Cornell vs NYU: Clash of NY schools!

I'm a high school junior considering applying to both Cornell and NYU for college. I'm leaning towards a major in business or economics. I know that both schools have great programs, but I'm wondering about the key differences between them, in terms of academic reputation, size, campus life, and location. Any insight from current students or alum would be very helpful!

Congratulations on narrowing down your college choices! Cornell and NYU are both excellent institutions, but they offer different experiences in terms of academic reputation, size, campus life, and location.

Academic reputation:

Both Cornell and NYU are respected for their business and economics programs. Cornell's Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management is highly regarded and is part of the larger Ivy League network. Meanwhile, NYU's Stern School of Business is well-known for finance and has strong ties to Wall Street and the finance industry.

Size:

Cornell is a larger university with over 23,000 students, while NYU has around 51,000 students. Despite the larger student population at NYU, class sizes at both schools can be relatively similar, especially after the introductory level.

Campus life:

Cornell's campus is in Ithaca, a small college town surrounded by nature and outdoor recreational opportunities. The sense of community there may be stronger due to its relative isolation. NYU, on the other hand, is in the heart of New York City and does not have a traditional campus. Its buildings are integrated within the city, so NYU students often feel they are part of the larger NYC community, which provides endless opportunities for internships, cultural experiences, and networking.

Location:

As mentioned earlier, Cornell is in a smaller town, which may be more suitable for those who appreciate a quieter, more relaxed environment. Keep in mind that Ithaca can be quite cold during winters. On the contrary, NYU is in the bustling city of New York, which offers unparalleled access to various industries, cultural experiences, and events. However, this might be overwhelming for some students, and the cost of living is considerably higher.

Overall, the decision between Cornell and NYU will depend on your preferences for a campus environment, location, and the specific strengths of their business and economics programs. It would be beneficial for you to visit both schools if possible, to get a better understanding of which environment best suits your personality and aspirations. Good luck!