I’m applying to Rutgers and checked its reviews on Niche. I'm curious if anyone has experience with how they portray student life and academic strengths. Are these reviews and rankings in line with your personal experiences?
You're right to be curious about the accuracy of online reviews and rankings. While resources like Niche do provide some insight into a school, the information collected is often subjective - it's based on personal experiences of students or alumni that might not match up to everyone's experience.
Consider these reviews as just one part of the puzzle. Bear in mind you're reading comments made by individuals with different backgrounds, expectations, and perspectives - what works for one person might not work the same way for another.
As for assessing academic strengths, while student reviews offer some insight, I would suggest you refer to official department websites or professional rankings for more objective information. You will often find useful information such as faculty qualifications, curriculum details, and research opportunities that can give you a more comprehensive view.
Lastly, you can reach out directly to current students or alumni through online platforms, college fairs, or social media groups. Firsthand insights from those who have been in your shoes can offer valuable perspectives that you might not otherwise encounter.
Perceptions of the same school can significantly vary. Ultimately, your college experience will be influenced not just by the institutions you attend, but more importantly, by what you choose to make of the resources and opportunities available to you.
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