Top colleges in NYC?

NYC dreamer here! Can anyone share what are some of the top colleges in NYC? Looking for strong academic programs but also a rich campus life, you know? Would be great if you could share your own experiences or impressions too. Thanks!

There are several prestigious institutions in New York City that offer strong academic programs and a vibrant campus life. Here are a few you might want to consider:

1. Columbia University: This Ivy League university is located in Manhattan's Morningside Heights neighborhood. Columbia is known for its rigorous academic programs and its Core Curriculum, an intensive, interdisciplinary course of study that all undergraduates are required to complete. The surrounding neighborhood offers a more residential feel, but you're still within a quick subway ride of downtown Manhattan.

2. New York University (NYU): Located in vibrant Greenwich Village, NYU's city-integrated setting offers a unique college experience. NYU is famously known for its programs in arts and film, business, and law, although it has a wide range of strong academic programs. There is a bustling campus life but keep in mind that this is embedded within the city so it feels less traditional.

3. Fordham University: Fordham is a Jesuit university with campuses in the Bronx (Rose Hill) and Manhattan (Lincoln Center). This college is known for its strong liberal arts programs as well as pre-professional programs, such as business and pre-med.

4. The Juilliard School: For those interested in the performing arts, Juilliard is one of the top schools, known for producing successful musicians, dancers, and actors.

5. The City University of New York (CUNY) system: This is a collection of 24 institutions spread out across the five boroughs. Their notable colleges include Baruch College known for business, and City College known for engineering and liberal arts.

I've heard from many students who've attended these schools that there's something invigorating about studying in NYC - the city itself provides lots of extracurricular opportunities, from internships to cultural experiences. However, keep in mind that living in a city brings its own set of challenges with cost of living being one of them. You'll want to consider all facets of city life when deciding if a college in NYC is the right fit for you.