Barnard in Mistress America - accurate or not?

Just saw Mistress America, a sequel of sorts to Frances Ha, last night. Granted, Greta Gerwig lights up anything she’s in - but is the Barnard portrayed here at all true to life? I ask, because despite the first semester doldrums suffered by the Lola Kirke character, the film makes Barnard, NYC, and the life of a writer immensely appealing.

I guess the real life question I’m asking is whether student life in the Big Apple is as attractive for a STEM major who’ll have work/study obligations. Not incidentally, the Vassar of Frances Ha seems too idyllic.