New York University

As a freshman I have to admit that I was absolutely miserable. Issues of class (social not academic) seem to constitute the number one complaint on this site. Coming from a lower-class family and armed with financial aid I was shocked at the over-abundance of trust fund students. And its true that being a poor student in Manhattan is extremely difficult, especially when those around you dont have the same kinds of financial limitations. HOWEVER, if you can weather it out for the first year things inevitably improve, just like any other school. Yes, its overwhelming at first but the rewards are amazing if just in terms of independance. Many of my friends from high school graduated from their respective universities far more sheltered than students from NYU. As many people here have pointed out, the school doesnt hold your hand. This can be an enormous problem your freshman year and yes, i would recommend that you really think about what a large challenge you are taking on before you decide on this particular school. But the drawbacks people have mentioned (class, forced independance) really prepare you to deal with things you are going to encounter after graduation, like it or not. If you can get a little creative with money, tread water the first year and most importantly take it all with a good sense of humor you'll do just fine.

4th Year Female -- Class 2003

Useful Schoolwork: A+, Individual Value: F