When it comes to choosing the right college, the campus and the overall culture play a critical role. Some might be interested in a college town atmosphere with a big football team. Others might be interested in a big campus in a cool town. For those who thrive in the bustling energy of urban life, there are plenty of great schools in the hearts of vibrant cities.
NYU
The Big Apple!!! What’s not to love? Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, NYU (a true city campus) gives students pretty much unmatched access to everything New York has to offer. From culture and food, to internship opportunities and a diverse community, being in the hustle and bustle of lower Manhattan is a one-of-a-kind experience for young people.
U of Chicago
Situated in Chicago’s Hyde Park, the University of Chicago is one of the top schools in the nation. It’s renowned for its STEM programs and a great option for research-focused students who can brave the cold of the Windy City. Chicago also has a tremendous amount to offer in the way of culture, arts, food and just plain fun. It’s a school for high-achievers who can appreciate the goings-on of a world-class city.
Penn
It doesn’t get more beautiful than Penn as far as a city campus goes. Nestled right in Philadelphia, Penn’s campus really offers the best of it all: a traditional-looking Ivy League campus experience, right in the heart of a major city. Penn is also the number one Ivy League for study abroad, so it’s a great school for those who might went to spend a little bit of time away from the City of Brotherly Love, too.
Columbia
Columbia University is an Ivy League right in New York City, and its allure extends beyond its distinguished reputation. Nestled in the heart of Morningside Heights, NYC. Those looking for a beautiful, Ivy campus in a major city should look no further than Columbia (unless they’re looking to Penn, too). Columbia is a great place for those interested in being in on the action, from politics and protests, to theater, to music, to food, and everything else New York has to offer.
GW
GW's Foggy Bottom campus in Washington, D.C. is right in the backyard of the political epicenter of the nation. Those who are interested in pursuing a career in politics or government should seriously consider GW. D.C. is also a great town for those who aren’t necessarily interested in sitting in a legislative session. The city's monuments, museums, and cultural happenings are all world-class and at the fingertips of all college students who live there.
Boston University
Boston is an amazing college town in and of itself with 44 higher education institutions in the city. BU is a great option for those interested in diving right into Boston with its exceptional intellectual vibe, wonderful museums, championship sports teams, and student life everywhere you look. Oh, it’s also walkable! It’s a really great town for anyone who can handle the winter.
Northeastern
Another great urban Boston school, Northeastern students tend to be pretty integrated into the city itself. Northeastern’s curriculum emphasizes real-world working experience. The co-op model allows students to work and intern throughout the Boston area across all kinds of industries.
UCLA
Los Angeles is big and sprawling, but if you can deal with that, UCLA students get the best of many worlds: Hollywood, gorgeous beaches, hiking, food and culture…it’s all there. Located in Los Angeles’s Westwood neighborhood, UCLA is part of the UC system. It’s a city school with a sports college vibe and great academics.
When considering applying to a city school, it’s important to really imagine yourself in that location and see if you envision yourself in an urban environment. The best course of action is to visit the schools on your college list (or campuses like them) to really make sure you have a sense for what it will be like.
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