An inside look at Exercise Science at Slippery Rock University

As a transfer student, I chose this university as an incoming sophomore in order to commute from home and save money. I also chose it because the Exercise Science program is reputed as one of the best in the country.

The Course Curriculum really sets you apart from students in other university exercise science programs. It is extremely challenging and the professors really push you to achieve your ultimate potential.

I took the SAT, ACT, AP Calc 1 Exam (and scored a 3), and the AP Calc 2 Exam (and scored a 3 as well).

Good job opportunities are difficult to find with only a Bachelor?s degree in the field, but are there if you actively search for them. Many job openings are in personal training and don't pay very well, have benefits, or PTO. Most of the better jobs require relocation or a Master's degree.

Yes. I was required to do a 480-hour internship in an Exercise Science setting. I was able to find a paid internship at $10/hr. However, I knew many of my peer's completely unpaid internships. I had an overall good experience and was hired on as a full-time employee at the end of my internship.

Events ranged from Dean?s List dinners, to motivational speakers, to foreign language events to concerts of popular artists. The school had a variety of different clubs and events. I was a member of a volleyball intramural team and a Spanish club. In my opinion, there was something for everyone there.

The fees were structured in two ways. You could pay by semester if you were full-time (12-18 credits) or by credit if you were part-time. However, in the summer they only offered the option to pay by credits even if you were technically full-time (12 credits or more).

No. I did not qualify for any scholarships or financial aid. This was something I was confused about considering I had nearly perfect grades in high school.

The exam structure was a blend of traditional paper and pencil exams and practical exams. Many of the hands-on courses like fitness assessment, anatomy, and clinical exercise physiology had both written exams and practicals. They also required a lot of projects, portfolios, and presentations.

They don't accept anything less than a student?s full effort and potential. In some cases, they may require work that seems tedious. However, I believe they do this to set you up to come out of school with a head start over peers from other programs.

I lived at home and commuted to school. It was a 5-10 minute drive to campus. I was able to save thousands of dollars by doing this however, I feel like I didn't make as many friends as I would have if I had stayed on campus.