So, You Wanna Be a New Yorker (and Maybe Get a Degree While You're At It)? A Totally Unbiased Guide to NYC Colleges (Mostly)
Okay, so you've decided to brave the rats the size of small poodles, the rent that could fund a small nation, and the constant, low-level hum of existential dread that is New York City. Welcome! Now, amidst the chaos and the questionable smells, you also want to, you know, learn something. Smart. Because let's face it, a degree looks way better than "Survived a Week in Times Square" on your resume. So, let's dive into the glorious world of NYC colleges, where dreams are made of… and then often crushed by student loan debt. But hey, at least you'll have a cool story to tell!
The Big Leagues (aka, the Ones Your Grandma Has Heard Of)
- Columbia University: Ah, Columbia. Where Nobel laureates roam free and the tuition rivals the GDP of a small Caribbean island. If you're looking for prestige and an education that will impress even your most judgmental aunt, this is your spot. Just be prepared to sell a kidney (or two).
- New York University (NYU): NYU is basically the cool kid on the block. Downtown location, trendy vibe, and a student body that looks like they walked straight out of a magazine. If you want to study film, drama, or anything that involves wearing black turtlenecks ironically, NYU is calling your name.
- Fordham University: A bit more "classic" than NYU, Fordham offers a strong liberal arts education with a focus on Jesuit values. So, if you're looking for a good balance between academic rigor and soul-searching, Fordham might be your jam. Plus, they have a beautiful campus!
The Hidden Gems (aka, the Ones That Won't Make Your Bank Account Cry as Much)
- The City University of New York (CUNY): Okay, "hidden gem" might be a bit of an understatement, considering CUNY is a massive system of colleges. But what's great about CUNY is the sheer variety of programs and the (relatively) affordable tuition. From specialized art schools to top-notch engineering programs, CUNY has something for everyone. Seriously, everyone.
- The Cooper Union: If you're an artist, architect, or engineer with a serious passion for your craft, The Cooper Union is your holy grail. They're known for their rigorous programs and the fact that, for a while, they offered full-tuition scholarships. (Sadly, those days are over, but it's still worth checking out!)
Location, Location, Location (Because NYC is HUGE)
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a college in NYC is where it's located. Do you want to be in the heart of the action in Manhattan? Or would you prefer a quieter, more residential vibe in Brooklyn or Queens? Think about your personality and what kind of environment you thrive in. Because let's be real, spending two hours on the subway every day just to get to class is going to get old fast.
So, You've Chosen Your College… Now What?
Congratulations! You've navigated the treacherous waters of NYC college applications. Now, all that's left is to pack your bags, say goodbye to your loved ones (and your sanity), and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Just remember, when you're feeling overwhelmed by the city's chaos, just take a deep breath, find a decent slice of pizza (it's not hard, trust me), and remember: you're in New York City! Anything is possible… except maybe finding an apartment with affordable rent.
Frequently Asked Questions (aka, the Stuff You're Probably Wondering)
How to get into Columbia University?
- Quick Answer: Be brilliant. Like, Nobel Prize-level brilliant. Okay, maybe not that brilliant, but you'll need top grades, killer test scores, and some seriously impressive extracurriculars.
How to afford college in NYC?
- Quick Answer: Apply for every scholarship and grant you can find. Seriously, every single one. Also, consider getting a part-time job (just be prepared to compete with 8 million other people for it).
How to find an apartment in NYC?
- Quick Answer: Pray. Then, get a broker (even though they're evil), be prepared to pay an arm and a leg (and possibly your firstborn child), and be ready to move fast.
How to survive winter in NYC?
- Quick Answer: Invest in a good coat, learn to layer like a pro, and embrace the hygge. Also, hot chocolate helps. A lot.
How to avoid getting scammed in NYC?
- Quick Answer: Be skeptical of everything. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And never, ever, give out your personal information to strangers. Also, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.