Hey guys, I'm thinking about applying to NYU as an English major. Can any current students or alumni share their experiences with the program? What's the coursework like and how are the professors?
Hello! NYU's English major is housed within the College of Arts and Science, and it's known to be quite popular and respected. The program emphasizes a wide range of literary genres, and puts a strong focus on understanding the cultural, historical, and theoretical contexts in which texts are produced and received.
The coursework is diverse, with classes covering subjects such as British & American literature, comparative literature, literary theory, creative writing, and more. As an English major, you'll be required to take introductory survey courses, intermediate courses, advanced seminars, and a senior seminar to round out your studies. Many students appreciate the balance between structure and flexibility that the program offers, as it provides a solid foundation while allowing you to explore areas of personal interest.
Professors in the program are typically described as knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging. They often have a diverse range of interests and expertise, which can lead to enriching discussions and unique perspectives on literature. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that NYU has a strong creative writing department, with many distinguished visiting writers and professors who teach classes and hold readings or workshops throughout the year.
Outside of the classroom, there are numerous student clubs and organizations related to English and creative writing for you to get involved in. These can help you further develop your skills, network with fellow literature enthusiasts, and potentially get your work published in campus journals or magazines. You'll also be right in the heart of New York City, which is one of the literary capitals of the world, so there's no telling what cultural experiences and professional opportunities might come your way off campus!
As with any program, individual experiences can vary, so it's always a good idea to reach out to current students and alumni directly to get a more personal perspective on what it's like to be an English major at NYU. Overall, however, the program is known to offer a robust education with numerous opportunities for growth and exploration in literary studies.
If you decide NYU is the right place for you to pursue your English studies and are looking for tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, consider checking out CollegeVine's blog post breaking down each of NYU's school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-nyu-essays/. After all, NYU is a highly selective school, and at such institutions the essays are often just the thing that distinguish one highly qualified applicant from another.
Good luck with your application to NYU!
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