So You Wanna Be a New Yorker (College Student Edition)? A Hilariously Exhaustive Guide to NYC Colleges
Alright, future Empire State builders, dreamers, and possibly pizza-obsessed scholars! You've set your sights on the Big Apple for your higher education, huh? Smart move. Just be prepared to trade your car for a MetroCard and your spacious suburban bedroom for a shoebox-sized dorm room (with, hopefully, a window). But hey, you'll be in New York City! So, let's dive into the glorious, slightly overwhelming world of NYC colleges.
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| What Colleges Are There In New York City |
The "Ivy League or Bust" Crew (and Beyond!)
The Big Names (aka the "My Parents Will Be So Proud" Colleges):
- Columbia University: Located in Morningside Heights, this Ivy League giant boasts impressive academics, a stunning campus (hello, Butler Library!), and a surprisingly decent selection of halal carts nearby. Just be prepared to explain to your Midwestern relatives what "Core Curriculum" means.
- Cornell University (Weill Cornell Medicine): Okay, technically, the main campus is in Ithaca, but their medical school is right here in NYC. So, if you're aiming to be the next Dr. Fauci (or just want to avoid awkward small talk about your major at Thanksgiving), this might be your calling.
- Yeshiva University: A renowned institution with a strong focus on Jewish studies, Yeshiva also offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Plus, you'll never have to worry about finding a good bagel.
Beyond the Ivies (Still Super Impressive):
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
- New York University (NYU): Think of NYU as the cool kid on the block. No sprawling campus, but it's everywhere in Greenwich Village. Prepare to bump into celebrities while rushing to your philosophy class.
- Fordham University: With campuses in the Bronx and Manhattan, Fordham offers a classic college experience with a Jesuit tradition. Plus, the Bronx campus is close to the New York Botanical Garden – perfect for procrastinating in a picturesque setting.
The Artful Dodgers (and Other Creatives)
For the Budding Beethovens and Warhols:
- The Juilliard School: If you can play the violin while juggling flaming torches, this is your place. Prepare for intense auditions and even more intense practice sessions.
- Parsons School of Design: Fashionistas, designers, and anyone who can rock a beret with confidence, assemble! Parsons is a world-renowned design school that will have you sketching your next masterpiece before you can say "haute couture."
- Pratt Institute: Located in Brooklyn, Pratt is another top art and design school known for its strong programs in architecture and industrial design. Bonus: Brooklyn has some amazing coffee shops.
The City University of New York (CUNY) – Your Wallet's Best Friend (Probably)
The Public University Powerhouse:
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
- CUNY System: This isn't just one college; it's a system of colleges! From community colleges to four-year universities, CUNY offers a huge range of programs and affordable tuition. Seriously, if you're on a budget (and let's be real, who isn't?), CUNY is your best bet. Check out schools like Hunter College, City College, Brooklyn College, and Queens College – each with its own unique vibe.
Don't Forget the Rest!
NYC is overflowing with colleges! We've barely scratched the surface. There are specialized schools for everything from culinary arts to maritime studies. Do your research, visit campuses (if you can), and try not to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options.
Pro-Tip: When visiting a college, try to sneak into a dining hall. The quality of the food is a crucial factor in your college experience. Just kidding (mostly).
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
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FAQs: Your Burning College Questions (Answered with a Dash of Humor)
How to apply to a college in NYC?
- Quick Answer: Fill out applications, write essays that don't make you cringe, and pray to the college admissions gods.
How to afford college in NYC?
Tip: Read aloud to improve understanding.
- Quick Answer: Win the lottery, get a full scholarship, or become a social media influencer. (Just kidding…mostly. Seriously, though, look into financial aid and scholarships.)
How to find an apartment in NYC as a college student?
- Quick Answer: Be prepared to live in a shoebox, have roommates you've never met, and pay an exorbitant amount of money. (But hey, you'll be in NYC!)
How to survive winter in NYC?
- Quick Answer: Invest in a good coat, learn to layer like a pro, and dream of spring. Also, hot chocolate helps.
How to get around NYC?
- Quick Answer: Master the subway system (it's a chaotic ballet of humanity), walk everywhere (wear comfortable shoes!), and avoid Times Square at all costs.
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