Imagine a university experience where your classroom extends beyond four walls, where each day starts with the possibility of adventure just outside your door. We’re not just talking about ponds and parks — we’re talking mountain trails and breathtaking vistas waiting to be explored by learners who live and breathe the outdoors.
That’s what a Colorado State University (CSU) education is all about. Recently listed as one of Money magazine’s Best Colleges in America, CSU is located in the heart of Fort Collins, which offers students an unparalleled location for both study and play. With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking and biking trails just minutes from campus. Whether it’s the vibrant colours of fall or the crisp winter air, the region’s four seasons bring a year-round dynamism that keeps life exciting.
And when you crave a change of pace, the lively Fort Collins community greets you with a perfect mix of small-town charm and the energy of Denver’s city life, just a quick drive down the road. This unique setting makes CSU a perfect place to both live and learn.`
It is one of the main reasons Phalya Gudipudi, a BS Biomedical Sciences student from India, chose this university. ‘It’s a beautiful campus with a very relaxing environment and many great spots to hang out with friends,’ she says. ‘With the Rocky Mountains so close, many outdoor activities are possible. We regularly go on hikes and drives since there are many nearby trails and scenic routes.”
When welcomed with open arms, it’s easy to enjoy your surroundings. CSU fosters a strong sense of community among international students through a variety of organised events and activities.
“During the first week, we had an international orientation that welcomed us and provided essential information about our new environment,” says Gudipudi. “The university also arranges trips to iconic places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Boulder, and Denver during breaks. Additionally, there are opportunities to connect with local families, especially during the holidays, which helps ease homesickness.”
Find Your Energy at Colorado State University | 2024
At CSU, the natural environment is just one part of what makes the student experience exceptional. The university combines the vast resources and opportunities of a large public research institution with the personalised support typically found at smaller schools. With a student-to-faculty ratio 17:1, CSU ensures that students receive individualised attention from extraordinary teachers across all disciplines, whether in the classroom, the lab, or the field.
Each year, over 5,000 students participate in undergraduate research opportunities, and one in four CSU students gain global experiences that provide them with a broader world perspective. This commitment to excellence, combined with CSU’s location in one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant regions in the country, fuels student success. Plus, Colorado’s booming tech scene offers ample job opportunities with major companies like Otter Products, HP, Amazon, and Google.
It’s no surprise, then, that CSU has seen record enrollment in recent years, fueled by all-time highs in student diversity and success and record fundraising and research expenditures that continue to hit new highs year after year.
As one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 research universities, CSU is on the rise, with nearly US$500 million in research funding annually. In 2022, it was recognised as one of the top 10 research institutions globally contributing to solving the COVID-19 pandemic.
Indeed, CSU’s faculty are nationally and internationally recognised for their groundbreaking research, which they often share with students. “In classes, professors have given examples from their research instead of just generic ones, which helps me connect to the course material better,” Gudipudi says. “Also, as part of my major, I will have to complete a capstone project where I’ll need to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems and work on possible solutions. That’s something to look forward to later in my undergrad.”
International Graduates: Why Choose CSU?
Experiential learning is big across CSU’s long lineup of academic offerings. Students can choose from nearly 300 academic programmes, including over 70 majors with 140 concentrations and nearly 100 minors. This level of breadth allows students to create a truly unique academic path tailored to their goals. Programmes offered include Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Animal Science, Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Psychology, and Hospitality/Tourism Management.
On all routes, CSU offers a dedicated support network. Services include career advising, health resources, safety support, international student assistance, and Optional Practical Training (OPT) guidance for after graduation.
Ilkhomiddin Nabijonov, a Hospitality and Event Management student, benefitted from these resources. He completed three internships at two hotels during his studies and credits his professor, Dr. Kang, for this. “She helped me a lot, was instrumental in helping me obtain the three internships, and gave directions in my academic journey.”
Upon graduating, Nabijonov hopes to contribute to the US hospitality industry while gaining enough exposure to one day improve operations back home in Uzbekistan. Remaining in Colorado, specifically, was an obvious choice for him. “Denver is nearby, which is basically Colorado’s New York City,” he says. “Plus, CSU has a gorgeous environment. My friends and I love to go hiking in our free time.”
Learn more about Colorado State University today.
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