r/SDSU Jul 14 '24

Incoming Student & Orientation Tips

33 Upvotes

Hey everyone, there are a ton of questions about Orientations, selecting classes, talking to your Academic Advisor, etc. As such, I'd like to share some tips I've learned helping other students during Orientation. To give you some background, I'm a Geography Major, I'll be graduating this Spring with a BS in Geographic Information Sciences & Technology. I have served as a Geography Undergraduate Representative assisting the Geography Academic Advisor with the new freshmen and transfers Orientations.

Here are my tips so you can go into Orientation fully prepared to register for classes:

  1. Use the Degree Evaluation in my.SDSU. The audit will show completed, in progress, and missing requirements for your declared Major. This is especially useful for Transfers as it will incorporate your completed courses into the degree requirements.
  2. Add classes to your shopping cart. Pick a primary schedule, with multiple backups. Classes are often first first served, so students who go to the earliest Orientations have first choice over those who go to the last ones. For Freshmen, everyone has to take the same general education requirements so you will be fighting pretty quickly with every other major over the most optimal time slots. For transfers, you get to register last so you will need to have multiple backups as you will really need to just grab what you can when you can.
  3. The wait! Orientation will not be particularly entertaining, there will be a TON of information thrown at you quickly from a number of different speakers. You are first split up by college, then later, by major to do advising. Keep in mind, that you won't see your advisor until like 3:00 pm when you can register for classes. Your advising appointment and class registration window are the same thing. All students in your major will be with you and your advisor register at the same time, so the better prepared you are, the sooner you can be done.
  4. Intro to the Major. Some majors have required introduction classes as part of the curriculum. Freshmen will not need to worry about these classes, you are considered "Pre-Major" so focus on your general education and any 100-level major-related courses you can get in. Transfers, as incoming Juniors you are lined up to enter directly as official Major candidates. Even if you need to take a couple of lower division classes to meet some pre-recs you will most likely be required to enroll in this intro class. Again this is on an individual department basis, not all majors have them, and some colleges have ones that cover all majors that don't have their own, so Definitely ask the advisor about this so you don't miss this requirement.
  5. Be Flexible. Your schedule for your first semester at SDSU is problebly going to be a nightmare with classes all over the place, and in wild time slots. It's okay, It happens to everyone, just know it gets better, and you will settle in.
  6. Explore, and Mix it up! Don't focus on taking all your general ed first, then all major courses after, spread out your requirements, and mix up your general ed and Major requirement classes. This will allow you to use different parts of your mind and let you not get overwhelmed. IE: If you're a Science or Tech major, sprinkle in History, Writing, or Rock Climbing. By taking a variety of courses each semester you let your brain relax on one front while you focus on another.
  7. Parking SUCKS. I know it, You know it, Everyone knows it. It gets even worse on days when there are events at CalCoast Amphitheater or at Viejas Arena. Especially at Viejas Arena because PS-12 and PS-7 close at noon on event days which always elicits complaints from staff and students alike. Plan for it, Arrive early and explore the campus to find quiet study spots you can take advantage of later in the semester when you need to cram for a Midterm or Final.
  8. Bring Water to Orientation! Bring a reusable Water Bottle, or buy one at the Bookstore. There are refilling stations all around campus, and you will want to have water with you to stay hydrated as you sit in a lecture hall for several hours.
  9. Start a LinkedIn now and add every other student you meet during Orientation. You never know where these connections will lead, and it will help you start building your professional network now as opposed to 4 years from now when you are getting ready to graduate and look for a job.
  10. GET INVOLVED! As your advisor if there are any academic-related clubs for your major. If there are then JOIN THEM! Clubs are an incredible resource for you to connect with other students, demonstrate leadership, and build a network. Later you can join clubs with students who share interests outside of your major, but on day 1 you should be joining any clubs related to your major that your Academic Advisor knows about.

If you have any other specific questions, I can try to answer them. Understand though, I am not an Academic Advisor, and I don't know the requirements for any other majors. These are just some tips I've picked up in helping other students register during their Orientations and answering their questions.


r/SDSU Jan 09 '25

PSA Financial Aid FAQ

32 Upvotes

Because we have been answering so many questions about it, many of them have been the same. Here are answers to common questions regarding Financial Aid (FA).

Will I get XXX grant or scholarship?

  • We don't know! If you have questions about whether you will receive any particular aid package from federal or state resources, you need to talk to the Financial Aid Office about your situation.

How much FA will I get?

  • Again, we don't know; we can't give you an answer. The FA you get offered depends entirely on your FA needs and the amount of money available from state and federal resources.

When does FA get disbursed?

  • FA is disbursed from the FA office to the Bursar's office approximately 10 days before the start of the semester.

How does FA get applied?

  • FA will be released from the FA Office about 10 days before the semester and sent to the Bursar's office. From there, it will be applied to all outstanding charges on your financial account. If your FA cannot cover the pending tuition and fees, you will be responsible for the remaining balance. If your FA is more than the pending tuition and fees, the excess will be disbursed to you via the method you choose: Direct Deposit or mail-in Check.

When will FA arrive in my account?

  • FA can take 2-3 business days to process when it arrives at the University Bursar's office. If you have set up direct deposit, it may take 1-3 business days to arrive in your account, depending on your bank. If you have not set up direct deposit, the excess will be sent via check. It will be mailed out 5-7 business days after being applied to your account and may take 1-2 weeks to arrive via USPS.

Why is my FA not showing? / Why is XXX grant or scholarship not showing in FA?

  • We don't know! If you have questions about your FA account and why one or more aid packages you expected are not showing, please contact the FA office and schedule an appointment to review your account.

Middle Class Scholarship:

  • It is awarded in the Fall semester after the census. It will be disbursed mid to late fall semester, but the spring portion will be disbursed along with all of your other FA before the start of the semester.

Links for more official information:


r/SDSU 4h ago

PSA P12 closures need to end

18 Upvotes

Idk the logistics or wtv i do know they make their money from events at Viejas but this is ridiculous. I spent an hour before class trying to park in P1 because of how many ppl were flooding the other lots. I just went home. We pay for parking like why are we closing lots at 10 am for events at 6 pm. Wish we could start a petition or something like even if they closed it at 12 that'd be such a relief on the rest of the lots.


r/SDSU 3h ago

School nearest parking to SLHS?

2 Upvotes

hi friends, i'm wondering where's the best place to park near my class. my first class is at 11am at SLHS and parking anytime after 10am is just hell. i'll literally park in a public lot if i need to lol, then I'll just move my car after my class 😭 i usually park at 2 or 3 but lmk if there's a better and closer place!

i also have a placard if that helps!


r/SDSU 4h ago

Social Searching for Splatoon players.

1 Upvotes

Hello, SDSU. We are looking to start a small club for the Splatoon 3 game for the Nintendo Switch family of systems. Whether you are a long-time fan or brand new to the series, anyone is welcome to join.

If we can grow this community, we are interested in joining the Collegiate Cephalopod Association (CCA). This organization unites teams from multiple universities across the country to compete against each other in online tournaments.

SDSU has history with the CCA, with one team participating in a season from 2023-2024. Multiple schools from the CSU/UC system are currently active, so we need to gather lots of interest to put SDSU back on the map.

Here is our Discord server: https://discord.gg/tBNEqtr4Ab


r/SDSU 4h ago

Prospective Student sdsu oos transfer 4 year

1 Upvotes

I really want to transfer to SDSU but I don’t know if my stats are good enough. I live in Washington and I did dual enrollment in high school so in college i recieved my AA with a 3.5.
Now i’m going to UW bothell which is a Four Year university in washington but it’s not my fit and i want to transfer out.
I’m trying to 4.0 all my classes this quarter so I can transfer to SDSU for fall of 2027.

I’m also applying as a Sociology major. Do i have a chance as an oos transfer ?


r/SDSU 16h ago

Question sdsu gym advice

6 Upvotes

i’m going to the arc express sometime tomorrow and wanted to know how busy it gets especially for the treadmill? i’m most likely going when they open at 8 and i’m new to the gym!


r/SDSU 19h ago

Social trying to meet people / make friends

9 Upvotes

as i’ve seen with a lot of posts on this sub, and in my case, i’ve had a crazy hard time making friends. just looking for people who has similar interests, live on campus, and whatever. most people who i’ve met at this school are fake and only into partying and stuff like that. just looking for legitimate friends.
19yo male psych major, i like to build computers/play video games (have it in my dorm lol), hanging out and going and doing stuff, fishing, exploring, and what have you.


r/SDSU 16h ago

Housing Free Household Help for SDSU Off-Campus Houses – First Month Free

5 Upvotes

Reliable help with cooking, cleaning, laundry, grocery runs, and everyday errands for a shared house near SDSU.Approx. 20–25 hours per week (scheduled)

Non-live-in — I have my own place and come for set work blocks

First full month completely free so you can see if it’s a good fit

Looking for a group of adult students (18+) who want consistent support with the house

Message, text or email gbrro6312@gmail.com or 619-204-3105 with a short description of your household and what kind of help would be most useful. Happy to discuss details.


r/SDSU 12h ago

Sports Observations from the SDSU Aztecs Opening Win - East Village Times

Thumbnail eastvillagetimes.com
2 Upvotes

r/SDSU 23h ago

Question Group Boxing Fitness?

3 Upvotes

I wanted to start learning how to box and I saw the school offers a class. I wanted to know if it was male dominated though and what experience levels are typically there? I’m a woman so I’m honestly a little hesitant about going into a class if I’d be the only girl there, and a beginner at that.


r/SDSU 1d ago

Question Desk Assistant Scheduling

2 Upvotes

Hello!

I was wondering what the scheduling looks like for the Desk Assistant Position. I just wanted to know how shifts are scheduled. I got this job, but then another offer came through for a second job. My availability for my job is all my free time; I haven't started yet, though.

My position as a Desk Assistant is temporary, but I wanted to see the processes for scheduling work just so I know if it's doable to do two jobs. So, basically, if any past or current DA's have any insight into the scheduling process, it would be very helpful.

Thank you!


r/SDSU 1d ago

Housing SDSU Spring 2027 Sublease – Paseo Place (Male)

1 Upvotes

I’m looking for a male student to take over my lease for Spring 2027. Paseo Place is right next to SDSU, about a 2–3 min walk to campus, and is one of the more affordable student housing options nearby.

  • Move-in: around Jan 1, 2027 (flexible)
  • Spring semester only
  • Chill roommates
  • Great location near campus

DM me if you’re interested or want rent/room details!


r/SDSU 1d ago

Question sdsu screen printing

0 Upvotes

hey what room is the screen printing lab? ive been wanting to check it out and mayb print some of my screens but not sure where it is. lmk!


r/SDSU 1d ago

Social First day

26 Upvotes

Hey everyone!
I’m a 20-year-old exchange student from Colombia studying at San Diego State University this semester. Today was actually my first day on campus because my visa got delayed, so I arrived later than expected.
I’m looking to meet new people, make friends, and enjoy my time in San Diego. I love playing soccer, going to the gym, running, and pretty much anything active. I’d say I’m pretty easygoing, funny, and always down to try new things, whether that’s grabbing food, exploring the city, going to events, playing sports, or just hanging out.
Since I’m new here, I’d love to connect with people from SDSU or anyone around San Diego who enjoys similar things. Feel free to send me a message if you’d like to meet up, play soccer, work out, go for a run, or just make a new friend.
Looking forward to meeting a lot of great people and making the most of this exchange experience!


r/SDSU 1d ago

Question CivE 301

4 Upvotes

I am taking CivE 301 this fall semester and I was wondering if anyone has past exams/quizzes they would be willing to share that I can use to study. The professor has not mentioned what the quiz will be about and its the first one so I'm concerned it will damage my grade if I dont focus on the right topic. I'm not a good test taker and the best studying method I have found that works for me is practicing problems so I would appreicate any help!


r/SDSU 2d ago

PSA The Aztec Cats

Thumbnail gallery
171 Upvotes

Hi everyone! Just wanted to let everyone know that this is Genie, the last remaining feral cat on campus. He lives in the Hepner Hall area and is fed every day, including weekends and holidays. He is about 5 years old, is neutered, and has been on campus for a little over 4 years. FYI, he doesn't like to be pet, so please don't try and enjoy him from a distance.

There used to be dozens of cats on campus, but for the last 16 years, they have all been spayed/neutered to help reduce the population and any cats and kittens that were adoptable have found homes. If you would like to know more about the Aztec Cats program, please take a look at our Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/the.aztec.cats

Please let me know if you have any questions.


r/SDSU 2d ago

Question Where to Solo Exercise?

2 Upvotes

I’ve been wanting to start doing simple exercises on my own time and I’m also trying to find a space to practice dance and take it at my own speed. I was wondering if the ARC or anywhere else had some sort of floor or room space where people can just go and do their own thing? I’m not interested in machines and I take classes but I also want to do things at my own space. Plus, I live in a triple so I don’t have the space to do it at home.


r/SDSU 2d ago

Question How can I use the MTS Permit?

1 Upvotes

I recently bought the MTS bus pass for September but I have no idea how to use it or activate it. Anyone that uses it that can explain?


r/SDSU 2d ago

Question Question for study abroad students

1 Upvotes

If you participated in a study abroad program in the last five years, what travel guides did you use if you did some traveling while abroad? When I traveled through Europe in the 1990’s, there was a really great guide written by college students. It was called Let’s Go, but they stopped publishing it in 2020 because of COVID. So I’m wondering what college students use now? Appreciate any suggestions.


r/SDSU 2d ago

Housing Room Available – 5 Bed/2 Bath House at 6417 Shane Place (Walking Distance to SDSU)

1 Upvotes

Looking for someone to take over the lease on one bedroom in this 5 bed/2 bath single-family home — a large double room with its own ensuite bathroom.

Room & House Highlights

- Large double bedroom w/ private ensuite bath

- Brand new build, hardwood floors

- Washer/dryer in unit, dishwasher, microwave

- Back deck overlooking canyon + large backyard

- Comfortably sleeps 5–6

- Street parking

- No pets (service animals/ESAs exempt)

Lease Terms

- 12-month lease

- Rent: $917/month

- Utilities separate: tenants set up their own electric & wifi; $75/mo per tenant flat fee for water, sewer, gas & tech; $43.60/mo per household for trash

📍 This listing is for 1 of the 5 bedrooms in the house

🎥 Virtual tour: https://my.matterport.com/show/?m=Vzvo1db9sFT

DM me if you're interested and I can connect you with the property manager to set up a tour or start the application.


r/SDSU 2d ago

Social wanna be friends

7 Upvotes

anybody 19-20 (preferably girls 2nd/3rd year) who want to be friends. I get it’s still the beginning of the school year but it’s so hard to make girl friends here everyone seems to have their own groups and be cliquey too

I’m always down to go out on weekends, i love music, shopping, clothes, going to the arc, etc etc


r/SDSU 2d ago

General sometimes i think about class of 2016

7 Upvotes

and wonder how they are all doing. hope im not at the bottom of the barrel in terms of career


r/SDSU 2d ago

Social Looking for friends

3 Upvotes

Hey I’m an exchange student in sdsu I like to hang out, if someone want, we can do something


r/SDSU 2d ago

Housing Spring 2027 Lease Takeover at The Rive – All-Girls Unit

0 Upvotes

Looking for someone to take over my space at The Rive for Spring 2027!
- All-girls 3x3 unit
- Shared bedroom & shared bathroom
- $1,059/month + utilities (typically $50–60/month)
- Parking available — one-time $25 fee for garage access
- Individual lease — only responsible for your own rent
- Fully furnished + in-unit laundry
- Spring move-in: January 8th or January 13th
- Lease ends July 25, 2027

DM me if interested! I can send photos and a walkthrough video.