<p>I was just offered an internship in NYC over the summer. I'm looking at possibly staying in Columbia U housing - Harmony Hall or East Campus locations are the buildings they're offering right now.</p>
<p>Does anybody have any first-hand knowledge of what those two locations are like? They look like typical dorm housing which is fine with me, but anything I should know about those locations/rooms? </p>
<p>They are located in upper westside Manhattan which looks like a good location to be. My main concern is I'll be living there for a couple of months and would like the opinion of somebody that might have seen the locations or know somebody that has.</p>
<p>Of the two locations, Harmony Hall is located in the much better location, basically W 110th and Broadway. There is a train stop right there. There are many shops on Broadway and one of the better bagel places right on 110 and Broadway, if it has not changed hands. HH is supposed to be an older building with no real renovation except for fresh paint. It is dorm living with communal bathrooms and even co-ed bathrooms on two floors, 5th and 6th. Not a very new or luxurious building (no a/c which could be hard for the summer).</p>
<p>East Campus is in a location that is more iffy by Morningside Park. I used to be nervous walking that stretch to go to study at the Columbia U Law Library at night. Unfortunately, in the 80’s, there was a murder in that dorm by someone who was checked in as a guest.</p>
<p>I do not know if there has been improvement since the '80s with CU’s expansion and growth. EC does have a/c and larger suites with kitchen and common area? So it is popular for upperclassmen at CU. It is supposed to be a close community during the school year and a party dorm. Not sure what it is like fornthe summer in this regard.</p>
<p>If you are looking for the best location, HH is the best location you have brought up here and previously. It can be noisy with the busy traffic at that busy intersection, but definitely a wonderful part of the upper west side. </p>
<p>I am not as enamored with EC’s location, but that could be my bias from the olden days. I am not sure what changes have occurred since the '80s for that part of the CU neighborhood.</p>
<p>Go to wikicu for info on these dorms if you have not done so yet.</p>
<p>Thanks evolving! Safety is an important factor so I am concerned if the East Campus is close to a high crime area. I’m not familiar with the area so any info is very helpful!</p>
<p>Safety wise, HH would be a location where u can go in and out Without fear at all hours if you do not mind living in a traditional dorm. See if there is a communal kitchen if that is imp. Also, if heat and humidity are of concern to you, get a strong room fan.</p>
<p>However, if the above amenities are important to you, EC may be a place to consider. A/c, kitchen, probably some sense of social community. It is about 2 blocks from the back side or east side of the Main Entrance aof Columbia U. Which is well traveled and good with security. Also, the changes over the last two decades maymmean that area is also quite well traveled on Amsterdam and 118 th St.</p>
<p>You have to think about your priorities in summer housing. Also, have you asked the Columbia U students for feedback on the location of EC? Aside from maybe iffy location (and I am uncertain of this), EC appears to have all the right amenities.</p>