<p>Hello. I was just accepted to Columbia College as a transfer for sophomore year. I currently attend Cornell University. I am interested in Computer Science and Finance. What attracted me to Columbia was the intellectual atmosphere that the Core seems to provide.</p>
<p>I have a few questions about Columbia. How strong is the Columbia computer science department? Will Columbia provide good opportunities and connections if I decide to go into finance? Finally, how intellectual are the students at Columbia?</p>
<p>I am wondering if anyone has any advice as to whether I should enroll or not. Thank you for the help.</p>
<p>Likewise, I was admitted as a transfer from Brown. Can someone make a facebook group or something? I’m trying to decide if I want to transfer.</p>
<p>Just so I have this straight, you both are transferring from Cornell and Brown but neither of you did any homework on Columbia before-hand? Were things in Ithica and Providence that bad?</p>
<p>I plenty of “homework” on Columbia. I am asking these questions to get another perspective in addition to what I already know.</p>
<p>People transfer out of every college each year for different reasons.</p>
<p>DowneasterDad, correct.</p>
<p>I think if you search this Columbia forum you can find some answers. Not too long ago there were long pages of discussions regarding Columbia and finance.</p>
<p>Hi guys! I’m not a compsci person, but I have friends in the department who really like it. I’ve taken one course (Java) and found it rather fast paced, but well-taught and enjoyable. The TAs are really a valuable resource. In regards to how it sets you up for life, one of my friends who was graduating this year with a bachelors in compsci was, a few months ago, faced with choosing between two job offers upon graduation. I’d say this speaks rather strongly for the program.</p>
<p>Likewise, I don’t really have experience in Columbia’s finance program (I presume you’ve done your homework here on the hard facts), but Columbia seems to have good connections all over the city. Many of my friends have procured internships within their area of interest, though for sophomore year, I’d say you’re more likely to expect an unpaid internship (I came into Columbia with my paid internship already lined up, so I haven’t had to use LionShare or the other resources provided). I have heard complaints about LionShare, though (which is used for searching for jobs), but many of them petty (like being unable to open multiple tabs). Of course, you have to be proactive with submitting applications in a timely manner and such.</p>
<p>Each department also hosts a number of events that are highly beneficial for gaining information as well as networking; I’ve attended a number of these events for the English department and PreLaw, and have yet to be disappointed.</p>
<p>In terms of the intellectual quality of the students here, I’d say you’re unlikely to be disappointed. I transferred for a similar desire to have a more intellectual environment, and was overwhelmed with glee when the topic of politics, lofty goals for the future, and ideologies came up over food at the dining hall for the first time, and everyone seemed able to follow and participate. The depth of knowledge and variety of opinions is truly wonderful, and most everyone has something they’re passionate about. More than once I’ve discussed classes and curricula outside of class. Of course, it stands that this applies to the majority, not the entirety, as there are all types at any institution.</p>
<p>Best of luck in your decision (and if you do decide to transfer, you very well may be in my orientation group).</p>