There is no question that Georgia is full of picturesque college campuses with striking clock towers, enormous quadrangles, southern architecture, and historic downtowns. The region is home to over 170 colleges ranging from tiny liberal arts colleges to gain universities such as The University of Georgia, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Berry College.
With all the colleges and universities a potential college student can choose from, why did I choose Dalton State College?
Here's 11 reasons, to start:
1. The Most Affordable School
For six consecutive years, Dalton State College remains one of the most affordable public four-year colleges in the nation. The national average of college tuition is around $12,000, but at Dalton State College, the tuition is around $4,000. The affordable tuition coupled with top educational programs put Dalton State College in first place spot.
2. Top Educational Programs
Dalton State College offers 22 Bachelor's degrees, 16 Associate's degrees, 3 Certificates, and 6 Mini-Certificates. The Radiologic Therapy, BSN Nursing, and Early Childhood Education remain the top educational programs with receiving numerous awards and acknowledgements. Also, as of 2016, the School of Business received its accreditation from AACSB, which less than 5% of schools in the country have earned. Dalton State often gets a bad representation based on the stigma that it's an "easy school." However, I would highly disagree because you can't receive a quality education with dedicated professors and affordable tuition just anywhere.
3. Roadrunner Nation
At Dalton State College, the Roadrunner Nation is an instrumental component of the college's success. Whether it's winning the national championship or losing a beloved college professor, the Roadrunner Nation always comes together as a united front. The support of the roadrunner nation creates a close-knit community and encourage you to grow into what I am today.
4. Student Involvement
There are several opportunities for students to get involved at Dalton State College. Dalton State College offers 2 fraternities and 2 sororities. Along with the fraternities and sororities, Dalton State Colleges offers a variety of academic honor clubs and extracurricular clubs such as Psi Chi (Psychology), Beta Chi Nu (Biology), Outdoors Club, and Environmental Club just to name a few. There are several opportunities for you to become more involved with Dalton State, but you have to be willing to branch out of your comfort zone. Trust me, it will be an amazing experience that will enhance your college experience!
5. Outstanding Professors
I might be a little biased, but Dalton State has outstanding professors who truly care about their students and their educational experience. You don't just become another number or face in the crowd like larger universities. The interpersonal relationship between the professors and students increases the attendance and learning in the classroom. Also, the professors take time outside the classroom to answer your questions over the material and help you pass the class.
6. Diversity
In 2016, Dalton State College announced their enrollment reached 5,044 students. Amongst DSC student population, 65% are White, 23% are Hispanic, 31% are Minority, and 4% are African-American. The diverse campus allows you to meet new people from different cultures and background experiences, which makes you a more well rounded person!
7. Greek Life
Dalton State currently has two fraternities and two sororities: Alpha Kappa Lambada (AKL), Delta Chi, Alpha Omicron Pi (AOÏ€), and Alpha Sigma Tau (AST). The option of rushing a sorority/fraternity will provide you with a everlasting sisterhood/brotherhood bond that you will carry onward throughout your life. Also, it gives your an opportunity to attend social events on the weekends and give back to the community.
8. New Beginnings
Dalton State College can truly change a person's life by giving them the opportunity to finally go back to college. Regardless of the unexpected path or hardships that you're facing in life, Dalton State will help you achieve your goals. The impossible can truly become the possible.
9. Classroom Size
The average class size at Dalton State College is around 17 students, which is less than the larger colleges and universities. However, the smaller classroom sizes allows the professors and students to maximize the educational experience and create a more personable relationship outside the classroom.
10. Career Opportunities
Since Dalton State College is widely known for their top educational programs, companies and organizations desperately want DSC students. Whether you live in Chattanooga, Dalton, Calhoun, or Elijay, there are several career opportunities in your particular major. Also, Dalton State's career services allows current students and alumni the tools and resources to find employment, which is a perfect gateway to finding your perfect job!
11. Alumni Support
The DSC Foundation is continuously giving back to current DSC students and alumni through scholarships and career opportunities. The DSC Foundation organizes several events and fundraisers throughout the year to give back to the Dalton community.