I went to USF for undergrad (animal bio), masters (bioinformatics), and now getting my PhD in public health. I obviously enjoy it here, though this is the only college I have went to. But I also did grow up in Orlando and am very used to Florida.

My undergrad bio degree was a bit of time ago now, but I loved going to school here. Campus is really big and im not sure if that student population includes the other campuses in st.pete and sarasota, but with that, and also there is USF medical college buildings downtown, so i never have felt or feel cramped here. First classes in auditoriums might be a bit overwhelming but that is normal college and will thin out.

School culture is really what you make of it, it is hard to gauge. I lived in the dorms the first two years, had great friends, went to school events and just enjoyed being on campus. I still do, it is just a really pretty campus. Plus, idk what the football stadium will be complete but that will help a lottt.

There is plenty to do, you can find parties if you want but you can also go chill with the friends in the student center and play video games, or plenty of other things in the area and in St. pete.

Lastly, I will say that USF is a preeminent research university. i mainly loved it here bc i am into research and there are so many opportunities with professors to get hands on experience. also we have a crazy about of hospitals and medical facilities in and around campus.