Academics

Academics at Barnard (and at Columbia, where you will most likely take at least a few courses) are definitely rigorous. Classes tend to be small, which requires a high level of participation- and consequently, you need to be able to keep up with the readings and assignments in order to contribute in class. Classes tend to have a lot of assignments; science lab courses in particular are very demanding. It can be frustrating living in NYC when you don't always have loads of free time, so it's really important to learn how to manage your time and find a balance between work and all the amazing opportunities NYC has. However, despite the sizable work load, the atmosphere is generally non-competitive. Most students are more than willing to help each other, and professors tend to be really helpful (most of my professors have more than enough office hours). Therefore, even though the work can be difficult, you do get a lot of help in learning how to handle it. Additionally, most of the classes (even if they are challenging) have been extremely interesting- overall, I'd say the homework load is worth it.

Intense and challenging, but manageable if you are interested in what you study, have good time management, and reach out for support when necessary. The work is hard, but it's work you want to be doing!

The classes require a lot of study time and work, however the subject matter is always interesting and the teachers are brilliant. Even the least enigmatic teacher is willing to help you and if you are enthusiastic, they will be too. Like any school, you will get as much out of the education as you put in and there is much to be had at Barnard. If you work hard and study, you will succeed and form many valuable skills in the process.

It's very difficult. Stay on top of things or you will definitely fall behind.

This school is pretty rigorous. I spend a lot of my time studying. But that's okay because there is still time to go out once a week and enjoy youself.

Barnard is tough. I'm a Neuroscience major and I think if I wasn't so involved in campus activities I'd have an easier time academically, but New York and friends can sometimes be distracting and keep me from studying as much as I should. I have no regrets, however.

Academics are really hard. You have to know how to time manage and Barnard students need discipline.

This is one of the original Seven Sisters and technically part of Columbia University, so be ready for Ivy League academics!

In terms of the work-load, everything is doable and nothing is impossible. To be honest, it will be quite a transition for you from high school to College, but it will all fall into place. You're first-year experience will be pretty rough in that it will cause you a lot of stress trying to learn how to study for every course and how to manage your time quite well. The reason I rate this as 4 stars is because Barnard is indeed an ivy league and you will be asked to put in all the effort you need to put in to do really well, but with the help of the professors who are literally always there for you to support you. The resources on campus are there for your use, so take advantage of them.