I just returned from a visit to New York City and am always amazed by the college opportunities available in such a small space. Manhattan is a mere 23 square miles and there are hundreds of colleges for any interest beckoning for the adventurous student. From focused studies in film, acting, music and fashion, to the traditional four-year college, Manhattan offers a wide variety of secondary education choices.

Is your student craving for an urban experience at college? If so, there are a few things to consider.

What is an urban college environment like?

In New York City, the colleges have become part of the city itself. They are mingled within the skyscrapers and citywide neighborhoods. In other cities, the college is more self-contained in in their own little neighborhoods. Since this type of environment can be overwhelming, especially for students who come from small towns or rural areas. Don’t fool yourself into thinking just because you want to escape the small-town mentality, that an urban environment will be easy to navigate.

It takes some tenacity and fortitude to navigate the subway system in New York, along with the millions of people who live on Manhattan. The same is true for colleges in Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago and other large metropolitan areas.

What are the benefits of attending an urban college?

Urban colleges, like those in New York, offer a wide range of cultural off-campus experiences and a variety of entertainment like museums, concerts, plays and more. In addition, urban colleges offer students a larger pool of possible internship opportunities since many companies operate within these large cities. For instance, if your student is studying film, acting, fashion or music, a college on Manhattan will put them in close proximity to many opportunities to hon their craft and get advice from those currently working in these areas.

For example, in New York City, there is a restaurant called Ellen’s Stardust Diner that offers budding Broadway hopefuls the opportunity to perform each day live in front of an audience of diners while earning wages as servers. In addition, the establishment pays for additional acting, singing and dancing classes for its employees. This year alone, 17 of its employees have joined Broadway productions.

Is an urban college the right choice for your student?

Urban colleges are good environments for outgoing students who have a spirit of adventure and who like to interact with people of different cultures and backgrounds. There will always be something going on in the city and it will be easy to access any activity that interests you.  

It’s easy to get around an urban college because you will have access to a large public transportation system. It likely won’t be necessary to have a car while attending college because of the easy accessibility of transportation.

If a certain city is a hot sport for your student’s chosen career field, like Broadway theater is in New York, they might consider attending a college within the city. It will be easier to do networking and make connections while attending school.

Tomorrow, I will explore the advantages of attending a suburban college. Stay tuned!