Where do most students live at Columbia University?

I'm curious about the residential life at Columbia University. Do most students live on campus, or do they rent apartments in New York City? And how's the social scene and community vibe wherever they live?

Most undergraduate students at Columbia University live on campus. In fact, the university has a policy that guarantees housing for all four years of undergraduate study. The Columbia campus, located in Morningside Heights, offers a blend of academic, residential, and open spaces. Residences range from traditional residence halls to apartment-style housing, all equipped with necessary amenities. First-year students are typically placed in residences like John Jay Hall and Carman Hall, with suite or corridor-style layouts. Upperclassmen often live in suite-style residences with a common living room/kitchen and individual rooms.

Living on campus helps foster a closer community amongst students. The residence halls offer various programs and events to foster a sense of community and engagement among students. Students not only study together but also share meals, engage in discussions, participate in intramural sports, and attend social gatherings, fostering a vibrant community with diverse perspectives.

That said, some students do choose to live off-campus, either in nearby neighborhoods or other parts of New York City. This is more common among graduate students or upperclassmen seeking the independence of living in the city.

The social scene at Columbia can be perceived as a blend of on-campus and city life. The bustling city offers unlimited social and cultural opportunities, but the campus itself is quite vibrant. Campus clubs, Greek life, and interest-based communities allow students to find their niche.

In short, the residential life at Columbia is quite distinctive, offering students the community feel of a traditional campus and the rich cultural and social experiences that come with living in one of the world's most exciting cities.