1. "At a school that big, you are just a number."

I agree a school with over 10,000 students is much more intimidating than one that maxes out at half of that, but no matter where you go you are always just a number. College is about setting your own path to your own future and successes and a huge part of that includes making yourself stand out. Study hard, get to know your professors and advisors in your major, make connections and I guarantee no matter where you end up you will never be "just a number."

2. It was all of your friends' safety school and it is, "too easy to get into."

So you start applying for schools and doing your research where at one point or another you see that SUNY Albany accepts over 50% of its applicants. Do yourself a favor and do not end your research there. Keep in mind that over 20,000 students apply each year, and every student who is accepted does not actually attend. I think any SUNY student can relate to the words, "safety school". I advise you to not let those words discourage you. I truly loathe that phrase in that it takes away from the opportunities that are waiting here for anyone. As a member of the Honors College here at the university, take it from me that UA isn't always fun and games. No matter where you end up there will most likely always be someone slacking off and someone excelling. Take advantage of what is given to you, and the SUNY system will open endless doors to your future.

3. "There is nothing to offer."

This excuse always seemed a bit silly to me. If you log onto UAlbany's website, it is not hard at all to find that this university offers over 200 clubs and organizations to be a part of, over 500 opportunities to study abroad in over 50 countries, as well as over 15 Division I sports teams which are always fun to watch. Also, if you are as lucky as I am, you will find your absolute best friends in college and with them there is always something to do.

4. "It's ugly."

SUNY Albany was founded in 1844, but the campus we all know and recognize was not built until the mid 1900s. Yes, the campus looks a bit outdated, but new changes are to come. While us current students tend to call this campus "SUNY Construction" in the current state that its in, the near future holds a lot to offer. One of the biggest projects going on right now is the renovation of the new Campus Center. If you read on UAlbany's website, it is set to be done at some point in 2016, the new Campus Center will offer amenities including a new multi-use auditorium, rehearsal rooms, student office suites, food venues, student resource spaces, meditation rooms and new lounges and meeting rooms. And if anyone out there cares about the environment as much as I do, you'll find it cool that this expansion includes a green roof as well as solar paneling in addition to initiatives this campus is already taking.

5. "They don't have my major there."

UAlbany offers 245 majors and minors between undergrad, masters, doctoral and graduate certificate program, some of which are continuously nationally recognized. So unless you're trying to be a nurse or a gym teacher, SUNY Albany probably has something for you.

6. "It’s too close to home." (Sorry, this is a reason that only applies to some.)

I am native to Rotterdam, NY (a town in Schenectady) and while some think it is absolutely ridiculous that I live on campus when my house is only 20 minutes up the highway, I consider myself exceedingly lucky to have the best of both worlds. I get to live in a dorm with my 6 best friends and live the "true college experience." But, as anyone who is already in college knows, sometimes you just need home. For me, that is just a short drive. Whenever I get homesick, hungry or just need to do my laundry, I can pack up my little '03 Chevy and head home for the night. ATTENTION CAPITAL DISTRICT KIDS: Don't turn UA down!

So before you look into paying $60,000 just to wear the name of a private school on your hoodie, look into the wonders of SUNY schools…(and with all intentional bias, look twice at SUNY Albany!)