CUNY’s Global Appeal: Why It’s Popular Among Irish Students
The City University of New York (CUNY) is well-known for many reasons, including its thousands of programs and rapidly growing research opportunities. CUNY holds a unique appeal for international students, particularly those hailing from Ireland. The following are some of the main reasons why CUNY stands out to Irish students.
The City
New York City is one of the most famous cities in the world. It’s renowned for its cultural diversity, arts, food, and business, beckoning to many worldwide. With 25 campuses scattered throughout the city’s boroughs, CUNY provides a gateway into the city for international students hoping to call it their home. Through classes, student life, and networking, CUNY offers opportunities to build a community in the city, making it not just a place where they study and work but a place where they can thrive in the future.
Academic Excellence
CUNY has operated since 1847 to provide quality education to all, regardless of their means or backgrounds. It continues this mission today and offers over 2,800 programs with certificates and degrees in various subjects, including business management, accounting, engineering, architecture, environmental studies, humanities, social studies, mathematics, and sciences. Just as a casino site is rated as the best online casino through careful review and evaluation, CUNY’s educational feats and ongoing work have led to positive reviews and rankings of the programs available across CUNY’s 25 colleges.
CUNY is considered the leading urban education system in the United States, awarding 50,000 degrees annually. Graduates of the system have been awarded 13 Nobel Prizes and 26 MacArthur “genius” grants across various fields, demonstrating the talent fostered and skills honed through the university.
In addition to being recognized as a leading education system and having earned notable prizes and grants, the university is dedicated to research and innovation throughout its multidisciplinary programs. In 2024, CUNY received over $672 million in research funding, helping to support faculty and students working on projects in medicine, environmental studies, robotics, cybersecurity, and more. This work supports industries and businesses in New York and beyond. It also provides students with powerful learning opportunities that will help them gain practical experience and assist them in starting their careers.
U.S. News & World Report has also rated the university as one of the best schools for social mobility. Graduation rates demonstrate the influence of this educational institution, as it helps propel students forward regardless of their means. Over 60% of undergraduates were the first members of their families to attend college, and 50% were from low-income families (families earning below $30,000 a year).
The variety of learning opportunities across New York has created a hub of academic excellence and provided many domestic and international students with opportunities that have helped them thrive in their educational and career endeavors.
Appreciation of Irish History and Culture
Among the diverse program options at CUNY, students will find a variety of Irish-focused courses, most notably through Lehman College and Queens College. Through the two schools, the CUNY education system actively supports Irish history and traditions with programs and classes dedicated to studying Irish culture, including its history, literature, music, and more. At Lehman College, students can even learn the Irish language, Gaelic, which has been resurging since its suppression and near extinction. It’s an opportunity for Irish students to connect with their cultural roots.
Student Life
Student life at CUNY offers international students excellent opportunities to build friendships and community, with plenty of clubs and initiatives they can join based on their interests. Among these opportunities, they’ll find a range of competitive sports teams, volunteer opportunities, and even Irish groups like the Irish Law Students Association at the CUNY School of Law.
CUNY students also receive a Cultural Passport that allows them to see some of New York City’s top attractions at a discounted rate and, in some cases, for free. Students can explore the diverse cultural experiences the city is known for without blowing their budget, including attractions like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New York Botanical Gardens, and Manhattan Theatre Club.
Cultural and Social Diversity
CUNY proudly supports over 6,000 international students through its wide range of program offerings, student life, and many amenities. In addition, an estimated one in three students was born outside of the United States. This translates to a great deal of cultural diversity, aligning with the city’s diversity, allowing for opportunities to expand students’ worldviews, and fostering connections and friendships that last a lifetime. The school dedicates many resources to supporting international students adjusting to life in New York City, providing them with the legal information and any additional resources they need to thrive. This makes it an appealing option for those coming to the United States to pursue a post-secondary education; they know they’ll have the support they need to excel when they arrive.
Career Prospects and Networking
The career prospects and networking opportunities presented through CUNY schools are also enticing reasons to attend the university. CUNY hosts multiple career and internship fairs throughout the school year, holds onsite recruitment events, and offers career services to help its students thrive upon graduation. With 82% of graduates staying in NYC, CUNY shows how well it prepares students to stay and work in the city, something many people dream of.
Conclusion
From the city it calls home to the diverse set of programs available, CUNY has a significant appeal on the global stage. It provides opportunities for students worldwide to pursue their passions at an establishment with a glowing reputation for its academic excellence, innovative research, and diverse cultural scene. For Irish students, recognizing their cultural roots through formal education and student associations makes the school all the more appealing; it’s no wonder it’s a popular choice.