Hey guys, I've been looking into Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY but I'm having a tough time finding detailed info. Things like life on campus, strength of engineering programs, etc. Does anyone have an insider view?
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is a private research university primarily known for its engineering and applied science programs. In terms of strength, its engineering programs consistently rank among the top tier in the United States. The college offers more than 145 programs across five schools. Notably, the most popular majors are in Engineering, Computer and Information Sciences, and Biological and Biomedical Sciences.
On campus, you'll find a mixture of well-maintained historic buildings and newer, technologically advanced facilities. For example, the Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) is a cutting-edge building with modern audio-visual tech that's not only a hub for arts and performances, but also for interdisciplinary research.
With more than 200 student organizations, there's an active student life on campus. From professional groups like American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics to cultural groups such as the South Asian Student Association, there's a diverse mix of clubs to take part in. RPI also has a busy Greek life, with about 20% of students joining fraternities and sororities.
Their NCAA Division III sports teams, called the Engineers, are active in a range of sports like soccer, baseball, swimming, and notably, one of the oldest collegiate hockey programs in the U.S.
As for the community outside the university, Troy, NY has a historic downtown with a range of restaurants, shops, and cultural events just a short walk from the campus. The city is also host to markets, festivals, and musical performances throughout the year.
RPI does has a relatively rigorous academic program which can be challenging, but many students find the experience is worth it. As all schools, it's best to consider what you're looking for in a university and how well RPI aligns with those goals.
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