Appalachian State University is a public university located in Boone, North Carolina. Founded in 1899, Appalachian State University is part of the University of North Carolina system. It is a medium-sized university with a total enrollment of approximately 20,000 students, including about 18,000 undergraduates and 2,000 graduate students. In this essay, we will discuss the pros and cons of Appalachian State University.
Pros:
Location: Appalachian State University is located in Boone, which is a beautiful small town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is surrounded by a stunning natural landscape, and offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, and fishing. Students have access to a unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
Academics: Appalachian State University is known for its strong academic programs, especially in the fields of education, business, and health sciences. The university offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, which allows for more personalized attention from professors.
Sustainability: Appalachian State University is a leader in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university has implemented a number of sustainability initiatives, including a campus-wide recycling program, a bike share program, and LEED-certified buildings.
Student life: Appalachian State University has a vibrant student life, with more than 300 student clubs and organizations. The university also has a strong athletics program, with 20 NCAA Division I sports teams.
Affordable: Appalachian State University is relatively affordable for both in-state and out-of-state students. In-state tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are $7,518 per year, while out-of-state tuition and fees are $22,217 per year.
Cons:
Parking: Parking can be a challenge at Appalachian State University, especially during peak times. Some students may find that they have to park far from their classes or dorms, which can be inconvenient.
Limited graduate programs: While Appalachian State University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, the university has a relatively limited selection of graduate programs. Some students may find that they are unable to find a graduate program that meets their needs.
Housing: Appalachian State University requires freshmen and sophomore students to live on campus, but housing can be expensive and difficult to secure. Some students may find that they are placed in less-desirable housing options.
Limited cultural offerings: While Boone is a charming small town, it may not offer as many cultural offerings as some larger cities. Students interested in cultural events or nightlife may find themselves wanting more.
Weather: The weather in Boone can be a challenge for some students. The town has a mountain climate, with cold winters and mild summers. This can be difficult for students who are not used to this type of weather.
Conclusion:
Overall, Appalachian State University is a strong academic institution with a number of pros and cons. The university is known for its beautiful location, strong academics, commitment to sustainability, vibrant student life, and affordability. However, students should be aware of the parking and housing challenges, limited graduate programs, potentially limited cultural offerings, and challenging weather. Despite these challenges, many students have found Appalachian State University to be a rewarding and fulfilling place to pursue their academic and personal goals.
