What is The New School in New York like?

Trying to find out more about The New School in NYC. What are its main focuses or advantages? I've heard it's pretty different from traditional universities, but I'm not sure how.

The New School in New York is a highly progressive university and its approach to education is indeed quite distinctive from many traditional institutions. It places a significant emphasis on creativity, innovation, and challenging the status quo. The school encourages students to use critical thinking and design-centric learning to address societal issues. Students are often passionate about social justice, arts, and global perspectives.

The New School is segmented into several distinct colleges, each specializing in a different area. The best known of these is Parsons School of Design, regarded as one of the premier design schools in the world. Other branches include the Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, which offers a seminar-style liberal arts college experience, and the Schools of Public Engagement, which includes programs in media studies, creative writing, and international affairs.

Another advantage of The New School is its prime location in New York City's Greenwich Village, a neighborhood known for its creative and progressive vibe. This location offers students many cultural, internship, and networking opportunities in one of the world's most vibrant and renowned cities.

However, due to its heavy focus on the arts, humanities, and social sciences, prospective students who lean more towards STEM might not find it the best fit. This isn't to say that STEM-focused individuals won't thrive here, but the curriculum is definitely more tailored towards the creative and socially-inclined.

In sum, The New School provides a unique interdisciplinary approach to education, and positions students to not just learn but also to apply their knowledge and creativity in real-world contexts, making it an excellent choice for independent thinkers who thrive in a creative and dynamic environment.