Manhattan bound: Top colleges in the borough?

Hey everyone! My dream is to study in Manhattan, and I'm now starting to make a list of colleges to consider. Can you please recommend some of the best colleges in this vibrant borough? Any personal experiences or insights into campus life would also be appreciated.

Hello! Manhattan is certainly a fantastic place to study, and you have quite a few options to consider. Here are some of the top colleges in Manhattan, along with a brief description of what they're known for:

1. Columbia University - An Ivy League college with excellent programs across the board. Columbia is especially strong in the humanities, social sciences, and engineering. They have a unique Core Curriculum, which fosters a shared intellectual experience among undergraduates.

2. New York University (NYU) - A private research university with a vast range of undergraduate and graduate programs. NYU is particularly known for its programs in film and the arts, business, and the social sciences. The Washington Square Park, located at the heart of the campus, serves as an iconic spot for students to gather.

3. The Cooper Union - A highly-selective private college, offering programs in architecture, fine arts, and engineering. This college is known for its intense workload and demanding curriculum, but also offers substantial financial aid, including half-tuition scholarships to all undergraduate students.

4. Fordham University (Lincoln Center location) - A Jesuit college with liberal arts programs and professional schools. Fordham's Lincoln Center location is close to Central Park and prestigious cultural institutions, offering great internship and networking opportunities. It's especially strong in fields like theater and communication/media studies.

5. The New School - Known for its strong design, arts, and social sciences programs. The Parsons School of Design, housed within The New School, is highly respected in the fields of fashion, architecture, and more.

6. Baruch College (CUNY) - A public college with a strong focus on business, finance, and public affairs. With its competitive in-state tuition rates, Baruch is an excellent option for those looking for a great education without breaking the bank. It has consistently been ranked highly for its business programs.

7. Hunter College (CUNY) - Another public college option, Hunter focuses mainly on liberal arts programs and has strong nursing and pre-med options. With its diverse student body and rich history, Hunter provides an engaging and vibrant learning environment.

Keep in mind that attending college in Manhattan offers unique opportunities. You'll have access to countless cultural, professional, and artistic resources, along with internships and networking possibilities. Although personal experiences on campus life might vary, one thing to keep in mind is that Manhattan colleges tend to have urban campuses without the traditional "quad" that you might find at other schools. However, the city itself becomes your campus, and living in Manhattan is an experience like no other.

Good luck with your college search!