Hey everyone, I have been accepted at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute but I am not from the area and I am curious about the location. Can anyone shed light on what it's like to live in Troy, NY? What's the student life and local amenities like? Is the area safe?
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is located in Troy, New York, which sits on the eastern bank of the Hudson River. It's a small city, but part of a much larger metro area known as the Capital District that includes Albany, Schenectady, and a number of smaller towns and cities.
In terms of amenities, Downtown Troy is a quick walk from campus and has a nice selection of coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, and a weekly farmer's market that is a favorite of many RPI students. Troy does celebrate its history and lends itself to a quaint, small-town feel which some students like.
For shopping, there's the Colonie Center and Crossgates Mall which are both about a 20-minute drive away from the campus. If you enjoy nature, you would also appreciate that the Adirondack Mountains are about a 90-minute drive from RPI for hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities.
The safety of the area is generally comparable to that of many small cities, with some neighborhoods safer than others. Crime does exist, as in any city, but campus security at RPI is pretty solid and they offer safety services like a shuttle service and campus alert system. As is true in any city environment, it's key to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Regarding student life, RPI has over 200 student-run clubs for a wide variety of interests, a vibrant Greek life community, and Division III athletics. Do note that it's a rigorous academic environment, so the pace can be fast and work-heavy but peer and faculty support are generally reported as strong. The school is known for its STEM programs, so if you’re studying in one of these fields, you’ll be among peers who share your academic interests.
All in all, it's a good mix of urban amenities and access to nature with a strong community on campus.
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