@MYOS1634
Not true. Columbia Univ. is unique in that it is probably the only university in the world to practice the “core curriculums”. The “core curriculums” are set of classes that studies the masterpieces of western times (music, art, philosophy, literature). It is an extremely rigorous liberal arts sequence in which many who have taken it come to appreciate (though people in the sequence not as much as it’s not always fun to read 300~500 pages a week + even a 12~14 page essay for just 1 class when you have 4 to 5 other classes with a work study and an extracurricular activity).
Unfortunately, although in “theory” Barnard students can take those courses, quite honestly, the chance of being fortunate to enroll in these classes are like the chance of getting accepted to Columbia Univ right out of high school (pretty much none).
So no, many of Columbia University’s great undergraduate liberal art courses in which Columbia takes tremendous pride in is more or less shut out for students in Barnard.
That said, I did see some Barnard transfer into Columbia (like 1 student).
Anyways, other than certain classes being out of reach for Barnard students (many of which are Columbia’s greatest prides in undergraduate courses for its “rigour”), the only real thing Barnard are out of is:
- Free laundry system.
- Better financial aid.
- Better brand name -.- (though you will end up getting a Columbia diploma so ehh … plus, no one in Columbia cares whether you go to Barnard or not so…and I’m sure you know this cause you are experiencing it right now!)
- Better housing <3
- For the adventures!
That said, apply to Columbia. Who knows!
Free laundry system is a life saver. Honestly, hahaha
oh and…
“Additionally, when applying as a transfer student, is it advised that I use the same application material (like common app essay), or start from scratch?”
You will be making a new Common App account and writing DIFFERENT essays. Probably of why Columbia. Your essay has to be more mature ofc (cause now you know what you want out of college) and be very convincing of why Columbia College while also showing that while Barnard was a phenomenal experience for you, you await for more. .< >
Also, transfer apps are much harder than college apps. Good luck with getting your grades from the registrar, asking 2 professors AND an advisor for recommendations, etc. (and persuading them you aren’t really transferring for prestige )