<p>Hi everyone,</p>
<p>As you make your decisions about where to go to school, I urge you to think about everything you want out of school and also everything you are nervous about with regard to your choice. Two years ago, my parents told me to apply to Northeastern, even though I showed little to no interest. When I was accepted, I was proud but thought that it just was not the school for me. I didn't want to go to a city school, and I didn't want to go to a school that was as big as Northeastern. I wanted the traditional 4-year experience. But, something changed between the time I was accepted and when I decided to come to Northeastern. And I'm so grateful it did, because I can not imagine myself at any other school.</p>
<p>To address my concerns about living in a city, I would just like to say that this went from a concern to a huge bonus within the first week of moving to campus. Not only does Northeastern have a traditional campus feel, but it is nestled in one of the greatest parts of the city. The Prudential Center is right down the road and with it shops and great places to hang out. The "dreaded" Fens is right there as well, and even though it is always being pegged as a "dangerous" place, it is quite beautiful during the day. But if you don't like the city vibe, you can hang out on campus and even forget that you are in the heart of Boston. Centennial Common is a hub of activity where students flock to on the nice days to lay out in the sun or throw a frisbee. There is also green space in the West Village Quad and Freshman Quad. If you don't like the city or have the idea that it is a big scary place, I urge you to re-think - living in a city opens up your campus extensively.</p>
<p>I was also afraid of going to a big school and not knowing anyone. I thought it would be hard to make friends. Despite there being a huge student body, you do start seeing the same faces over and over, especially if you join student organizations. After two years here, I cannot walk through campus without seeing someone I know and saying "Hey." But if you do not want to be involved, you can still make friends very easily. I lived in International Village as a freshman, and I made so many great friends just by hanging out in the common rooms. If you want to make friends, you will. </p>
<p>The academics are also very good here. I would not rely on rankings to make your choice - I turned down higher ranked schools to go to Northeastern. I have been challenged in my classes as have all my other friends (who I find to be very smart). There is also a very collaborative approach to academics here - students like to help each other out. I have never had issues finding other people to study with or asking for help. The professors are all available and willing to assist you if you have any issues with the material.</p>
<p>To Honors Students: if you have heard negative things about living in International Village (like isolation), I would like to clarify that it is a great place to live. A gym in your building and a dining hall in your basement - you never have to leave. True, you are on the other side of Ruggles, but that doesn't stop you from crossing to the other side of campus to mingle with other freshman. And even if you stay in International Village all the time, there are 600+ other freshman there looking to make friends. The odds are in your favor.</p>
<p>There are so many ways to get out of the classroom - whether it be a dialogue, study abroad, or a co-op, Northeastern wants you to get out and see the world. I went on the Honors dialogue to Rome last summer, and it was the best month of my life. I ate too much gelatto and pasta carbonara, and made friendships that are still very strong. A dialogue is a summer study abroad program that lasts between 4-6 weeks and is led by a Northeastern faculty member. You take your classes with a group of students from Northeastern. I loved mine, and have not met anyone who has not loved their experience. Plus, there are so many different options and they are a great way to fulfill core requirements.</p>
<p>Co-op is what this school is built around, and I can attest to how helpful it is. Before you go out on co-op, you must take a class where you learn how to write resumes, and how to nail an interview -essential skills for post-graduation life. Then you are free to search through an extensive database of jobs sorted by major and intensity. From there, you apply to a number of jobs and go through the stressful, yet rewarding interview process. I got my co-op during finals week in December (a great way to end the semester!). Starting in January, I have been working and have learned so many practical skills. I have sharpened my computer skills and have learned how to work in a team to complete projects. To say I have learned a lot on the job is an understatement. So yes, co-op is as great as Northeastern says it is.</p>
<p>Northeastern is a great place - and it keeps getting better. Both in the rankings and as a stepping stone in life. I love this school so much and cannot believe I almost did not even apply. I have made so many friends, and learned so much. Northeastern basically throws exciting opportunities in your face and you simply just need to reach out and take advantage of them. I know I would not be happier anywhere else.</p>
<p>I hope I have been able to help out with any concerns you have about the school. Wherever you choose to go, you will be happy if you make an effort to be happy. Good luck with your choices and let me know if you have any other questions!!</p>