New York University

First off, before I get into any negativity, I love NYU. I really do. I moved here from California knowing no one - so had I decided to sulk in my homesickness, this school would have been very lonely, indeed. We're all big kids now, no one is going to hold your hand and make sure that you're doing okay. YOU have to make effort. It is a bit of a downside and you will feel lost at first, but it's nothing that a little socializing can't fix. Secondly, I like to party and have fun on the weekends. So does just about everyone else here, the only problem is that parties in New York City are not the same as parties in a college town. They cost money and it all adds up quickly, unfortunately. Many nights I would get dressed up, ready to go to fun rooftop parties only to find they were a bust. Also, if you have your heart set on a campus with tons of school spirit and big sports and a nice traditional campus... this school may not be for you. There is no school spirit and there is no traditional campus BUT NYU still kicks ass. My biggest piece of advice is to get ready for serious competition. Remember how in high school there were those kids who weren't the brightest? Yeah, at NYU those kids don't exist. Everyone is talented and everyone is smart and if you're competitive academically, it can be SO intimidating. I've spent so much time doubting my intelligence and my ability to match up to the kids here...don't do that. If you get in, there's a reason. You can do it and you're just as good as anyone else.

1st Year Female -- Class 2017

Campus Aesthetics: A+, Useful Schoolwork: B

I used this site when I chose NYU, so I wanted to contribute back now that I have graduated.Be open and try your best not to have preconceived notions. DONT worry if the first semester is rough, it takes awhile to get used to things. Have NYU pride, join clubs/greek life, and don't be afraid to break out of your shell. You will find NYU happiness, you will be stressed, you will be so busy you don't know what to do with yourself, but it will be awesome. The NYU Health and Wellness center is fantastic, do NOT be afraid to reach out to them. NYU will make you a better person and teach you life skills both in and out of the classroom. NYU students are some of the smartest most dedicated people in the world. You will absolutely LOVE some and absolutely HATE some of them. You can find literally any kind of person/club/group at NYU. I look back at my experience and I am astounded at all the wonderful/amazing/crazy things I managed to do. IF you DONT like your advisor, ask for a new one. You got to push to get the things you want from this school, whether that means patiently waiting on hold with financial aid, going to your teacher's office hours when you want to do better on the next paper or running for an NYU club exec board position. At NYU the squeaky wheel gets the oil, never forget that. Enjoy NYC, don't freak out too much. Study appropriate, not too little, but DONT LOCK YOURSELF IN BOBST FOR ETERNITY (except during midterms/finals). EXPERIENCE the city/internships/drunch/more.

Alumnus Male -- Class 2000