What are your thoughts on Columbia University?

Hey guys, junior here just starting the whole college search. I've been giving Columbia University some thought lately. But before making any big decisions, I'd love to hear from anyone who's attended or currently attending. How's the academic rigor? Are the professors approachable? What's the workload like? Let's spill the tea!

Columbia University is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to intellectual rigor and world-class faculty. As an Ivy League institution located in New York City, it offers students an unparalleled academic experience coupled with rich cultural exposure.

When it comes to academic rigor, Columbia is demanding, but the challenge is often seen as rewarding by its students. The university follows a core curriculum model, ensuring students explore a broad range of disciplines, and develop critical thinking skills. Depending on your major, the workload can be intense, but in the midst of the challenge lies the opportunity to interact with incredibly diverse subject matter.

A common observation among students is that professors are approachable and deeply invested in their subjects. Having world-leading experts as teachers can be inspiring and motivates many students to delve deeper into their chosen field of study. Bear in mind, however, that as in any university, the approachability of professors can vary.

As for the workload, again, it's significant. This is Ivy League territory, after all. But the idea is not just to work hard, but also to grow academically and personally. As Columbia puts it, "it's not so much about the grades but learning how to think critically." This mindset is intrinsic to the culture at Columbia and contributes to preparing its students to become leaders in their chosen fields after graduation.

Columbia thrives on its location in New York City. The city offers countless cultural, educational, and social opportunities. From visits to world-renowned museums to internships at top-tier companies, the benefits of Columbia's location are immeasurable.

However, it's also essential to consider aspects like the university urban setting, the independent nature of student life, the cost of living in New York City, and how comfortable you'd be in a large, bustling city. These are factors that can significantly impact your college experience.

In the end, Columbia's commitment to intellectual exploration, its core curriculum, and its New York City location create a distinctive academic and cultural environment. While it can be rigorous and challenging, many find these aspects rewarding and integral to their personal and intellectual growth.