Rutgers vs NYU: What are the main differences?

Hi everyone! I recently got accepted into both Rutgers and NYU, and I'm having a hard time deciding where to go. Could someone please tell me about the main differences between these two schools, academically and socially? I'd really appreciate your help!

Congratulations on your acceptances! Both Rutgers and NYU are great schools, and it can be tough to decide between them. Here are some of the main differences you should consider when making your decision:

Academics:

1. Program Strength: NYU is known for its strong programs in business (Stern), film (Tisch), and performing arts. On the other hand, Rutgers has excellent STEM and humanities programs, with a particularly strong reputation in engineering and pharmacy. Considering your intended major, you may want to look into the specific strengths of each program.

2. Class Size: NYU has a lower student-to-faculty ratio (9:1) compared to Rutgers (15:1), which may mean smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors at NYU. This could impact your learning experience and access to resources.

3. Research: Both schools offer research opportunities, but Rutgers is a large, public research university with more focus on research and funding for various projects. If research is important to you, investigate the resources and projects available in your field at each school.

Social:

1. Campus: Rutgers is a spacious, traditional college campus located in New Brunswick, NJ, with a suburban feel and lots of open space. NYU, on the other hand, is an urban campus located in the heart of Greenwich Village in Manhattan. The difference in campus environments could significantly impact your social life and overall college experience.

2. Housing: NYU primarily offers on-campus housing for freshmen, but many upperclassmen live off-campus due to space constraints. At Rutgers, on-campus housing is available for all four years, which may help foster a greater sense of community.

3. School Spirit: Rutgers has a more traditional college atmosphere, with sports events and campus-wide, school spirit-oriented activities. NYU, in contrast, is less focused on athletics and school spirit, since the overall environment is more integrated into the vibrant NYC life.

4. Diversity: Both schools have diverse student populations, but NYU has a higher percentage of international students, which may create a unique and diverse community to interact with.

5. Cost: Rutgers, being a public institution, generally has a lower tuition cost, especially for in-state residents. NYU is a private institution, so tuition can be significantly higher. Make sure to compare financial aid packages and calculate the total cost of attendance for each school when making your decision.

Ultimately, the choice between Rutgers and NYU will depend on your personal preferences, academic goals, and cost considerations. Visit the campuses and talk to current students if possible to get a better understanding of where you might fit in best. Good luck with your decision!