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College Profile: NYU


I have spent a lot of time in New York City and over the years have fallen in love with NYU. Students here are drawn to top academics, diverse culture, and an engaging life in one of the most exciting cities in the world. The campus seamlessly merges with the city around it to provide a unique experience and endless opportunities for students. It is truly a global community.


History:


New York University was chartered in 1831 and began classes in 1832 as the University of the City of New York, envisioned as a non-denominational institution focused on merit-based education at a time when most colleges were tied to religious institutions. 


Not long after, NYU moved to its now-iconic location in Greenwich Village, centered around Washington Square Park, a vibrant public space that has become inseparable from campus life. 


Over nearly two centuries, NYU has grown into a global university, with major campuses in New York City, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai, alongside numerous study-abroad sites that span six continents. 


Fun Facts:


  • The Mascot Story: NYU once briefly had a flower as a mascot in the 1980s, but quickly realized it wasn’t intimidating, so now it’s the Bobcat, playfully nicknamed from the Bobst Library (aka “Bobst Cat”). 

  • Largest Strawberry Cake Ever?: At NYU’s annual Strawberry Festival, students and visitors enjoy a famously massive strawberry shortcake baked by the NYU food team - part of a spring celebration of music, food, and community. 

  • World Champion Quidditch: Yes, NYU’s Quidditch team has made waves nationally, even reaching the Sweet 16 of the Quidditch World Cup. 

  • Talent Showcase — “UltraViolet Live”: This long-running student talent event highlights performers from all walks of life, with famous alums like Lady Gaga having participated back in the day. 


School Traditions:


UltraViolet Live (UVL) - A student talent show where performers sing, dance, and wow the crowd, often judged by celebrity guests. 


Presidential Welcome & “Reality Show: NYU” - New students are welcomed at Radio City Music Hall with an entertaining musical performance created by students. 


FYRE Ferry Parties & Flurry Ice Skating - From boat parties near the Statue of Liberty to skating at Central Park’s Wollman Rink, there’s always something fun in the city. 


Club Fest & Over 300 Student Groups - Connect with like-minded peers at Club Fest, where clubs from performing arts to social justice and academic interests come together. 


Strawberry Festival - NYU’s beloved spring tradition of free music, games, food, and that legendary strawberry shortcake. 


Student Life & Statistics:


Enrollment & Demographics


  • Total enrolled students: ~61,724 (undergrad + graduate) 

  • Undergraduates: ~29,401 

  • Graduate/Professional: ~29,743 

  • International students: ~24% of the newest class 

  • Diverse representation: Students from 50 U.S. states and 86 countries 


Academic Success


  • Selective admissions: ~13% acceptance rate for the Class of 2023

  • Retention & Graduation: ~95.5% return for sophomore year; 87% graduate in six year 

  • Student-faculty ratio: ~8:1 in NYC 


NYU also offers 270+ areas of study, from arts to sciences, business, engineering, and beyond. 


NYU isn’t just a university. It really is a vibrant, global community rooted in a historic city and built for curious, ambitious people. Whether it’s taking part in long-standing traditions, joining a quirky club, or diving deep into academics, NYU offers a one-of-a-kind college experience you won’t find anywhere else.


If living in the middle of New York City sounds like your ideal college experience, then take a look at NYU. I urge you to take a tour in person, if possible, and definitely visit the website at https://www.nyu.edu/.


 
 
 

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