I grew up in Jackson, New Jersey. However, since the age of nine, I would spend every summer and holiday down in Cape Coral, Florida. My parents got a divorce when I was 8, and wound up being 1,200 miles apart. My dad heard about Florida Gulf Coast University from family and was admit about me taking a tour. I wasn't overly excited about touring the school, but I thought what was the worst that could happen?
1. My Campus Tour
If you told me three years ago that I would be attending a college in Florida, I would have told you that you're out of your mind. I was set on going to a college in New Jersey; I had a few in mind going into my junior year and was planning on scheduling tours at them — until I found FGCU. I guess you could say it was love at first sight.
I remember walking into the Welcome Center and immediately being greeted by the staff. They were filled with such enthusiasm, which was genuine. They wanted to make sure that each and every student felt like they were at home. I didn't feel like I was at a college tour- I felt like I arrived home.
I fell so in love with the campus, that as soon as I got home from my tour, I started figuring out what exactly I needed so that I could apply as soon as the applications opened.
I highly recommend for any and every student looking at attending a college, to go to a tour at this school. It's just something about being on that campus that will make you never want to leave.
2. Career and Developement Services
In college, many students change their major throughout their years at college. Luckily FGCU has a team dedicated to helping you figure out what you want to do as a career, and what the steps are to pursue it. They host career fairs, and provide you with help in getting an internship and/or job! They provide individual advising sessions, to help you to the best of their ability
3. The Dorms Are Big, Like REALLY Big
So the dorms are big. FGCU is known for having spacious dorms, but really no words could describe just how amazing they are. You could easily fit an elephant in there. FGCU is ranked in the top 10 best college dorms in the entire United States. You don't have to share a bedroom with another person, you get your own personal space.
4. FGCU Is Anti-Hazing
Fraternities and sororities exist all over the country. Many times there are horror stories about the hazing, that goes into becoming a member. Luckily at FGCU that is not a concern. They have a zero tolerance for hazing, and under no circumstances is it permitted. To even register to potentially be in a sorority you must complete an anti-hazing course online and pass a test on it. They have resources in place as long as a team ready to investigate any allegations of it.
5. The Dirty Birds
The Dirty Birds are the official fan section for all sports at FGCU. It is a $10 membership fee and it provides you with experiences year round! They offer Dirty Bird members opportunities such as seating directly behind the team and traveling to state competitions on a bus provided for you! After the games the teams also thank the Dirty Birds for coming, the amount of school spirit this school has is insane.
6. The Shuttle System
Although not too far of a walk from the dorms to the classrooms, there is no need to walk. The school provides a free shuttle service that runs EVERY 15 minutes! They pull up in front of Palmetto and travel to the music building and also the Cohen loop.
7. The Beach
In North Lake, which is primarily an upperclassmen living area, is FGCU's own little beach. The beach is beautiful and a great place to go to relieve stress. At the beach, you can relax in a beach chair, or check out the rentals that they have available.
8. CAPS
On campus, there is counseling and psychological services, which is a source of mental health support. They offer walk in and weekly meetings, completely free. Many students utilize this resource, and I would encourage more too.
9. The Sovi Pool
In South Village, a giant pool is located right in the heart of the buildings. It's a great place to go sit and get a tan.
10. The Greek Life
FGCU has four different organizations. Panhellenic, IFC, NPHC and MGC. If you have an interest in joining Greek life, FGCU has many opportunities as each organization has a number of different fraternities/ sororities to join.
11. FGCU has Chick Fil A
The best part of my day is walking into the Cohen center and seeing Chick-fil-A. It's super convenient and they are always on top of their game in there.
12. The Amount of Organizations
There is a registered student organization for everything. During my orientation, I was told that they just created a "People-Watching" club. The best part is, if they don't have an organization you want, you have to reach a minimum of three people and one adviser, and then you've made an RSO ( Registered Student Organization).
13. The Library
The library is beautiful. They have study rooms, cubes, and individual seating areas. It's a great place to go to study or print out anything you need to print. It's open
14. The Amount of Students
There are only around 15,000 students at FGCU, it's the perfect amount. It's not too small, but also not too big. It's the perfect fit.
15. Intramural Sports
Intramural sports are essentially like a "club team," where you play against other students in whatever category you chose to participate in. Even if you don't participate you can still head over and watch the games.
16. FGCU Has Area Council
Area council exists within the halls and buildings that residents reside in on campus. The council is made up of an executive board, as well as an advisor and delegates. They create events that their "building" has and address any issues or concerns that the other residents may have. It's a great structure and allows residents to have their voice heard, and make a change.
17. The Free Online Movies
When you live in South Village or North Lake, you are able to access the free online movies that FGCU has to offer. They update and add new ones every month. There are also TV shows on there! To access the website (only works if you live on campus ) press here.
18. Azul The Eagle
Azul is FGCU's mascot. You can find him at every event on campus. Azul is full of life and can be found dancing or pumping up the crowd.
19. The Bookstore
If you need anything, the bookstore will have it. They have a huge apparel section, as well as snacks, and school supplies.
20. The Job Opportunities
If you need a job you can check E-rez and see if there's anything fitting for you! I have friends who work all over campus, the campus is flexible and works around your schedule.
21. The Overall Aura
When you step on campus, the sun shines. Your whole mood just flips. The air is fresh, the birds are chirping, and people are swinging in their hammocks. FGCU just feels like a home. The campus is stunning and a positive place to be.
22. There Will Always Be Something To Do
There is always something to do at FGCU, the opportunities are endless. Every day there's campus rec classes, or student organized meetings. There's something for everyone here.
If you haven't toured FGCU, I challenge you to. Forget any ideas you had about the school before coming in, and see it for yourself. I can say that becoming a part of FGCU '22 was the best choice I have made. I couldn't see myself going to school anywhere else.
