Rutgers New Brunswick has the prestige of being one of the 8 earliest founded colleges in the nation and is often ranked within the 100 best colleges in the world, for less than half the cost of an Ivy League school. Research opportunities, networking, and rigorous academics are in abundance for those looking for it, and an outstanding social atmosphere here also awaits you - Rutgers is truly one big happy family, and you can sense the unspoken bond all Rutgers students share.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
If you're considering any other colleges, don't look any further. Rutgers has all you need and then some by tenfold, for a reasonable pricetag. While the sheer size of Rutgers is often the deciding factor in why students say no to Rutgers, do not be intimidated. As you get familiarized with the bus system and different campuses, join clubs and make friends, you'll notice you will find familiar faces nearly everywhere you go. Many of my friends regret going to small colleges because the clique aspect is still alive and well in many smaller schools. Well, not here. Everyone is so friendly and willing to adopt you into their friend group. Striking up a conversation with nearly anyone is bound to have favorable results, and with all the clubs and organizations you can join, NOT making friends is virtually impossible. Shy people rejoice! Tips? Challenge yourself academically, be open minded when meeting new people, be kind, and balance work and play in a healthy manner!
Do you find there’s enough academic rigor at your school?
It's challenging! Rutgers may have a reputation for being a party school, but everywhere you look there are students poring over their books and typing away at computers. Exams come frequently and essays all over. Rutgers is definitely no joke when it comes to the academia, but don't be worried! With all the tutoring, learning centers, workshops, and advising offices there are you have plenty of resources to help you reach new heights with your studies. As long as you actively seek help if you need it, you'll do great.
Describe the dorm life at your college.
I'm one of the lucky freshmen that got placed into College Ave dorms, which is pretty rare since College Ave is the most sought after campus. Of course, Livingston, Busch, Cook and Douglass also have dorms that are just as pretty, but a lot more secluded than the bustle of College Ave and downtown New Brunswick. Some dorms have air conditioning, some don't, some have extra fancy things, some don't. I love dorm life much more than I thought I would, as long as you go into it with a positive attitude and you're kind, you shouldn't have any problem whatsoever with dorming. In fact, you will probably learn to really love it. Living with people just like you and the ability to make friends with people is so beautiful, as is the community aspect of it! Also, if you're in a particular major or have a special interest, there is special interest housing and living/learning communities tailored to what you do. For example, French majors can be placed in an all-french major floor so they can immerse themselves in the language and improve. There are also LGBTQ housing options, housing for female STEM majors, honestly, anything you can name. Dorming is pricey but a very rewarding experience.
Describe the food and dining at your college.
There are four dining halls, so you can take your pick and even if you're on a campus that isn't yours, food is never far away. The food isn't bad, and there are certain restaurants and eateries that take meal swipes if you're not feeling dining hall food. It may not be the tastiest food you've ever eaten, but in comparison to most other colleges, we're very spoiled.
What’s there to do for fun at your college?
The fun really never ends at Rutgers. Clubs you probably could never imagine existing are here, there are parties, there are plays you can catch, a movie theatre on campus, there are nature trails to walk, gyms to work out in, restaurants, shopping, games to watch, and events that are programmed by various organizations on campus that are either free or very inexpensive to attend. For example, fall harvest festivals, concerts, movie screenings, art exhibitions, and so many more. You will never be bored at Rutgers if you keep your eyes peeled for fun events that are happening on campus.
Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus
Getting fat sandwiches from the grease trucks!
Which types of students will excel at your college?
There is so much diversity at Rutgers and so many different majors that Rutgers can be tailored to fit any student's goals, interests, passions.
Are you involved in any clubs or activities?
At the start of every year, there's a Student Involvement Fair, where College Ave is completely shut down and all the clubs and organizations set up booths so you can find out more info about them. Sign up for the ones that interest you and attend their events! It's really that easy. And you won't have a problem finding one that interests you, in fact, you'll probably find too many that interest you!
Rutgers New Brunswick has the prestige of being one of the 8 earliest founded colleges in the nation and is often ranked within the 100 best colleges in the world, for less than half the cost of an Ivy League school. Research opportunities, networking, and rigorous academics are in abundance for those looking for it, and an outstanding social atmosphere here also awaits you - Rutgers is truly one big happy family, and you can sense the unspoken bond all Rutgers students share.
If you're considering any other colleges, don't look any further. Rutgers has all you need and then some by tenfold, for a reasonable pricetag. While the sheer size of Rutgers is often the deciding factor in why students say no to Rutgers, do not be intimidated. As you get familiarized with the bus system and different campuses, join clubs and make friends, you'll notice you will find familiar faces nearly everywhere you go. Many of my friends regret going to small colleges because the clique aspect is still alive and well in many smaller schools. Well, not here. Everyone is so friendly and willing to adopt you into their friend group. Striking up a conversation with nearly anyone is bound to have favorable results, and with all the clubs and organizations you can join, NOT making friends is virtually impossible. Shy people rejoice! Tips? Challenge yourself academically, be open minded when meeting new people, be kind, and balance work and play in a healthy manner!
It's challenging! Rutgers may have a reputation for being a party school, but everywhere you look there are students poring over their books and typing away at computers. Exams come frequently and essays all over. Rutgers is definitely no joke when it comes to the academia, but don't be worried! With all the tutoring, learning centers, workshops, and advising offices there are you have plenty of resources to help you reach new heights with your studies. As long as you actively seek help if you need it, you'll do great.
I'm one of the lucky freshmen that got placed into College Ave dorms, which is pretty rare since College Ave is the most sought after campus. Of course, Livingston, Busch, Cook and Douglass also have dorms that are just as pretty, but a lot more secluded than the bustle of College Ave and downtown New Brunswick. Some dorms have air conditioning, some don't, some have extra fancy things, some don't. I love dorm life much more than I thought I would, as long as you go into it with a positive attitude and you're kind, you shouldn't have any problem whatsoever with dorming. In fact, you will probably learn to really love it. Living with people just like you and the ability to make friends with people is so beautiful, as is the community aspect of it! Also, if you're in a particular major or have a special interest, there is special interest housing and living/learning communities tailored to what you do. For example, French majors can be placed in an all-french major floor so they can immerse themselves in the language and improve. There are also LGBTQ housing options, housing for female STEM majors, honestly, anything you can name. Dorming is pricey but a very rewarding experience.
There are four dining halls, so you can take your pick and even if you're on a campus that isn't yours, food is never far away. The food isn't bad, and there are certain restaurants and eateries that take meal swipes if you're not feeling dining hall food. It may not be the tastiest food you've ever eaten, but in comparison to most other colleges, we're very spoiled.
The fun really never ends at Rutgers. Clubs you probably could never imagine existing are here, there are parties, there are plays you can catch, a movie theatre on campus, there are nature trails to walk, gyms to work out in, restaurants, shopping, games to watch, and events that are programmed by various organizations on campus that are either free or very inexpensive to attend. For example, fall harvest festivals, concerts, movie screenings, art exhibitions, and so many more. You will never be bored at Rutgers if you keep your eyes peeled for fun events that are happening on campus.
Getting fat sandwiches from the grease trucks!
There is so much diversity at Rutgers and so many different majors that Rutgers can be tailored to fit any student's goals, interests, passions.
At the start of every year, there's a Student Involvement Fair, where College Ave is completely shut down and all the clubs and organizations set up booths so you can find out more info about them. Sign up for the ones that interest you and attend their events! It's really that easy. And you won't have a problem finding one that interests you, in fact, you'll probably find too many that interest you!