New York University
New York, NY, USA

Reviews

New York University

Lana from Tenafly, NJ

a current student here
100 people found this review useful
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Am learning a lot
The learning portion is inevitable, isn’t it? NYU has various schools underneath its purple umbrella – College of Arts and Science, Tisch School of the Arts, Stern School of Business, Steinhardt School of Culture/Education/Human Development, College of Nursing, Silver School of Social Work, Preston Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality/Tourism/Sports Management, the new Global Liberal Studies Program, and the Liberal Studies Program. No matter what your interests or professional aspirations are, there is a school for you. If none of them quite fit the bill, there’s the Gallatin School of Individualized Study where you can design your own program of study. NYU, with its rigorous curriculum, will give you a well-rounded education. You will be well-versed in the ways of the world – through the courses for your major and the core curriculum: The Morse Academic Plan. My course load this past year consisted of various classes in different areas – Art History, Music Business, Game Theory, Anthropology. They were taught by some of the most experienced and expert faculty. Although I’m not a hugely Science-oriented person and I didn’t find my Natural Science course interesting at all times, the course definitely heightened my knowledge in the area. Overall, my courses were stimulating, challenging, and interesting.
Am enjoying being here
Blair Waldorf may refer to NYU as a “glorified state school” filled with students with ironic facial hair – but NYU is rightfully called a dream school and deserves the prestigious tag. Freshmen year was truly one of the greatest years of my life and I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. This is the University where the meaning of communal bathrooms is lost; where you will wake up in the morning and revel in the fact that you attend NYU; where an acceptable “Welcome Week” activity is “Guess the Straight Person”; where going out at midnight is completely acceptable; where Thursday is the new Friday (unless you’re Pre-Health, sorry); where drawing a fellow student naked or tap-dancing (or both at the same time) are typical forms of homework; where an exciting non-traditional college experience awaits you; where adventures are in reach and in front of you (unless you stumble upon a film set, in which case you need to go around); where the grid of Manhattan is your campus; where the campus never sleeps; and where summer is truly the worst part of the year.
Bang for the buck
Unless you’re blessed with scholarships, born incredibly wealthy, or fortunate enough to be Alexis Bledel or James Franco—you’ll probably cringe (at least a little) at the fact that NYU comes with a minimum price tag of $50,000. Gandalf the Grey is still falling down my hole of debt. Is it very expensive? Yes. But is it worth it? I think so. It’s an insurmountable burden on my parents, so I’m making the most of my education – and if you do too, the entire experience will truly be worth every cent. You live in Manhattan, you get some of the best residence/dining halls, you have access to an exponential amount of part-time jobs and internships, you have an expansive array of classes and extra-curricular activities to choose from, and some of the best faculty and experts heading it up. And you’ll have the time of your life. Like the commercials say—priceless.
Tips for prospective students
If you are in the midst of your high school career, keep your grades up and stay involved. NYU generally doesn’t conduct individual interviews, so you need your application to shine among the tens of thousands that flood the Admissions Office. Apply to the NYU school that you want to apply to – i.e. don’t go to College of Arts and Science if you fully intend to transfer to Stern. Internal transfers are not necessarily easier. Carpe diem, baby – just follow your passions. If the college application process has finished (congratulations, hope it didn’t drive you too mad), then it must be decision time. This may seem obvious, but if you do not like the city, NYU is probably not for you. I’ve met several first-years who chose NYU despite their dislike for the city, and then ended up hating their entire experience. You have to understand that the closest thing to a quad you will get is Washington Square Park: a former burial ground. Take the time to visit NYU, make sure you can see yourself living there for four years. Talk to current students, stay overnight, sit in on a class, talk to faculty, do your research, get all of your questions answered. Every school within NYU has its own specialization/field. Whether you are dead set on what you want to study or you have no idea – there truly is a place for everyone. Keep your passions within reach, allow your education to serve as cornerstones for your career path, but look into the arrays of classes and leave some room for exploration.
Great for these types of students
I transitioned easily, but prior to my arrival, I was told that it was easy to feel isolated at NYU—that it was necessary to put yourself out there and to actively make friendships. For those who do not find that fact daunting, NYU will probably be a great place for you. However, even if you are more reserved, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people (orientation, extra-curricular activities, residence halls, classes) and there truly is a niche for everyone. As long as you are open to new relationships (friends, professors, etc.), perspectives, and environments, you will most likely thrive at NYU. Living in one of the world’s greatest cities is not without its temptations, so make sure you can keep a realistic balance between the social and academic aspects of college. NYU is perfect for those who want an exciting/non-traditional college experience, who don’t mind being obstructed from class because Robert Pattinson is filming, who love bustling cities and cultural experiences, who are open-minded and independent, who want to carve out their own opportunities, who revel in the fact that NYU’s football team is undefeated and the mascot is a violet/the library card catalog, who want to explore, grow, and challenge themselves, in addition to those who are looking to have the time of their lives.

Luke from Spokane, WA

a current student here
45 people found this review useful
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Am learning a lot
New York University offers a learning experience on levels many schools cannot deliver. As with any practical college, the learning is balanced so it takes place in and out of the classroom so that a well-rounded education naturally occurs.

The school's resources (the faculty, the library, and the city itself), are endless, but they are useless to people who don't take advantage of them. Many students can get by at NYU by taking required courses and doing fairly well without actually learning a ton. However, those students who thrive on opportunity and involvement in what they are learning will find a very comfortable place in the culture of New York City.

There's something special when you can learn about Picasso or Ancient Egypt, then take a trip to the Met and see works by Picasso and sculptures out of Egypt first hand, rather than a stylized picture in a text book. The environment of NYU encourages students to take learning from active participation in the city's cultural/intellectual richness and apply it in class. Not many other schools can say the same.
Am enjoying being here
New York University attracts the type of students I would prefer to be in a community with. The students of NYU are spectacular. They are competitive, interesting, intelligent people who have chosen to engage their lives in their passions. That's why I have fun at NYU.

Going to NYU doesn't just bring the fun of the city, it brings the fun of all the people who choose to go there as well. The students come from every state and so many different countries and bring their unique backgrounds with them creating a fascinating community.

The creative energy pulses everywhere through the streets, there is no such stimulation anywhere else.
Bang for the buck
It's expensive. However, you're going to college for a reason. You're not planning on settling. It's just a matter of how much faith you have in yourself that determines what you are willing to invest.

For some, New York University is a risky investment. Those people content with silently studying in their dorm are better off putting their money elsewhere. For people who get the most out of hands-on learning, New York University is a better investment.

I'm paying for college myself, neck deep in student loans, but I'm confident I made the right decision because I found the experience I was looking for.
Tips for prospective students
You're not going to school because you need to, you're going to school because you want to. Because you won't be satisfied with a life less rich than it could be. Don't settle for being comfortable and don't be intimidated out of being the person you are. You are doing what you want, and not what you're told. If you're going to a large school, in a large city you should be most eager to learn more about yourself and be prepared to accept things you did not know.
Great for these types of students
New York University is wonderful for students who have a grasp of what they care about and who they are, but are willing to remain open-minded about both. New York University is best for the students who can handle constant stimulation from every direction and even better for those who crave it. It's for people who want to explore and share their discoveries for the advancement of themselves and their fellow man.

Stephanie from Great Neck, NY

a current student here
20 people found this review useful
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Am learning a lot
It is not a question of if you will lear a lot its the immense options of what to learn that is the problem. Wether you choose to major in Happiness and Sex in our Galltin school, fufill your dream of holding that Oscar or majoring in our top business school. NYU honestly has it all. As soon as you step outside of the classroom, you enter a whole new world of learning and possibilites. I cringe a little as a say this, but as cliche as it sounds, the City is your playground/classroom. You will learn the ins and outs of the city, learn first hand the living habits of neighbor Jude Law and where the cheapest/best chinese food is.

However, Im not going to lie and say that it is not hard, no matter what major you are Happiness or Pre-med, NYU is first and foremost a prestigious university and there is a reason for that. School work is hard, but is it well worth is? YES.
Am enjoying being here
What is so unique about NYU is that you truly learn life long lessonss, the city can be the source of immense opportunities, but it can also turn you cold. It is a large school and it is easy to be overwhelmed with the people, the city and the school. However, you learn to stand on your own, you will gain the skills needed to be truly independent. That is why I truly enjoy being here.

Bang for the buck
Honestly and statistically speaking, NYU has one of the higher price tags compared with other universities. But you also have to take in consideration what the school is offering: bathrooms in every room, dining halls with every possible meal selection, considerably large dorms that would cost a fortune in the city. Also, all the interships and jobs in the city are at your fingertips. So yeah, the cost may be an eyesore at first, but NYU also knows that, there are not many students who are not working, have a scholarship, loan or aid.
Tips for prospective students
VISIT THE SCHOOL. Make sure it is what you want. NYU is a totally different atmosphere than any other school and it is not for everyone. Although, we do welcome those of all shapes and sizes.
Great for these types of students
Like I have mentioned, the school is so large and so full of opportunites it is impossible to point out a steriotypical NYU student. I would say, however, that a person who is definitly a city-person and one who is willing to explore and go on adventures in the city. As Jay-Z and Alica Keys eloquently put it, These streets will make you feel brand new, the lights will inspire you,
Let's hear it for New

Isabella from Los Angeles, CA

a current student here
17 people found this review useful
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In three sentences
new york university is an academically strenuous and challenging school in the heart of downtown new york city. the campus is new york city, with lots of grand old buildings, mainly centered around washington square park. each of their programs are superior to most schools and the workload expected of the students can be daunting at times.
Tips for prospective students
the school is not cheap. new york is a tough city and students must be independent, hard workers to make it in the school, and especially in the city upon graduation. nyu and nyc are not good places to mess around. you've got to be serious. and for the amount of money you're paying, you should be. and most likely if you got in, you will be.
Academic Rigor
it is difficult to understand how the professors expect the students to possibly get all the work done that they have to, but somehow they manage. the courses are definitely difficult, but the plus side of being in new york city is that many of the professors have connections to the industries the students someday hope to be a part of, allowing room for connections and even some in-class field work. new york is pretty much the center of the world, with the forefront of virtually every industry based there.
Dorm Life
there are enough opportunities to get involved in dorm life, but most likely, you will have so much work to do that you wont have time for this. be choosey and save time for what you especially enjoy. ny is a big city, and there is a lot to do off campus.
Food and Dining
food in the dining halls is fine. but, if you can afford it, there are some really spectacular restaurants in greenwich village and beyond. there are also lots of spectacular cheap places to visit. dining in new york is a thrilling hunt that continues in each neighborhood you visit. basically, there is too much good food out there to eat in dining halls all the time.
What to do for fun
the city might be the best thing about the school. people are always on the streets at every hour and it is impossible to be bored. there are 1000s of restaurants, museums, parks, libraries, landmarks, shops and activities to choose from. the school is centered around some very cool neighborhoods (east village, west village, soho, gramercy, tribecca, midtown, chelsea, ect.) but new york is an island filled with something for everyone. the subway makes for easy transportation and city biking is also an option. this is a hard paragraph to respond to because there are too many answers. new york has something for everyone.
Bang for the buck
the school is dramatically more expensive than any school ever should be. it's a joke and who knows how they get away with it. a lot of rich kids go to school here, but there are also a lot of average kids who want it bad enough that they make sacrifices. the best things about the school are 1) the city it is located in, 2) the connections that the professors have to the industries 3) the other students you meet that have a passion for their field as much as you do. those are the things that make nyu stimulating and inspiring.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
flurry is an ice skating party that kicks off the winter season at woolman rink in central park and it is super fun. it's a free event and there is a candy tent, where you can stuff a bag full of candy: for free!
Great for these types of students
hard working driven students. people who find a way and never give up. people who will sacrifice their love lives for the sake of their careers. people who want to be the best. people that want to create something exceptional. people that love an urban environment.
Clubs and Activities
there are about a million clubs at the school. many ways to get involved in whatever it is that you like. there is also an exceptional (expensive) study abroad program that no one has ever had a negative word about. there are alumni programs that will help you find a job, and great career services to benefit from.
Greek Life
there are some fraternities and sororities, but joining them is not necessary to be accepted at the university community.
Campus Safety
it's great. there are nyu busses, security guards everywhere, and if you ever need a ride from one nyu location to another, usually late at night, security will pick you up and take you to your desired on campus location. the security staff is relatively friendly, but this is ny.

Kat

a current student here
17 people found this review useful
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Am learning a lot
NYU is in a highly populated metropolitan area and as such, it is very diverse. This is true not only in the physical nature of the students, but also in how they think. Therefore, a lot of emphasis is placed on putting problems in many perspectives and thinking about things in new ways, as opposed to traditional memorization. It's also definitely different from the high school experience where there is a set curriculum that a teacher follows. The professors have a lot more leeway than in high school, so their interest shows. With such a diverse student body, there is a huge amount of classes for a student to take, so it definitely encourages me to step outside of what I'm used to and study a new subject. As far as personal attention goes, the faculty always makes time if you need help (they have office hours, but they'll also make appointments with you if you e-mail them) and NYU provides tutoring for most subjects. The departments themselves often offer tutoring hours and if you're confused, most likely other kids are too, so working together is often useful. Also, the large lectures (which for me have been at most around 100 kids) are supplemented with recitations, which usually consist of 20 or so kids to go over the lecture.
Am enjoying being here
NYU is a unique experience. Since it's not really a college campus and is instead a jumble of assorted buildings around the city, it doesn't attract the same type of people who are attracted to a small-scale rural school. Also, since NYU is a high-standard-academics university, almost all of the kids understand that their education comes first, so if you enjoy intellectual discussions and humour, NYU is the place to go! In terms of things to do you would never be bored. There's always something to do. You can join clubs (there's a club for pretty much anything, or you can make a new one), play sports, take a sports class, see a play, go to the park, visit the shops, ride the subway, go to concerts, dance at clubs, visit museums, etc. Anything you want to do, you can find in the city. NYU offers cheap tickets for plays and sports and movies and the like, which is quite nice. Also, NYU often sponsors free events such as special seminars, concerts, and movies. If you like to read, the NYU library is huge with over 3 million books. Plus, NYU offers these free language courses to help you learn to speak another language (and you can take a bunch per semester).
Bang for the buck
Some people label NYU as a playground for rich kids, which is kind of true. However, it's only that expensive because you are paying for some of the best--fantastic education that is well respected in the global community, numerous dining halls with really good quality (Asian, sandwiches, health food, Italian, desserts, homey, etc.), all of the clubs and organizations that make it possible to stand out on your future endeavors, volunteer projects to help the community, sports equipment, etc. You are paying for some of the best professors around, with some of the best research facilities and equipment. The residence halls are, for the most part, air conditioned, private, and spacious (private bathrooms are nice too). It is expensive to live in the city, and even more so to go to NYU, but I think that it should be seen as an investment for your future. NYU is one of the few prestigious colleges in NYC, and a lot of opportunities and money are in NYC. The connections you can make here and NYU's name can get you far in NYC. As I stated previously, you are paying for the diversity to see things in new ways and to experience things you've never experienced. For almost the same price as NYU in NYC, sometimes even less, you can study abroad for a semester in one of NYU's sites abroad. Lastly, NYU has an excellent career center that can hook you up with internships, long-term jobs, short-term jobs, and experience. It's definitely worth it. Plus, the gym membership is pretty awesome. Great gyms.
Tips for prospective students
The first few days are tough because you don't know anyone, but neither does anyone else. Once you get into your schedule, you'll start picking up friends according to what you like, such as in class, clubs and sports. And if you're introverted, it won't really work here, because with so many students you need to speak up and make yourself stand out. Also, make sure you take full advantage of your resources. NYU has so many resources, and the job market is competitive, so you should try and make yourself more interesting by taking up activities and getting relevant experience under your belt. College grades DO matter, especially when you're an undergraduate and you will probably change your major. When you go into college, maybe you think you're going to major in something simple where grades don't matter, but maybe after a year you'll realize you want to be a doctor and have to apply to medical school. Always remember why you're paying $56,000. If you're going to goof off, go to a cheap school.
Great for these types of students
Generally, people who are bright, motivated, outgoing, mature, creative, open-minded, independent, and confident will succeed here. If you are bright and motivated you will do well, and if you are outgoing and confident you will form relations with your peers and professors. The mature and independent attitude is necessary because there are a lot of distractions in the city. Creativity and open-mindedness is necessary because of the diversity at NYU. This is definitely not the college for someone who wants the classic college campus experience with frat parties and no other people besides students. It's also good for people who work well with stress.

Henry from New York, NY

a current student here
16 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
The professors are really helpful and they inspire you. Though I have early morning lectures, my professors then seemed to me like beacons of information. Get to know them better. They really want to know you well. For example, I don't feel bothered when I had a conversation in the elevator with my chemistry professor. Nor was he. And I would walk down a block discussing sociology with one of my professors. They really enjoy it. Don't feel weirded out. It's a grade-maker.
Am enjoying being here
I thought as a commuter student I would miss out the fun and everything. I was wrong. As a commuter student, I sought ways to build friendships and find fun. You don't need to dorm in order to enjoy college. My group is filled with commuters, and thus we are from the city. Thus we are able to relate to each other things we know. And thus, that allows us to bond faster.
Bang for the buck
55k a year? Shocked? I was too.
Don't worry. Thousands have done it. And they left here calling it a great investment. Don't cut class, spend time with your friends, classmates and professors. Try not to get hooked on parties. That's not what NYU is for, even though it's a party zone around NYU.
Tips for prospective students
-Don't procrastinate, you're only going to hurt yourself.
-If you live in the city, COMMUTE.
-If you commute, avoid taking 8 AM classes.
-Learn time management skills.
-Really get to know your professors.
-Forge friendships. Really.
-Work both academically and non-academically. Like find a job.
-Sleep.
Great for these types of students
-People who consider shelling 40-50k a year to be an investment
-People who enjoy the big city campus
-People who want to come here and have a future and enjoy the now
-People who have a future
-Determined people

Ian from Marietta, GA

a current student here
14 people found this review useful
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In three sentences
NYU isn't a tight-knit campus school because its buildings are scattered throughout Lower Manhattan, so meeting people and developing a network is more difficult than the traditional environment where you may often see the same faces around school. On the flipside, the city life is much envied by others, and you're able to blend into the regular rhythm of the city. The students are often quite divided by their respective schools within NYU, which act almost as a status symbol in the community.
Tips for prospective students
When you come to New York, be ready for extreme variations in temperature and weather when you go outside. If you come from the sunny South, then it might take a while to become used to the gloomy, wet, and dark weather that engulfs the city during the winter. Unless you are in the park, the tall skyscrapers will block most of the sunshine, if any. However, the campus is surrounded by a remarkable patchwork of boutique shops, eccentric lounges, and curio shops. There is more than enough for you and a group of friends to stroll through for many semesters. However, be accustomed the possibilities of the night life; it is not a joke that there are odd people and odd things that appear when the sun sets. Because NYC has such a well-developed infrastructure, take it upon yourself to explore the city, and the landmarks. In all honesty, I'm not going to repeat the same answers given by school officials. Living here, you will see that every stereotype of New York City is true. It is the world's craziest city, and all your perceptions and notions of what it is, are indeed true.
Academic Rigor
If you are applying, or have been accepted to Stern, then I will begin by telling you to work exceptionally hard. The first year will incorporate several classes in other schools and departments, but the few Stern classes you may have will be tough unless you put in 110% every day. Stern has an unruly grading curve, where you are expected to perform flawlessly to earn an A, not to mention an A+. Don't be tricked by low levels of coursework throughout the semester because small assignments are often graded harshly and account for huge grade percentages. From what I hear of friends in other schools, the College of Arts and Sciences is quite demanding in their levels of coursework, and you will be required to schedule many hours of laboratory if you pursue the Sciences. Also, do not be misled by the perception that Liberal Studies is the runt of the school, and therefore the students there have little work. My roommate has little work, but others who have enrolled in tough classes are quite often buried under mountains of work. Tisch has, by far, the least rigorous curriculum, but for what it lacks in academic rigor is made up by its demand for creative talent, imagination, and innovation.
Dorm Life
Dorm life is exceptional at NYU; however, I cannot stress the importance of finding roommates that are suitable to your personality and living habits. Allowing the University housing system to randomly place you with someone is very risky, and can ruin your entire first year, if not entire college experience. To play it safe, (if you have the option), find someone from your high school to room with. By growing up and living in the same area, it is safe to say that they maintain similar living standards as yourself. But, all in all, there is no trump card to play, and housing is perhaps the craziest wild card you'll ever encounter. When you do become situated with dorm life, it is very comfortable and pleasingly social. Coming from a Hayden resident, I can say that Hayden is known for its parties and social crowd, but other dorms are quite rowdy themselves. Hayden is a very old building, and comes with odd smells with every floor. However, that means that each floor grows very close with each other, even between floors as well. It is difficult to meet, hang out, and get to know most of the people on your floor the first couple weeks, but by Midterms, you'll have bumped into each other so much that you start to hang out and talk. Of course, you shouldn't walk into dorm life expecting to become a huge family, exchanging every moment of your lives. Being a little shy myself, I couldn't make friends with the entire school in one night, and Welcome Week events didn't help that much. Creating a new network of friends was not painful, but was not a walk in the park either. Just find it in yourself to be friendly, and friends with come.
One of the biggest issues prospective freshmen may consider is security and safety. Honestly, people may say that things get stolen all the time, but on my floor, everyone tends to be honest and hold a higher moral ground. Of course, lock your doors when you're out of the room, and take standard safety procedures, but people that go to a...
Food and Dining
Food and Dining is much better than what you would expect. Current students often tell you that the food is terrible, but remember that they've been eating the same variety of food for many years, so of course, they'd be sick of it. The food offered at Weinstein and Hayden are varied and consistently quality foods; every residence hall offers special nights, for example when Rubin offers steak night every Friday. But for you to find your favorite location, you must visit each dining hall. For one of the nicest dining halls, you can go to the Palladium residence hall. It is a sophomore residence hall, but it also houses one of the two NYU gyms and the Wasserman Career Center. The Palladium dining hall offers a delicious deli, sizzling pizzeria, made-to-order sushi, and hot grill line. Its philly cheesesteak, combined with seasoned waffle fries, are legendary.
For my dietary plan, I eat several small meals throughout the day, so I often get a to-go box that you can fill up with as much food as you can fit. Of course, each meal swipe is all you can eat, so you're welcome to sit down and eat until your stomach bursts. From breakfast until dinner, dining halls have waffle makers, cereal bars, salad bars, and a deli to satisfy whatever you crave.
Also, there are specialized dining halls like Kimmel and Weinstein's Kosher that offer entirely Vegan or Kosher menus. Each semester you are given dining dollars, and across the street from the Library is a Starbucks where you can spend those dining dollars without spending out of your wallet. Dining dollars are pre-loaded on your NYU ID card like a gift card, and you can spend it at small grocery-like pantries in the dining halls. These pantries offer everything from toilet paper to frozen pizza, and dining dollars carry over from Fall to Spring semesters (but not from year to year, like Spring to Fall), so if you can't spend it all, it will carry over and then you can bust it all on Red Bull during Spring finals.
What to do for fun
To be honest, I don't know if I can accurately describe the culture of the City without writing a book. First are the clubs, lounges, restaurants, and cafes around the general campus. What everyone does the first couple weeks is explore the city. Walk around, and go window shopping! I didn't find out 5th Avenue was two minutes from my residence hall until halfway through fall semester. So, if you don't want to eat Italian cannoli or classic cheesecake, take a walk down 5th Avenue, or Broadway and experience the culmination of the world's most exclusive styles, fashion, and design statements. NYU is situated in Greenwich Village, and if you can't find anything to do here, you won't be able to find anything to do anywhere. Food is an infinite experience in the city. Pizza is a dollar a slice, and halal carts run every street corner. All the attractions of New York City are at arms reach. You can take a subway to virtually anywhere in Manhattan, and beyond. Whether its going to Columbia to visit friends, or to Times Square (especially on Halloween and New Years), any traveling is entirely in your reach. Before the weather gets cold, Washington Square Park has a giant fountain that becomes a massive tourist attraction. So if you want to stay local, grab a cup of coffee and sit down in the park or Gould Plaza and read a book to the sounds of the city. If you don't mind the travel, which isn't that long to begin with, take a stroll through Central Park. It is something that you'll rarely get the chance to do once classes begin, but make sure to take advantage of Central Park, especially in the sunny months. In addition to the regular shopping and eating, remember that New York City is home to some of the world's most exclusive fine arts. Whether its the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera, or the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the arts are at our fingertips ready to cultivate young and cultured minds. Because we are NYU students, our student IDs often mean stude...
Bang for the buck
It is difficult to gauge the bang for the buck, because the school is rather expensive, but financial aid varies heavily from student to student. In addition, I feel that perception of bang for the buck changes from person to person in their appreciation and adjustment to city life, and their overall adaption to the University, its officers, and its facilities. Since this topic is highly subjective, I'd recommend any prospective student to visit and spend a day or two walking around and attending some classes. Some students are in love with the city, and are willing to shell out almost, or full tuition to attend. However, some students hate the city and cannot stand the constant hustle and bustle. They would choose a university that stands in a college-town, and quite possibly transfer out of NYU their first year.
If you were to ask for my personal preference, I would say that my rating of bang for the buck lies somewhat linearly with the rest of the country. I believe that attending Stern for its business program and exposure to an industry of my dreams and hopes is worth the money, but again, this is a rather complicated topic and almost entirely relies on the factors of life and experience that surround and have surrounded you.
Campus Safety
Campus Safety is great, but I believe that the school's emphasis on the presence of officers misleads prospective students into thinking that we live in a dangerous area. Do not be afraid to walk around at night because the city is quite alive at night. However, this is not to say that you should not be wary when you walk alone, say, at 2am from the library. I believe this a much stronger issue for upperclassmen as their residence halls are much farther away from the centralized campus than freshmen dorms. Upperclassmen will most likely invest in bikes, or use the services of NYU Safe Ride.

Naja from Newark, NJ

a current student here
13 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
It amazes me how hungry my brain is for more these days!
Am enjoying being here
During summer breaks, I dream about moving back in on-campus and resuming my studies!
Bang for the buck
I will admit, it's a pretty penny, but worth it! The reputation of NYU is far-reaching in NUMEROUS fields of study!
Tips for prospective students
First and foremost, be sure you consider all that NYU has to offer from every possible source you can find. It's a great help to read-up on the website, talk to current/past students, send in requests for brochures, and actually visit the campus. Do not allow any one factor to deter you from what I believe to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. The cost to attend is pretty steep for the typical family, but NYU is great about really assisting where possible in financial aid. Don't be shy about reaching out to local organizations, businesses, and even your high school (guidance counselor/school-to-career coordinator) for scholarships. Usually, when they see a motivated student, they are more than happy to help out. If you're unsure about what you want to do, NYU is a great place to really find yourself. The school is set up in such a way that you can take a wide variety of courses so if you don't know where you're headed exactly, don't worry. And New York City is a wonderful place to just be YOU! Any and everybody is accepted here and NYU falls into that same quota. You can be who you are and not worry about people judging you. Diversity is not only accepted here, but encouraged. Please, just be sure not to let one sole reason make or break your decision to attend. Consider all things possible and go with what feels right. Sometimes, when visiting the campuses of your college choices, you can instantly feel if you're going to be at home when you attend! Good luck!
Great for these types of students
Outgoing, vibrant personalities will blossom in the NYU/New York City environment. And even for the shy, reserved types, NYU can be a perfect fit because it is a place that encourages making connections with people. In many cases, it happens effortlessly. It helps to be independent, focused, and a person who exercises self-restraint. New York City is literally the city that NEVER sleeps. Therefore, there's always something to do. That can be detrimental if you're not careful. Be sure you have everything in order as far as your academics are concerned. It's easy to forget the real reason why you chose NYC/NYU: your education. And ultimately, this school is perfect for you if you love being your own person. Individuality is a cherished gem at NYU!

David from Boston,MA

a current student here
11 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
Am learning a lot
All the teachers are very knowledgeable and open to working with students outside of class. The classes are hard and demand a lot of work as well as a lot of reading. Considering this I have learned in 1 semester than I've learned in a whole year of high school.
Am enjoying being here
It's a great college and being in New York City provides many unique opportunities. There are almost no frat parties or sports events so weekends usually consist of going to apartment parties, concerts and bars/clubs or doing anything else imaginable in the city. Only downside is you should expect to spend money.
Bang for the buck
Everything here is top notch though for 60,000 a year they could provide a few more services. The mandatory meal plan freshman year is too costly for a very strict meal plan and the housing is a bit pricey but so is everything around it.
Tips for prospective students
If you consider a good college experience to be frat parties, tail-gating sporting events and bro-culture then this is not the place for you. NYU is a college in and of the city so expect to have to make your own fun. You have the whole city to explore, use it.
Great for these types of students
This is hipsters paradise, everything is about fashion, music and taste here. If you are a bro you will feel out of place due to the striking lack of bros. It's also great for people who like to be independent.

Teodoro from New York City, NY

a current student here
10 people found this review useful
CategoriesComments
In three sentences
NYU is a professional, inclusive, top level university and community. Academically it has blown me away with all the available resources, classes, and quality of professors and equipment. Socially I have found the NYU community to be very inclusive, friendly, and diverse; where everyone can find their niche due to the above 50k student population.
Tips for prospective students
When you apply, include every positive aspect of your life in your application. NYU looks not only for high academic progress, but it examines every candidate holistically and want their students to be diverse and passionate in their interests and abilities.
Academic Rigor
Yes, NYU requires a lot of dedication in order to succeed and make the most out of your education, but it pays off! I feel like if you are doing what you are passionate about, it won't feel like a struggle to study and show up to class because you will be surrounded by people who love doing what you love, and you will have the chance to focus very closely in your specific interests in your area of study. For example, I study film and I get to take multiple courses in sound design, soundscaping, and mixing which is my passion within film.
Dorm Life
Because I'm a transfer student I opted to live off campus after one summer term living on campus. The dorms are pretty great compared to my previous university. The main benefit is that whether its a room or a suite, they all have private bathrooms for the people living in the room or apartment. No need to share a bathroom with your entire hall, which was my case before coming here. Moreover the apartment-dorms all have a kitchen area with fridge, oven/stove, and cabinets so you do not depend on dining halls to be open to eat a meal.

The one drawback about NYU dorms is... They are expensive, very expensive, but if you want to live on campus maybe at least for the first year it might be worth it. They do not require students to live on campus, though.
Food and Dining
Dining halls at NYU are pretty good overall. They have ones that have chains within them like chick-a-fillet, and jamba juice, and ones that simply serve food made then and there. I like to keep a balance between both types of dining halls as you won't find salads and "home-made" style food in the first type.
What to do for fun
I love just going around the city and discovering everything it has to offer, it's a lot! Around campus there are great dining spots, athletic facilities, clubs and bars (for those 21+), as well as many city parks, skate spots, etc. I live off campus in Harlem so I also don't limit my daily activities to campus and think that no one at NYU should limit themselves to the campus. There are so many fun things to do in LES, midtown, and especially other burroughs like Brooklyn, and Queens, where I think you get the "real New York experience."
Bang for the buck
Coming to NYU is definitely an investment. It won't be cheap, it won't be easy, but if you are dedicated to your passion and know that is what you want to do for the rest of your life, this is the place for you. NYU will do everything in its power to empower you to become the best professional you can be. It will provide you with great professors, amazing resources, and surround you with thousands of other immensely talented and inspirational students who are on the same boat as you to follow their dreams in becoming the best in their field.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
NYU is known to not be a traditional university, so don't expect much tailgating or traditions like the naked-run. At NYU theres a weird tradition that says the if you walk under the arch at Washington Square Park as a student, you won't graduate or it will take you longer to graduate. I didn't know this until my second semester and having walked under the arch many times I hope it's not true!
Great for these types of students
Again, NYU is for those who are PASSIONATE about their field of study, and whom are 100% dedicated to their goals. If you put in the work, you will most certainly come out of NYU with a good job in your field and feeling fulfilled with your college experience.
Clubs and Activities
There are so many organized activities at NYU it's crazy. There are all types of intramural and club sports that you can do including things like bowling and videogames, as well as your usual sports (basketball, soccer, etc). Moreover, they organize fun events that you just need to be in tune for; I've went laser tagging and paintballing twice through NYU for free!
They have cultural events within and off campus, religious and ethnic events where you can meet people with similar backgrounds as yours, and events at your school or for your major to meet people with your interests.
Lastly, there are a huge amount of clubs at NYU that you can get involved with ranging to the wildest possibilities (like Ninja club!).
Greek Life
Yes, greek life at NYU isn't huge, but there is definitely a Greek community for those who want to get involved. Personally I'm not involved in Greek life but have met a lot of people who are and many more that are interested to join. I think this is a good thing in a way because people in Greeek life end up not only hanging out amongst each other but finding many different groups to circulate in.
Campus Safety
Hey, this is New York City. Is it the safest city in the world? No. Is it safer than most places in the world (including where I'm from)? Yes. At NYU most people feel really safe and safety is not a general concern. On campus there is a huge NYU security force roaming around by foot and on cars. To get into any NYU building you have to show ID, and to enter any of the dorms you need to have someone who lives there check you in at the front desk. Personally I don't see how the campus could get any safer.

All the incidents we hear about are pick pocketing and things of the sort. In conclusion, the safest measure you can take is if you are walking around NYC at night, don't go alone and always be aware of your surroundings. No this is not la-la land but it is a very safe city and a great place to start your academic and professional career.