About CSU San Marcos

CSU San Marcos was one of the few with a good Physics program. It also has a smaller population, which enables students to get closer to faculty and make closer relationships. CSU San Marcos is a relatively new campus, and was originally a poultry farm before it was transformed into a college. Many engineering buildings have been built and there are some planned to be built. Over 250 stairs are at the campus. There are multiple pathways present in CSU Marcos - Computer Engineering (Starting this fall), Applied Physics, Math, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, etc. Many departments as well: Physics, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Biological Sciences, Math, Computer Science, etc. Many STEM clubs active in campus - Cybersecurity Club, Robotics, 3D Printing, Women in STEM, etc.

Internships

Internships are a period of work experience that students can do. How to find internships:

  • Attend school events for useful information
  • Google
  • Check student email

Programs

  • Summer Scholars Program
    • Is a 10 week summer program that provides students with an intensive research experience together with enrichment activities aimed at career development. It also helps preparation for graduate school
  • Quantum Bridge Program
    • Incoming students get to work and research in the field of quantum mechanics and physics
  • Other programs:
    • Chemistry and Biochemistry Targeted Learning

Research

Multiple research experiences in CSU San Marcos.

  • Cancer cell research, Meteorite Research, etc.

Paying for College

2 types of loans:

  • Subsidized and unsubsidized Direct subsidized loans and direct unsubsidized loans are federal student loans offered by the U.S. Department of Education to help eligible studentscover the cost of higher education at a four-year college or university, community college, or trade, career, or technical school.
  • Subsidized loans
    • Does not accrue interest while you are in school
  • Unsubsidized loans
    • Does accrue interest while you are in school Scholarships and Grants:
  • How to find them:
    • Apply for FAFSA, studentaid.gov
    • Google
    • Financial Aid Office
    • Check student email for scholarship opportunities

Life after CSUSM

  • Continue ontu graduate school and other professional programs
  • A career in biomedical, environmental, chemical, and electronics fields
  • A career in a variety of government agencies
  • Become an educator either in K-12 or higher ed.

Stem Activity Video

Link

Takeaways

Through this opportunity, I learned much more about the California State University at San Marcos, such as its classes and departments. I learned about pathways I can take there and good opportunities given at CSUSM. I also learned about scholarships, grants, loans, internships, and more. I learned about advantanges and downfalls of doing certain things and I gained advice about college applications. I also was able to narrow down my choice of college majors/pathway and what colleges I should apply to. At the end of class we did a small hands-on experience with electrical engineering, which was not only fun and interactive, but piqued my interest in the engineering field.