Nestled in the bustling but cozy town of Princeton, this school is one of America’s premier learning institutions. That’s right, it’s Princeton University! The fourth colonial college in the USA, Princeton University, was known as the College of New Jersey during its beginnings in 1746. It became the Princeton University we know and love today in 1896.
The campus is enclosed in gates, as many traditional suburban universities are. Legend has it that you cannot pass in or out of the main gates as a prospective student or an undergraduate, or you might not graduate on time or at all! I had to snag one of my friends who was getting precariously close to the gate once the tour ended. We took no risks!
In terms of academics, there is not much I could say about Princeton that has not been previously confirmed. The students, from all corners of the globe, are motivated, avid learners. Our tour guide stressed the importance that Princeton was primarily an undergrad college, giving a lot of resources and support to incoming young students, of whom there are about 5,000. It was also evident that Princeton’s financial aid is need-blind, and every student’s needs are met thanks to generous support. How wonderful!
Yet, the tour was more of a scenic stroll, not abundant disclosure of information about enrollment or financials. The architecture did not disappoint. Nor did the copious amounts of information on the history of Princeton’s hallowed halls. Education is requisite at Princeton, and the tour reinforced that. And Princeton, with its Ivy League status, is steeped in history dating back to the Revolutionary War period. Interestingly enough, Woodrow Wilson is among the most well-known and successful alumni as he was not only the President of the United States but also the President of Princeton University.
Of course, the acceptance rate of Princeton University is considerably low due to its international acclaim. We all know that a school like Princeton is colloquially a “dream school” or a “reach school.” However, attending that tour can further invigorate one’s dream of an enriching, well-balanced education and motivation to work hard; at least, it did so for me! Whether you attend Princeton University or elsewhere, Princeton’s commitment to academic excellence is an ethos that all students and all institutions of higher learning can incorporate.
