Columbia helps find a balance in life; NYU

Any criticism is welcome!
Columbia, paired with New York City, is abundant with opportunities. Columbia's breathtaking campus is small enough to not feel lost in the crowd, yet large enough to meet unique people and explore NYC, from Grimaldi's Pizzeria to the Staten Island boat graveyard. Most importantly, it is easy to find balance in one's life.

Columbia's commitment to provide equal opportunities for students, both social and financial, is unparalleled and the chance to flourish with the world's most intelligent and progressive thinkers is incomparable. As a teen dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding the LGBTQ community, I aspire to pursue my education in Columbia's open environment.

Columbia's World Leaders Forum is something unique to the school that I find particularly inviting. As a student passionate about local and global change, I can witness issues that matter to me being brought to the forefront of discussion by the world's most influential leaders as well as meet others who are passionate about similar causes.

Last, Columbia's focus on multi-disciplinary learning, especially through Core, is fundamental to personal development and provides the opportunity for me to apply my leadership skills and innovative thinking. To balance the stressful academics, exciting traditions (such as the 40s on 40s and the Primal Scream) are always available to let loose. Columbia is the one place where I can obtain a prestigious education in the most exciting city in the world has to offer.

Try giving an example of finding balance. You did mention the crowd size/diversity for meeting unique people, but I think that's common for a lot of cities/places. Find something very unique to NYC and Columbia. I would try the contrasting/different cultures and options in the city, ranging from food (dollar pizza near Union Square to higher end restaurants on the Upper East Side) to unique internships and city-wide opportunities.


Overall, it's very well written. I've never been able to write "Why (College)" essays very well, but I think you've nailed it here. Are there any other specific requirements/prompts?

EDIT: Wait, your title says "Why NYU" but you're talking about Columbia. I see you also have another columbia prompt, did you get the two mixed up?

Ahh, I was writing my NYU supplement at the same time.

Total mess up but both were meant for Columbia. : )

Overall, this response is effective. You've done a good job!

Yeah that looks really good! Can't find anything else to really change or add.