Most appealing about Columbia = it fits the mold of my expectations

When told to create a vision of the "perfect" college, we are taught to research the location, majors, programs and any other information imaginable before deciding to apply. Columbia is a masterpiece in my eyes because it fit the mold of the expectations that I searched for and hoped to see in such a prestigious institution. I am curious, adventurous, and most of all infatuated with chemistry. Columbia University has struck me as the best choice available based on my thorough search to find a fit education for my inquisitive personality. I picture myself pouring over the knowledge I have and will learn as I scavenge through the new science discoveries in the library computers finding information to utilize in my attempts to understand concepts and procedures in the research laboratory setting I hope to one day be a part of. I can sense myself "fitting in"; when I hear Columbia I hear Cassandra Chapa, a young woman that would contribute cultural diversity and veraciousness of mind. With these opportunities, I will be able to start a new chapter of my life as I hope to ascend the steps of your amazing university. The new perspectives that will unfold before my eyes and a core curriculum distinguishable for the education I desire.

Your first line seems strangely out of place. This is followed by some points which everyone else could have given. What I mean is that your essay seems to project a lack of research about the university.

You don't have to talk about all the factors which would make Columbia a good place for you. Just concentrate on one or two, but make them seem the most important ones. I believe the prompt asks about that only.

You say that you like chemistry. But you can pursue that in any other college of Columbia's stature. Do you have a specific reason?

I agree with ershad193 that your first sentence seems very out of place.
All in all, I think your essay is too general and that you can actually replace Columbia with another university. I think if you really like Columbia for science then you should research more on Columbia's science program and what you really like about it.