Which are the top colleges in New York?

I'm considering applying to schools in New York and I want to make sure I'm targeting some of the best options available. What are some of the top colleges in New York, and what makes them unique or highly regarded?

New York state is home to several reputable institutions which are recognized for their strong academic programs, leading research opportunities, and diverse student bodies. Here are a few:

1. Columbia University: Located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Columbia is an Ivy League university recognized for its programs across a range of subjects like Engineering, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Columbia’s Core Curriculum, which emphasizes literature, philosophy and social sciences, is one of its distinguishing features, fostering a strong intellectual foundation for all students.

2. New York University (NYU): Located in the heart of New York City, NYU offers diverse programs, including acclaimed programs in Business (Stern School of Business), arts (Tisch School of the Arts), and Law. Apart from a rigorous academic curriculum, students have plethora of work and internship opportunities given its central location.

3. Cornell University: Although not based in NYC (its main campus is in Ithaca), it's an Ivy League school with a renowned Medical School and Technology School in NYC. Cornell's main campus offers strong programs in areas such as Engineering, Business, and Hotel Management.

4. University of Rochester: Known for a flexible curriculum that allows students to design their own course of study. It's especially strong in Music (Eastman School of Music), Engineering, and Science.

5. Cooper Union: This is a specialized school located in Manhattan, known for its top programs in architecture, fine arts, and engineering. It's unique in offering every admitted student a half-tuition scholarship for all four years.

6. Barnard College: A private women's liberal arts college affiliated with Columbia University. Offering the resources of a large university (all classes and activities at Columbia are open to Barnard students) with the close-knit community of a smaller college, it's a top choice for women seeking both a liberal arts education and access to a vibrant city.

Remember, individual 'fit' is just as important as the overall prestige of the school. Each of these universities have unique cultures, locations, and academic opportunities, so I would recommend researching each school thoroughly to find one that aligns best with your goals and values.