New York University Top Questions

Someone that is shy and introverted. There is so much to see and do - so many opportunities - that you need to go out of your comfort zone to take advantage of all the opportunities and to meet new people. Also, someone that isn't afraid of a big city like NYC.

The kind of person that should not consider attending NYU is one that does not take school seriously. NYU is a fabulous school and an amazing opportunity for serious students who want education and to create a career. Having students there that do not take education as seriously as others is an offense to every other student that works extremely hard for years to get where they are in present time. I find it highly annoying when I am surrounded by people who could care less that they have been accepted into one of the world's best colleges.

An extremely lazy person should not attend this school. Going to NYU requires a lot of walking, as the campus is spread out over many blocks, and a lot of work, as it is one of the top schools in the nation. One cannot simply remain in their dorm for much of the day or skip lectures, as professors are strict and demand perfection.

If you're not ready to be wrong, to make a mistake, or to be challenged to rethink your college ideal, don't bother going to NYU. I thought I wouldn't mind a non traditional campus, a huge student body, and the bustling city, but I was wrong. NYU has proven brochures and tours don't show you everything. Some students can't handle the idea that they've picked the wrong school, but it does happen, and your readiness to accept this and make the best of it could determine how awesome or dreadful freshman year will be.

A person who wants to be proud of what college they attend. There is no school spirit at NYU, so someone who isn't individualistic shouldn't consider it.

Students that lack independence should either learn to be more independent or look at different schools. N.Y.U. is a school that requires students to be very independent and self-efficient. N.Y.U. is also not a traditional college; it's very much integrated with the city. So students looking for the traditional on-campus college experience would not fair well here. One of my friends actually transferred this semester due to the lack of "traditionalism" on campus. But if you love the city, then N.Y.U. is definitely for you.

People that think New York City is the big ticket. There are no real big tickets (pardon my pessimism). People who have a problem with any type of establishment. Especially one that claims to be liberal and for the students. but in reality doesn't make many (at least public) efforts to do so.

someone who is looking for a fraternity/sorority campus like environment, dependent, and close-minded

I think with my university it's really hit or miss. Living in a fast paced environment like New York can be overwhelming . Also, the large student body may be a little overbearing to some. Overall, someone who is looking for a small campus and who strongly dislikes the city life should not go to this school.

Students unsure of what they wish to study tend to have trouble at NYU because most of the programs have very specific course requirements that are specialized to that degree. Social life is also difficult at NYU for shy students as the school, in general, doesn't have a real sense of community. Those who seek out clubs and organizations to join will find a more open social atmosphere, but most students tend to make friends elsewhere.

Any student that is not a hard worker and academically focused should not attend this school. If he or she is not self-motivated, focused, and dedicated to achievement he or she will not perform well at this school. Students looking for a school with a large greek life, a lot of school spirit, and popular sporting events (including a football team) should not attend NYU.

people who would get homesick, people who are more conservative, people who are not tolerant of others (racially, culturally, sexually-oriented, etc.), people who do not like the city, people who do not like a fast-paced lifestyle, people who prefer having a campus, people who prefer smaller schools

Those unwilling to put in effort.

Those who do not appreciate the city lifestyle. Those who do not thrive in environments wherein they must fend for themselves.

Prior to my arrival, I was told that it was easy to feel isolated at NYU - reasons being from the sweeping expanse of New York City as your campus to the fact that there is no such thing as football and tailgates; that it was necessary to put yourself out there and actively seek friendships. I transitioned easily, but NYU is usually not for those who find that fact daunting, wish to have a traditional college experience, or do not like the city/lack of campus (really, people who dislike the city still come here and then dislike the experience).

People who tend to be really introspective and can't make friends. People who need their hands held to get things done. NYU is a really big school, and everyone is really nice but you have to be a go-getter to make friends and to be active in the community.

Someone who is timid or shy, who is afraid to ask for help, who disrespects people, and is not completly focussed on their current and future endeavours will get buried alive.

Without strong independence, New York City can be too big a pill to swallow.

Someone who is unsure about their intellectual and career goals. Someone who wants to be at a small, cohesive, close-knit university with people like themselves. Someone who enjoys being surrounded by nature. Someone not entirely committed to the arts (music, dance, theater etc.) who wants access to an arts community. Anyone shy or insecure.

Students should avoid this school if they are quiet, uneasy sleepers, socially reserved, or uncomfortable in a big city.