
    Tips for prospective students

    sign up for classes the you've never thought of taking. the fact that we offer a variety of courses allows us to gain different perspective. second make sure to take the time to attend office hours, or si session for extra help.
    Dorm Life

    it'd be better if we had some sort of survey we can take, in order to see how we can be compatible with others. the roommates are picked at random
    What to do for fun

    there isn't a lot to do for fun here, you'd have to go out of the city, in order to find fun places to be.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    one unusual tradition is our annual seawolf howl, were all students take a few second to simply howl.
    Greek Life

    it's very common, and mostly seen all over campus, i'm not interested in at all.
    Campus Safety

    we have officers taking rounds around the school, which makes students feel protected.

Powered By Cappex.com