Columbia Campus - What's it like?

Hey everyone, I'm seriously considering applying to Columbia for my undergrad. Can anyone share their experiences of living on the NYC campus? Anything from campus vibes to local amenities, I want the whole scoop!

Columbia University, located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, offers a unique blend of urban life and campus community. The campus itself is a stunning architectural feat, complete with classic buildings like the majestic Butler Library and Alma Mater's iconic statue. Despite being in the middle of a bustling city, the school has many green spaces, like the popular hangout spot on Low Steps, providing students with a temporary oasis from the city's fast pace.

One of the highlights of Columbia is its core curriculum. This means every student will take a set of common classes, creating a shared intellectual experience regardless of major. This fosters a vibrant intellectual community where conversations often extend beyond classrooms and into the residential halls.

In regards to local amenities, you will have access to everything NYC has to offer. From diverse food options within walking distance from campus to museums and art galleries, students have plenty of opportunities to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the city. Plus, public transportation is easily accessible, which makes exploring the city convenient.

However, living in a large city may also present some challenges. Noise is a constant, the cost of living is higher compared to other places, and the pace of life may feel overwhelming at first. If you're someone who is accustomed to a quieter, more suburban environment, this might require some adjustment.

In terms of safety, while Morningside Heights is generally safe, like any city, you should still be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. Thankfully, Columbia University has a dedicated public safety department that works around the clock to ensure the well-being of its students.

Finally, the student body at Columbia is very diverse, with students coming from all over the world. This creates an environment where students can interact with and learn from peers with different backgrounds and perspectives, enhancing their overall educational experience.

In summary, studying at Columbia provides students with an exceptional academic experience amidst an unparalleled urban backdrop, offering a vibrant and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Life on Columbia's campus offers an intellectual community, rich historical architecture, and diverse tastes of New York City — all nestled in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities.