7 Great Colleges in New York to Consider Applying to ...

1. Cornell University

Without any research you probably already know that Cornell University is one of the most prestigious Ivy League schools around the world. It offers great education and has a great social scene, so you can be confident that you will get a complete college experience. One of reasons why I applied to Cornell University was because I have spent all my life living in the city and I wanted a change in the environment. In addition, Cornell has a lot of things to offer, it has amazing overseas programs and research opportunities that are hard to pass on. Although it is a reach school for most, don’t be afraid to test your luck! It is one of the best colleges in New York after all.

2. Columbia University

Columbia University is another Ivy League school located in the center of one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It offers a core curriculum to every student in order to shape him or her to become well-rounded. Alongside quality education, Columbia has great sport teams, clubs and Greek life. However, just like any other Ivy League college, it requires plenty of work to get in.

3. Barnard College

If Columbia is your dream school and you cannot risk not getting in, another option is Barnard College. It is a private women’s liberal arts college that is one of the original ‘seven sister’ colleges. Those who get into it have the opportunity to take classes at Columbia University, so essentially it is the same thing as going to Columbia University, just without the official title. Nonetheless, Barnard is a great college itself that offers a high education alongside lots of cultural and social opportunities.

4. Binghamton University

Binghamton University is often referred to as the Ivy League school of state colleges. It is a highly ranked public research university located in Vestal, New York. Aside from being one of the best educational places when it comes to state colleges, it doesn’t lack in learning opportunities nor in great residential experiences.

5. Stony Brook University

Although Stony Brook University is not yet considered to be up there with some of the top colleges, it is a great place to end up in nonetheless. It is one of the top 3 colleges in the SUNY system, it has a strong scientific base and it has an affordable tuition in comparison to other schools. So if you see yourself entering a scientific field in the future, don’t hesitate to put Stony Brook on your college list.

6. NYU

NYU is another prestigious school that is worth giving a shot. Although it does come with great expenses, you can always try to get financial aid or apply for scholarships. NYU offers a variety of fields that range from premed to performing arts. It is a place that will enrich your mind not only on an intellectual level but also on a cultural level. Just know that NYU is pretty much on everyone’s college list so competition will be at its highest.

7. Hunter College

However, if you are aiming to get into a CUNY college, Hunter College is the one to look out for. While I do hold it to be as great as Baruch College, Hunter is better if you are looking at it from a medical perspective. However, keep in mind that if you want to enter a CUNY college, you should consider applying for the Macaulay Program. It offers full ride tuition with all expenses covered, plus a free laptop - that is, of course, if you are chosen amongst thousands of other applicants.

New York is a great place to be when it comes to colleges; it offers a variety of environments that people can choose for themselves. So if your college application process is soon approaching, hopefully you have gained some insight into some of these schools. What is your dream college to get into?