Rutgers University is a large university located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. There is always someplace new to explore on one of Rutgers-New Brunswick’s five campuses: Busch, Livingston, College Avenue, Douglass, George H. Cook. The university provides over 40,000 students annually with powerhouse academic programs. Rutgers has 20 different schools and colleges, over 100 undergraduate majors, and over 200 graduate degree programs. Both the Times Higher Education’s Work University Rankings and Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s Academic Ranking of World Universities has listed Rutgers among the top 100 universities in the world. The university also has a great athletics program with approximately 650 student varsity athletes who compete in the Big Ten conference. Some notable Rutgers alumni include former NBA Commissioner David Stern, and World Cup Champion and Olympic Gold medalist Carli Lloyd, just to name a few.
We spoke to a Rutgers University alumni, here is what he had to say:
Name: Alexander Coven
Year: Alumni
Major: Political Science and Philosophy
Hometown: Summit, New Jersey
Why did you choose to attend Rutgers?
I chose Rutgers because I knew I could get a great education at much less of a cost than going to a private school, or leaving the state of New Jersey. I knew I wanted to pursue post-graduate studies (particularly law school), so I knew I couldn’t afford to spend a ton on my undergraduate degree. After visiting Rutgers, I knew that I would have a lot of fun, learn a lot, and I wouldn’t regret staying in New Jersey.
What do you like most about the Rutgers?
My favorite part of Rutgers is that although it is a very large school, there are plenty of opportunities to make it feel like a smaller school where you don’t get lost in the crowd. Between your first year dorm, clubs and activities, and social events, I never felt like I was lost in the crowd or just another number.
What do you like most about living in New Brunswick?
New Brunswick is a great college town–not too big, but still with plenty to do. Additionally, the train station gives students quick access to New York City and other locations in the tri-state area. New Brunswick has done a lot of developing in the last few years, and is now catering to its students by offering some great restaurants and nightlife.
What do you like to do for fun/extracurricular/hobbies?
When I was at Rutgers, some of my favorite things to do was to go to sports events and support the school-football, basketball, baseball, etc. I was also involved in student government and worked for the school newspaper, the Daily Targum. However, its really more of a personal decision about what you like to do and what you think may help you advance your career, but the nice thing about Rutgers is that it is so big that there are a ton of different opportunities. In the first week there is a fair where all the different clubs and activities come out and you can sign up for anything that interests you.
Do you have any advice for incoming freshman?
Just keep an open mind and try new things. I’m sure that is the kind of advice you would get at any school, but there is so much to do at Rutgers and everybody can find a place where they fit in, you don’t have to look too hard. During your first few weeks try and develop a healthy balance between work and a social life. You should take your studies seriously, but also remember that for four years you live at your school too, and nobody expects you to be working all the time.
If you are interested in attending Rutgers University you can download the “Visit Rutgers” mobile app. On the app you can take a virtual tour of campus or take a real GPS guided tour, see local restaurants and shops, view admissions information, learn about university top points of pride, and more!
Download the “Visit Rutgers” Mobile App