<p>I know why I want to go there: core, diversity, beautiful campus, D1 sports, place where intellectuals gather, discussion style classes, NY city, Cousin went there and loves it, and it is one of the hardest schools in the country. Why did you guys choose it? I am wondering if I should ED it. I am going to visit in a month.</p>
<p>I went because both my parents went there, and because I live 30m away because there is nothing better than going home one weekend and having your mom cook for you and do your laundry and not wearing flip-flops in the shower.</p>
<p>I went for a variety of different reasons: the core and majors makes learning less practical and more theoretical, and you won’t feel the pressure to take “technical” classes in the college (huge for me- I plan on working in a professional world, but I’m happy not studying marketing as an undergrad). Great departments in the social sciences (the region I’m studying is probably Columbia’s specialty). Intelligent student body, but lots of “secret brains”- most people are really socially and professionally functional and less awkward than at other top-tier schools. New York City is VERY accessible- more so than Boston is to Harvard or Chicago is to UChicago (plus, it’s safer!). Good diversity- tons of international students, Pell Grant recipients, GS (professionals, veterans), plenty of grad students, and NYC ensure that you can (and if you try, you will) meet interesting and unexpected people. People will want to visit you because you’re in an amazing location. The opportunities are impossibly extensive, which is great because you can do pretty much whatever you want. It’s also bittersweet because it forces you to decide what you really want earlier on (internships vs. double major vs. extracurricular activities vs. busy social life).</p>