FAMU and FSU more equal than previously thought

 

After being a co-op student for the past two years I’m constantly heckled about the differences between FAMU and FSU.

Every first week of the semester at FAMU I get asked which school is easier. This may disappoint some, but both schools are academically equal in my book. 

At FSU the classes are bigger; therefore, the instructors give you less attention. On the other hand, I’ve taken exactly 10 courses in the School of Journalism & Graphic Communication at FAMU and have never been in a class with more than 25 people. It is not until you walk into a class and the professor already knows your name and the history of your work that you realize the difference. 

In contrast, one of my upper-level courses at FSU boasts 180 students. Class sizes this large definitely change how you learn, but not always in a negative way. Professors at FSU encourage independent study. Many majors have open areas in their curriculum for students to receive credits for outside research.

At FAMU the classroom setting is more intimate. The workload is more practical and hands-on. The professors encourage campus involvement to gain real-world experience. They often give extra credit for those who get this experience while enrolled in their class. There are also labs for non-science and non-math courses, something I never experienced at FSU.

Either way, professors at both institutions require quality college-level work from students. I have never encountered an instructor that allowed me to miss class or turn in subpar work without affecting my grade. 

The campus environment is different, but I have never felt like the atmosphere could affect my academics. 

I cannot speak for everyone in every major, because like most of you I’ve heard different majors have different difficulty levels. 

If you want to make the most out of your educational experience stop asking and just do it. No matter what type of higher-education institution you prefer, get a wide range of knowledge. Take your education into your own hands. Create a study group, join a professional organization, complete several internships, write for The Famuan; that’s how you learn. Challenge yourself and get the most from your  professors.