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University of South Carolina-Upstate Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

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

  • 12 out of 13 people found this review useful.

    Detria from Florence, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Academically, I have learned so much this semester. All of my courses were fairly hard, and I anticipated the challenge. I believe a firm education is based resisting the urge to take easy courses.
    Am enjoying being here

    Joining different organizations really helped me meet different people on campus. These people have become my best friends in such a short time. I've really formed a small family and a home away from home.
    Bang for the buck

    I received a healthy amount of financial aid from the university, excluding my academic scholarships. Upstate is definitely worth every penny. I know that I'll leave this institution with professional connects/resources and a useful degree, which will carry me in to my future career.
    Tips for prospective students

    I encourage all freshman planning to attend Upstate to become active in student life. Join at least two or three organizations and be completely devoted. Also, remember to stay focused on academics. Its easy to become distracted with friends and events. At the end of the semester your GPA matters the most.
    Great for these types of students

    If you enjoys to school that isn't too large or too small, this university is perfect for you.

  • 5 out of 5 people found this review useful.

    Brittany from Lyman, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    At Upstate, I have learned so many things about writing papers, how to manage my time, achieving my goals, planning ahead, and how to study for tests and exams.
    Am enjoying being here

    Even though, I commute I love USC Upstate because it's so close to my home. I know that I am safe at Upstate because of the environment. I would enjoy living there if I could find more scholarships to help me do so.
    Bang for the buck

    I believe when you're a student at Upstate you get the bang for your buck because there is a small ratio of student to teachers. You are able to know your teacher on a personal level and they are able to help you while getting to know you. Our teachers care so much about our goals and they want to help you unlike other colleges with 300 students in each classroom.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you park correctly or you WILL get a ticket. Coming to school 10 minutes early, if you commute, isn't a bad idea at all since parking is always an issue at Upstate.

  • 4 out of 4 people found this review useful.

    Kimberly from Columbia

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I have learned a great variety of things. I have been academically prepared for the future for a promising career and mentally coached for independence. The instructors are awesome and they are available whenever you need them.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy Upstate for the academic environment. Socially, however, people tend to stay in their cliques; it's very easy to notice the freshmen. You HAVE to be willing to get to know people for yourself, and not wait for people to come to you all the time. It's not like high school; the upperclassmen are more than willing to help anyone get around or just need some advise. Mostly everyone is friendly, but like I said you have to speak up!
    Bang for the buck

    College anywhere is expensive, but Upstate is reasonable. Their prices definitely math the quality.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you're in high school try to earn college credits in your last years or the summer of your senior year. Look for as many scholarships; www.fastweb.com and www.collegeboard.com is a great site.
    Great for these types of students

    USC Upstate is great for students who prefer smaller classrooms, seeking a nursing degree, educational degree, ROTC, criminal justice, or any type of IT degree. There are many other degrees that's offered here. You can check them out at http://www.uscupstate.edu/academics/default.aspx?id=26472 .

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    KaTrina from Rock Hill, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    i am learning a great amount! Upstate has broadened my insight on college life as a whole. honestly coming straight out of high school i did not have to study a thing.. i quickly realized that college is totally different. i never knew what MLA style was when writing a paper, or what In-text citation was but upstate has taught me all of this.
    Am enjoying being here

    I absolutely love it. From their student life center to the student success center everyone is out to help you succeed. They want you to learn. teachers are actually concerned about your performance in the class and they honestly and sincerely want you to do well. they are always available when you need them. the student teacher ratio is awesome. so if you really need that one on one time with your teacher just request it an you will get it.
    Bang for the buck

    MAKE SURE YOU APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS! they are out there..yes do do have to do a little extra work to find them but they are out there. no college is cheap if that's the case no one would every take out a loan. don't be upset if you end up having to take out a loan either. but if you do aim for the subsidized loans not the unsubsidized one. sub loans are where the government pays your interest. unsubsidized you are paying crazy interest by the time you get out of school
    Tips for prospective students

    Try to make it to every class and do not skip out because it would be your luck that the day you skip out the teacher will have a pop quiz and missing out on that could truly bring you grade down. Try not to procrastinate! that was a major issue of mine. i waited the night before the test to even open the material. trust me that does not do you any good! stay on your teachers good side and make frequent meetings with them, the better they know you the more potential you have to pass the class with at least a B. get involved. there are so many organizations to choose from. remember this isn't high school and the teachers wont just send you outside in the hall. the teacher has the ability to completely withdraw you from their class and never let you come back for the rest of the semester. REMEMBER: YOU ARE PAYIING FOR THIS!
    Great for these types of students

    USC Upstate is a great place for students is you are interested in any type of nursing. they are known because they have the best nursing program in the state of South Carolina.

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Allison from Pauline, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Upstate is a school where you are challenged academically. Everyone thinks that because it is located in Spartanburg that it is an easy school but it not. The Professors challenge you in every way possible, from Religion, to World History to Biology. All of the classes are challenging but give such a reward when you receive an A or a B at the end of the semester! I have learned so much at Upstate. If you are a diligent student who is responsible, studies hard and gives it your best, you will definitely succeed at Upstate!
    Am enjoying being here

    There have been times when Upstate isn't so enjoyable, because it seems like there isn't much to do but if you seek out the groups, you will find lots of groups to join! I am not a part of any groups except one, Teach, but that is because I am involved in many extracurricular activities, outside of school. One thing about Upstate is that it is a commuter school, so it is hard to make it back to all of the nighttime activities and groups that meet. But all in all, I am enjoying myself at Upstate and can not wait to officially become an Alumni! I tell all of my friends that they should consider Upstate as one of their choices, if not the ultimate one because it offers so much! It is not too small but not too big, the professors are great, the activities are great and it is not too far from home!
    Bang for the buck

    I received a full ride to Upstate through Teaching Fellows and the Life Scholarship! If you receive the Life scholarship, it will help pay for most of your schooling, which is great! However, the summer school classes are fairly expensive! That is why I am applying for so many scholarships, to help pay for summer school! But all together, Upstate is at a great price for the great education that you will receive! Financially, I am very happy with Upstate and glad that I chose to go here! You will receive just as good of an education and sometimes better than another University in South Carolina, such as North Greenville, Anderson, Clemson, Furman or Wofford but much cheaper!
    Tips for prospective students

    I would suggest that you make sure that you get involved in some way or another on campus! Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! However, don't get so involved that you put your studies aside. I have had many friends who decided to be lazy, not come to class or do the homework because they thought Upstate was just a community school that they could get way with anything and ended up losing their scholarships! If you manage your time well, you will be able to have fun, make friends, keep your grades up and keep your scholarships!
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great for students who want to go to a smaller school but that is not too small! It is great for students who want to commute or live on campus. It is great for students who want an intimate setting with their peers and with their professors! This school is great for anyone who wants a great education!

  • 2 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Lindsay from Spartanburg, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    College is never easy. But I feel challenged here in such a way that I enjoy. I've learned more at Upstate than I did at the other school I attended. The teachers are always willing to help and are dedicated to student learning. I feel that I will excel in my career due to what I have learned so far at Upstate.
    Am enjoying being here

    I transferred here from a different university the second semester of my freshman year. I was scared about having to readjust to a new school but I found it to be a lot easier here. The atmosphere is so inviting. I was more comfortable getting more involved on campus and immediately started making new friends. I'm now very involved in several campus activities which has definitely been worth my while.
    Bang for the buck

    No college tuition is cheap. But I feel like I am getting my money's worth. I enjoy being on campus everyday and I enjoy all of my classes. The atmosphere alone is worth the money.
    Tips for prospective students

    Come in with an open mind and a goal of getting involved. College is all about putting yourself out there and making a name for yourself. Upstate is the perfect place to start that process.
    Great for these types of students

    If you love a diverse atmosphere and a small,intimate campus, this is the college for you.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Chelsea from Greer, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Great well-rounded school. There's always someone willing to help you out. There are a few select teachers who are incredibly hard and I personally don't suggest you take. There's many options for teachers and class day/times. upstate is great for traditional and non-traditional students. There's lots of activities and ways to become involved. Tutoring is always available.
    Am enjoying being here

    The atmosphere is great. Housing is very nice, so are the directors. don't worry about getting a room mate you don't like. if you don't get along housing with provide a new room mate.
    Bang for the buck

    it is pretty pricey but it is a large school that is very noticed for it's academics.
    Tips for prospective students

    Study!

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Chelsea from Simpsonville, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Small class sizes. Most teachers are easily accessable outside of class times and are willing to help you.
    Am enjoying being here

    While it is a small campus, there are a lot of things to do if you look. CAB holds a lot of student functions and there are so many clubs to join.
    Bang for the buck

    For an average to lower college tuiton price, you are getting a good college experience.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take a tour before you commit.
    Great for these types of students

    People who like small classes and aren't into huge cities.

  • 1 out of 2 people found this review useful.

    Malik from Fort Mill, SC

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

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Kelsey from Summerville, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Academic Rigor

    The classes here are very challenging. If you can get through the Biology and Chemistry courses, you can get through almost any class.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are very nice, especially if you can get a single room.
    Food and Dining

    The food is decent sometimes, but most of the time, I don't really want to eat it.
    What to do for fun

    Go out to the mall, or hang out in the basement Sparty's Den.

  • Anonymous from Spartanburg, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The nursing program is highly rated, but a little bit disorganized. The tuition is reasonable. Most of the professors are challenging, helpful, and want their students to succeed.
    Tips for prospective students

    Take advantage of the many learning resources for students, such as the writing center, the tutoring labs, and the SI programs. Get to know your professors so you are comfortable asking for any needed help.
    Food and Dining

    I have not eaten in the dining hall myself, but have never heard any complaints.
    What to do for fun

    Regarding the school specifically, I cannot answer this because I do not participate in school activities (I'm over 25 with a family). Spartanburg in general, however, has several downtown restaurants; one mall; a couple nearby zoos...it is pretty small, but neighboring Greenville has a lot to do.
    Campus Safety

    We have a campus police department on campus, which is always patrolling (they also write a lot of parking tickets -- just a tip).

  • Marissa from Elkridge, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    Upstate has excellent teachers. Very good school academically, not so much socially. Pretty small schools so it's easy to build relationships with your professors.
    Tips for prospective students

    GET INVOLVED!!! CAB and Impact are some pretty good organizations to join. Also, I recommend staying on campus at least the first year or two, it's a good experience to have.
    Academic Rigor

    USC Upstate has excellent teachers and they are all very skilled in everything they teach. I can honestly say that I took something away from every class whether I have done poorly or not.
    Dorm Life

    They tend to be a little strict on the rules, but for a good cause. Other than that it was a fun experience for me!
    Food and Dining

    The food isn't all that great, there are some good days and then there are some bad days. Which I think its that way at just about any school you go to.
    What to do for fun

    There aren't really many fun things to do on campus. There is the SpringFest and the Rocktoberfest. And then you have your basketball games to attend to but other than that there's really not much to do.
    Bang for the buck

    You definitely get the education you pay for!

  • Aaron from Boiling Springs, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    USC Upstate is an enriched school with many diverse courses. They offer a many different majors. Also, they have an awesome faculty.
    Tips for prospective students

    Even though it is a smaller college, it doesn't mean it is easy. Work hard at your classes.
    Academic Rigor

    The academics are challenging to make sure you get the education you are paying for.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are very nice and they include single person rooms.
    Food and Dining

    The food is as mediocre as one would expect from a cafeteria.
    What to do for fun

    For fun, I hang out with my friends when I am done studying.
    Bang for the buck

    The school's tuition is very much reasonable.
    Great for these types of students

    USC Upstate is great for all types of students. Whether you are looking to join Greek life, or a stay and in your dorm all, the school can fit all needs.
    Greek Life

    USC Upstate has a diverse selection of Greek life.
    Campus Safety

    I always feel safe when I am at school. They have police cars patrolling constantly and they have emergency call boxes all over the campus.

  • Nicole from Taylors, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    At USCS the counselors have been more than helpful. It's a small campus and easy to find your way around! The classes sizes are small which works better for me towards a learning environment.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't take it lightly college is no easy task. It takes hard work and dedication.
    Academic Rigor

    Academic Rigor at USCS makes it very easy to get established.
    Dorm Life

    The dorms are as nice as hotels if not nicer! Very fancy and clean.
    Food and Dining

    The cafe is great! Always clean and great food! There is also a sub place and soups/sandwich and salad place!
    What to do for fun

    Downtown Spartanburg is amazing! We have a fun mall and tons of shopping malls! We are about 15 mins from Gaffney outlets!

  • Keisha J. from Richburg, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    USC-Upstate is a great school. Everyone is friendly and welcoming. The faculty and staff really take pride in doing all they can to help students with anything they need.
    Tips for prospective students

    Be prepared to have fun while learning.
    Academic Rigor

    They have great academics.
    Dorm Life

    Dorms are new and clean. All RA's are friendly and you can go to them about anything and they will help you.
    Food and Dining

    The Caf or dining hall has really great food.
    What to do for fun

    There are a lot of on-campus activities that are really fun and you can meet a lot of people.

  • Rochelle from Georgetown, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    this college is great if you want small class sizes and is surrounded by plenty places to eat and other colleges. on campus housing is very reliable and affordable. financial aid is a hassle to get in touch with but overall this school is the best!
    Tips for prospective students

    make sure you come in with a leveled head, study, apply for a lot of scholarships. also there will be a lot of parties going on so make sure to be able to balance your time partying with academics or whatever else you are trying to do. also please take university 101!!! <--- best class you will have your whole freshman year!!! =)
    Academic Rigor

    the teachers push you hard and what you to be your best. the science classes are strenuous and require alot of time to study. there are plenty of aids and tutoring if you are struggling in certain classes.
    Dorm Life

    make sure to have a contract made up with roommates for an agreement on things. dorm life is great no problems with anything. would advise storage systems to help organize stuff. double room and single rooms are large enough to accommodate everyone.
    Food and Dining

    cafe food is somewhat good on certain days but there is alot of variety to choose from. on campus dining places are there to use with spartan points so when your on the run to class, you can just stop and pick up something or just get a snack.
    What to do for fun

    there is always something going on campus so always mark your calendar. join clubs so you have things to do on the weekend. also have school spirit and delve into something different, it will make things more enjoyable.
    Bang for the buck

    this school maybe a bit pricey but the academics make up for everything.
    Great for these types of students

    who want a challenge , small class sizes, wanting to be apart of it all and know whats going on
    Clubs and Activities

    join clubs!
    impact, cab, etc. they will get you ready to experience more things in later years and help you meet new people.
    Greek Life

    some over power the other, the step shows are great so our greek life is a must see and they always have things going on throughout campus.
    Campus Safety

    police and maintenance are on call all the time so no need to fret.

  • William from Greer, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    a good school in the upstate of south carolina. good teachers small class size and a good degree to use in the real world.
    Tips for prospective students

    check out the campus to see if you think it is the right fit for you.
    Academic Rigor

    do the work and you will pass.
    Dorm Life

    i'm a commuter
    Food and Dining

    there are several places to get food on campus and downtown spartanburg is right down the street with many resturants.
    What to do for fun

    downtown greenville is better than spartanburg, but there a fun things to do within driving distance.
    Bang for the buck

    good education for the price!
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    the hodge center is a blast at basketball games!
    Great for these types of students

    who want an education.
    Clubs and Activities

    greek life and good clubs and activites for education and nursing students.
    Greek Life

    yes pick one.
    Campus Safety

    safe.

  • Elissa from Westminster, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    upstate is a good school with strong academic policies. the professors are helpful for the most part. the campus is well cared for and is a tobacco free campus, which means no smoking on campus unless in a vehicle with windows all the way closed.
    Tips for prospective students

    apply early, especially for financial aid, it goes very fast. if you transfer in, learn the different academic policies here and the different expectations.
    Academic Rigor

    good academic rigor. they try to challenge the students, not just let them off easily.
    Dorm Life

    there are suite style dorms for upper classmen, along with apartments (the villas). freshmen are required to live in the normal dorm layout building with shared floor bathrooms.
    Food and Dining

    great choices, multitude of small restaurant like places to eat around campus, along with normal dining services. a certain amount of spartan bucks comes with each meal plan that can be used at the other eateries around campus.
    Clubs and Activities

    great selection of clubs and easy process for creating new ones.

  • Rowena from Spartanburg, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    I was pleasantly surprised by the new Health Education Complex, the building in which I take the majority of my classes. Also, the nursing faculty is very friendly, helpful and welcoming. It's a stark contrast with the professors I've encountered at Spartanburg Community College.
    Tips for prospective students

    Transfer students should attend the earliest orientation they are able. You cannot register for your classes until you attend an orientation, and transfer students are the last in line to pick their classes. This can be frustrating, so try to attend orientation as soon as you make up your mind to attend.
    Academic Rigor

    Some classes are easy and pointless while some are challenging and completely worth your time and money.
    Dorm Life

    I've never lived on campus, since I live in Spartanburg. It makes most sense for those who live in the area to commute to class to save money. The dorm life doesn't seem very exciting.
    Food and Dining

    I don't know. I don't ever eat on campus
    What to do for fun

    Get involved in some student organizations. Spartanburg itself is a small, boring city, but it can be fun if you are involved in extracurriculars with other similar minded students and young people.

  • Alexandria from Cayce, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Not only do you learn from your professors, but you learn from your peers as well and they learn from you. You can tell all of the professors have a passion for everything they do, which kind of makes you passionate about the things you do and love. At Upstate you're constantly learning inside and outside the classroom.
    Am enjoying being here

    Choosing Upstate is one of the best decisions I could have possibly made. The students are nice and loving. Everyone looks out for each other and helps when someone needs it. Upstate is like a huge family. Most Professors have an open door policy and so does the RA's which helps a lot. There's always something fun happening on campus to help you find yourself and know new people.
    Bang for the buck

    No matter which college or university you decide to go to it's always going to be expensive. Here at Upstate you definitely get more for the money. Not only do you have wonderful dorm rooms, a beautiful campus and wonder people, you also have a lifetime of memories that's waiting to happen.
    Tips for prospective students

    Make sure you always attend class. Study hard. One of my professors always said that college is about three things 1. Having fun 2. Doing your work 3. knowing when to do 1 and 2. Try to sit a different table with new people once a week, that will allow you to make new friends. Also, try to join at least one organization that you feel passionate about. And always remember there's no Upstate without U!
    Great for these types of students

    Someone who is waiting to burst of their shell, eager to meet new people and ready to learn.

  • Cody from Campobello, SC

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    USC Upstate professors are knowledgeable and generally willing to help any student in a time of academic strife. The classes are relatively challenging but comparatively, it's not as instructionally renowned as it could be.
    Am enjoying being here

    Although I am merely a commuting student, I do enjoy campus live every once in a while and the overall atmosphere is wonderful. Initially, I'd planned to attend Upstate for a year or two and then transfer elsewhere, but I have no doubts that Upstate is my college of choice for graduation.
    Bang for the buck

    As any reviewer will tell you, college is not a cheap journey. However, Upstate is remarkably reasonable in their tuition rates and is very much so a bang for the buck.
    Tips for prospective students

    Join an organization or two and get to know your professors. It truly is the community experience that makes college memories long-lasting. Plus, your professors can be paramount later in life when you're going to require recommendations and praises.
    Great for these types of students

    USC Upstate is great for a student who isn't seeking a wild city life style of college, and absolutely perfect for anyone who is legitimately interested in furthering their academic success.

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