Understanding Columbia Students

Hey everybody, a bit of a different question here – I'm trying to figure out what values, attributes, and interests are common among Columbia students. What do they prioritize and focus on, both academically and personally? Any insights from Columbia students/alum or people who have researched the school would be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

One of the core experiences unique to a Columbia College student's life is the Core Curriculum, a broad, liberal arts-centric curriculum that all Columbia students must take. The Core is deeply valued by the Columbia community and tends to shape the mindset of its students. Through the Core, Columbia students are encouraged to engage in intellectual debates and critical thinking, and they often show strong interests in a wide variety of academic fields, not just their major.

Columbia students often prioritize becoming "global citizens". There's a focus on understanding multiple cultures and worldviews, and there's a high international student population that further fosters this trend. You can see this global interest reflected in the university's numerous study abroad programs and international-themed clubs and events.

Additionally, many Columbia students are ambitious and entrepreneurial. This can be seen in the wide array of projects, startups, and initiatives that are constantly popping up on campus. The university's location in New York City plays a significant role in this, offering access to a vast array of internships, jobs, and networking opportunities. Commitment to social impact and activism are also common, with many student-led initiatives and campaigns across a range of social, environmental, and political issues.

It's worth noting, however, that the student body is incredibly diverse and you will find students with a plethora of differing interests. But it's safe to say that the aforementioned qualities - intellectual curiosity, global citizenry, and ambition - are widely shared among the student body.