Academics

it is difficult to understand how the professors expect the students to possibly get all the work done that they have to, but somehow they manage. the courses are definitely difficult, but the plus side of being in new york city is that many of the professors have connections to the industries the students someday hope to be a part of, allowing room for connections and even some in-class field work. new york is pretty much the center of the world, with the forefront of virtually every industry based there.

If you are applying, or have been accepted to Stern, then I will begin by telling you to work exceptionally hard. The first year will incorporate several classes in other schools and departments, but the few Stern classes you may have will be tough unless you put in 110% every day. Stern has an unruly grading curve, where you are expected to perform flawlessly to earn an A, not to mention an A+. Don't be tricked by low levels of coursework throughout the semester because small assignments are often graded harshly and account for huge grade percentages. From what I hear of friends in other schools, the College of Arts and Sciences is quite demanding in their levels of coursework, and you will be required to schedule many hours of laboratory if you pursue the Sciences. Also, do not be misled by the perception that Liberal Studies is the runt of the school, and therefore the students there have little work. My roommate has little work, but others who have enrolled in tough classes are quite often buried under mountains of work. Tisch has, by far, the least rigorous curriculum, but for what it lacks in academic rigor is made up by its demand for creative talent, imagination, and innovation.

Yes, NYU requires a lot of dedication in order to succeed and make the most out of your education, but it pays off! I feel like if you are doing what you are passionate about, it won't feel like a struggle to study and show up to class because you will be surrounded by people who love doing what you love, and you will have the chance to focus very closely in your specific interests in your area of study. For example, I study film and I get to take multiple courses in sound design, soundscaping, and mixing which is my passion within film.