Thoughts on College in Troy, NY?

I'm a high school junior looking into colleges, and I've found some options in Troy, NY. What are your experiences with colleges in Troy, NY? How's the quality of education, campus vibe, and student life there? Would appreciate any info!

I'm familiar with a couple of colleges in Troy, NY: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and Russell Sage College. Here's a brief overview:

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is a well-regarded private research institution known for its strong STEM programs, particularly engineering and computer science. The quality of education is high, with rigorous coursework and access to hands-on research opportunities. Campus life can be demanding due to the intensity of the academics, but students with a passion for their subjects tend to thrive. The student population leans heavily towards the STEM subjects, so the campus vibe is fairly tech-oriented. There are many clubs and organizations, but know that the focus is primarily academic and driven by students' passion for their fields.

Russell Sage College is a private liberal arts college initially established as a women's college, but recently became co-ed in 2020. It offers a diverse range of majors, such as nursing, psychology, and creative arts. The campus vibe is more intimate than RPI, with an emphasis on discussion-based learning and close relationships between faculty and students. Student life is more focused on community engagement and extracurricular activities, which helps strike a balance between academics and social life.

Keep in mind that everyone's experience may vary, so I recommend reaching out to current students or alumni and also doing some virtual or in-person campus visits to see if either of these colleges feels like a good fit for you.