Looking for colleges in New York State

I'm starting to explore colleges in New York State, but there are so many options! Does anyone have recommendations or experiences to share about New York schools, especially in terms of campus vibe and academics?

Absolutely, New York State offers a wide range of colleges to consider.

Let's start with New York City, which is home to several renowned universities. Columbia University is a member of the Ivy League, known for its rigorous academics and vibrant urban campus in Manhattan. Meanwhile, New York University (NYU) offers an unparalleled city-campus experience with a strong focus on arts and culture.

For those seeking a smaller liberal arts experience, Barnard College could be a great fit. As an all-women’s college affiliated with Columbia University, it offers a unique blend of small-college feel with access to the resources of a large university.

Moving upstate, you'll find Cornell University in Ithaca, another Ivy League school. Cornell stands out with its stunning campus, comprehensive course offerings, and a reputation for research.

Binghamton University, part of the SUNY system, has consistently been highly ranked for its strong academics. The campus vibe there is described as friendly and community-oriented.

In the western part of the state, you have the University of Rochester, which has an open curriculum allowing for lots of academic freedom, and the Rochester Institute of Technology, known for its strong STEM and art program.

Many of these schools vary greatly in size, academic focus, campus environment, and student body, so what fits you best depends on your personal preferences and academic goals. I would suggest doing more research on each of these schools and even doing virtual or in-person tours if possible to get a better sense of the campus vibes.