������

Students name Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's academic rigor as one if its greatest strength, saying that they both "want to be challenged" and desire the "many cutting-edge research opportunities." For example: "I can help run a fully functioning critical nuclear reactor, use one of the strongest linear particle accelerators in the nation, and so much more as an undergraduate." The trade-off is a tricky school-life balance, with one enrollee describing time spent studying as "almost the equivalent of a full-time job." That said, "there are many supports for students who may need extra help," and the school "will not let you fall behind." There are "very strong" tutoring services available and "the counseling center is great." Students appreciate the chance to learn from professors with "real-world experiences." Many of the professors are at the top of their field, and students have the opportunity to work with them on "amazing research projects." This prepares RPI graduates "to exceed expectations [in] any opportunities we may pursue." As one student sums up, "Everyone here makes you work hard, but that pushes you to definite success."

This school is “truly brewing with amazing people.” Many students affectionately describe their peers as nerds—not in a negative sense, “but more toward the sheer dedication they put towards what matters to them.” That means that “there is a niche for everyone to find” where “you can be yourself and people won’t judge.” As one undergrad puts it, “[We] are unapologetically ourselves in every aspect of our lives, from the way we dress to the way we speak.” It’s an environment where “nearly everybody has their own special interests and an avenue to pursue them.” Given the challenging academics, it’s understandable that students here “take a great deal of pride in their work” and “spend countless hours studying and refining [their] study habits.” There is “no sense of cutthroat competitiveness;” overall, it’s a “very collaborative and supportive” group. There is a wide “variety of personalities,” and students find their peers to be “very sociable,” even though many define themselves as introverts. RPI has “a really nice sense of community” full of people who “are kind, funny, and motivated.”

One student captures the campus vibe, saying, “I wish I could clone myself just so I can partake in a fraction of the amount of things the school has to offer.” There is plenty to do on this “very beautiful and very walkable” campus. Many students enjoy STEMfocused clubs, such as the Flying Club for aviation enthusiasts, Rensselaer Rocketry for building rockets, and Engineers Without Borders, which “focuses on sustainable engineering projects to help underdeveloped communities (locally and internationally).” There are many activities for outdoorsy students, such as wilderness excursions, birdwatching, and skiing. The campus also boasts a thriving college radio station, providing “free self-expression” through “less conventional” content. Each week, weather permitting, you might witness a lively game of Humans Versus Zombies, similar to tag, that’s “very fun” and brings students together. Students also enjoy crafting at The Forge, a makerspace equipped with tools like a 3D printer, laser cutter, and sticker maker. On the weekends, students can head to downtown Troy for the farmer’s market, which features “a lot of well-made items and delicious food.” Whether you’re an “incessant party animal” or someone who is “passionate about their work,” there’s plenty to do.

RPI is all about ensuring every student gets legitimate experience in his or her field of study as soon as possible, and looks to “equip each student with the skills needed to be a valuable member of any research team or company.” The focus on problem-solving and “opportunities to be involved in hands-on research” are just two of the ways the school accomplishes this, and “the research buildings are amazing.” The RPI name has a great reputation with science and tech employers, and many take part in co-ops throughout the academic year. The Center for Career and Professional Development maintains JobLink, an online job recruiting and posting system, offers career programming tailored to your class year, and hosts a Spring Career Fair. Fifty-one percent of the RPI graduates who visited PayScale.com reported feeling that their jobs had a high level of meaningful impact on the world, and brought in a median starting salary of $72,600.