There are thousands of colleges and universities all across the United States. While most students know places like Harvard, Stanford, and Yale, many are unaware of the other options available to them. One such option is Idaho State University.

Idaho State University was founded in 1901, since then the university has only grown. Currently, Idaho State has over twelve thousand students, and eighty five thousand alumni. Idaho State has a 99% acceptance rate meaning almost anyone can apply and be accepted into the university.

Idaho State is the leading university in health education within the state. The Idaho State branch campus, the Sam and Aline Skaggs Health Science Center, is adjacent to the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine, Idaho’s only medical school. This makes Idaho State a good option for students pursuing a career in health. Idaho State is also one of only six institutions in the US who offer programs from all levels of education.

Idaho State offers a diverse campus, as explained by Shadow Ridge Social Studies teacher and Idaho State Alumni, Matthew Nighswonger, who states, ”It’s a campus size where everyone can feel welcome and find a group to get along with. While at the same time not being too big to be overwhelming. It is a good mix of local students from Idaho, out of state students, athletes for all the sports, and international students. It allows a young person to meet people from all types of sports.”

Idaho State is a university rich with tradition; a notable tradition is the march through the arch. Every fall, new students pass through the Swanson Arch which is the entrance to ISU’s first building. In May, graduates walk back through the arch symbolizing looking towards the future.

While Idaho State may not be a first choice for students in Las Vegas, Nighswonger recommends the University, stating, “I think it’s a great spot to get out of Vegas and try a new area. And it’s not too far from home. A student can still get back to visit on the weekends or on school breaks.“

For students still on the fence, Nighswonger recounts his personal experience at ISU, stating, “I had a great experience. I met a lot of great people there that I am still friends with over twenty years later. I had some amazing professors who changed how I think about the world and how I approach my academic life. The social life was awesome and the education experience was top notch.”