Where to Major in English in New York?

Hello there! I'm a high school junior who has fallen in love with the English language and its literature. I'm thinking about New York for college because of its rich literary history. Any thoughts on the best colleges for an English major in the state?

Absolutely! New York is an excellent place to study English, with several esteemed institutions offering comprehensive programs.

One of the first that comes to mind is Columbia University. Its English Literature program offers a solid foundation in British and American works, with opportunities to explore global literature and multi-disciplinary works.

Then there's New York University (NYU). Literature and Writing is a popular major there, and you'll have access to a fantastic faculty and a liberal arts approach that encourages you to engage with works from a global perspective.

Cornell University's English program stands out for its diverse curriculum, which includes literature and creative writing and is particularly renowned for poetry and fiction.

Other notable mentions are University of Rochester and Barnard College, the women's college affiliated with Columbia University. Both offer highly ranked English programs with a flexible curriculum that allows for exploration of a range of periods and genres.

Additionally, if you are open to smaller schools, SUNY Geneseo has a well-regarded English program and provides a more intimate learning environment compared to larger universities.

Keep in mind that the "best" program will depend on your specific academic interests and aspirations. If there are certain literary periods, writers, or themes that you're particularly interested in, research the faculty and course offerings at each college to see how well they align with your interests. Also, consider opportunities for internships or other writing-related work experiences in New York City that could bolster your academic experience and future career.