| Columbia was not my top choice last spring when deciding which college to attend, but my campus visit definitely blew all the other options out of the water. I had been considering Duke, but New York City and Columbia trumped trees and the expansive campus there. New Yorkers certainly have a reputation for their slightly biting attitudes, however, you stroll into a cozy, welcoming, friendly, beautiful, and really inspiring environment when you step inside Columbia's gates. I remember that I just loved how students were hanging out on the famous Low steps, some reading, some discussing various issues, and others simply basking in the sun and enjoying a lunch with friends. The grassy knolls were full of students lounging about and partaking in various recreational activities. There were even little kids and what I presume to be neighborhood residents enjoying an afternoon on the Columbia greens. The visit definitely had me sold. I submitted my registration that afternoon when I returned to the hotel. |