When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Baruch College
Why Baruch College is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Baruch College, a constituent of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, stands out as a vibrant, multicultural urban college located in Manhattan's Gramercy Park area. Established in 1919 and named after Bernard M. Baruch, this institution offers a comprehensive range of educational programs, including 29 undergraduate majors, 60 undergraduate minors, and 56 graduate specializations. Its academic structure comprises three distinct schools: the Zicklin School of Business, the Mildred and George Weissman School of Arts and Sciences, and the Austin W. Marxe School of Public and International Affairs. The Zicklin School, notable for being one of the largest and most respected business schools in the nation, complements Baruch's strong liberal arts and public affairs curricula. The College benefits from its prime location in New York City's business district, providing students unparalleled access to internships, networking opportunities, and cultural attractions that enhance both academic and social experiences. Baruch's history traces back to 1847 with the founding of the Free Academy, reflecting a longstanding commitment to accessible, quality education. The campus features modern facilities within a 700,000-square-foot academic complex, nurturing a dynamic environment for motivated and accomplished students. Regular on-campus activities, student clubs, and workshops foster community engagement, while nearby affordable and diverse dining options add to the vibrant social atmosphere. This institution is especially favored by students seeking challenging business programs combined with the richness of city life in New York.
Here's what people think of Baruch College
As of recent, Baruch College holds a 4.1-star rating based on 527 reviews.
Reviews from students and alumni of Baruch College reveal a generally positive perspective with a 4.1 average rating out of over 500 reviews. Many praise the college for its strong academic rigor, particularly within the business, liberal arts, and political programs, citing it as great value for money. The availability of numerous student life activities, career workshops, and networking opportunities within New York City are frequently commended. Students appreciate the proximity to major corporations and Wall Street, which enhances internship and job prospects. Faculty members with real-world business experience are seen as a significant asset, as are the numerous free career development programs offered on campus. On the social side, the college environment is described as lively with frequent events, although the in-house cafeteria is considered pricey compared to nearby affordable eateries. The challenge of managing course demands, especially in business, is noted, suggesting that students should be prepared to work hard and engage closely with professors. Some comments mention rising tuition costs per class, which could be a concern for some prospective students. Overall, the reviews depict Baruch as an institution that encourages personal and professional growth within a demanding yet supportive urban setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sophie
I go to college here as a junior and I really like the school overall. Their business classes are great and I love the layout. Some of my concerns would be the elevator lines, some of the professors are not so passionate about their job, and I was told they were very encouraging about starting new clubs however they denied mine repeatedly without any willing to meet or discuss
Armen Balalian
I graduated from Baruch 3 years ago, and while the academic experience was excellent, great professors and valuable coursework, However, the student services, especially IT support, were incredibly disappointing. Before graduating, I submitted a service request and followed the proper process while I was still a student. It was ignored for months. When I followed up in person and by email, I was met with unrelated and inappropriate questions. After graduation, I was finally told they don’t provide services to alumni, completely ignoring that my request was made while I was enrolled. That’s unacceptable. As a student, it was my right to receive support. Denying that after the fact feels like a violation of that right, and frankly, it came across as discriminatory. I even deleted a previous review out of good faith, hoping the issue would be resolved, but it never was. Baruch offers top-tier academics, but the student services are seriously lacking. It's unfortunate that such a great institution fails to support its students beyond the classroom. I have attached photos to prove my claims. **Update: After 42 months, my issue was finally resolved. I should not have had to go through so much stress and delay for something so basic. It was only resolved after intervention from a top executive , otherwise, it likely would have remained ignored. This review will stay up for 42 months to reflect how long it took to be addressed.
Divya DN
Baruch College is a reputable institute and I feel proud to have studied in their continuing studies program. I like the facility as well. It’s a well-designed space to be in the center of the city! Great location too! Easy to get to and lots of places around to eat whenever you are in class till late. I have had minor challenges like long lines for the elevator or having to go to another floor to use the restroom because the one on mine was broken, etc. But, I could live with that! Professors: What made my learning experience worthwhile here were some of the professors from the industry that taught incredibly well! They were quite knowledgeable and also helpful. They took the effort to stay in touch with helping me in my job search even after the course had ended. Although, it was all about luck! While some of them were absolutely brilliant, a few of them were downright disappointing with how little they covered through the entire course and how much more they expected students to cover and present in the final projects. With minimal guidance and information, we struggled with some subjects because of the terrible teachers. That was distasteful! Management and Staff: The staff is extremely slow and disorganized! I had the most daunting experience registering for new classes at times. One time, I had an awful experience with not being able to take up a class I had registered for due to an unforeseen event. Although I had cancelled my registration a day before the classes started, I was given the hardest time to make a switch to a new class. I was blatantly refused registration for another class and also not given a refund for the class I had not taken. It was the most excruciating experience for me to fight for my money and get my registration done for a new class. It took escalation and going back and forth over emails with a senior staff member despite showing email proof that I had cancelled my registration before the classes began. Overall, I would say I did enjoy my course here despite the hurdles. Not a fan of the management staff! But some of the professors made it worth it for me! Word of advice— Choose your classes based on the teacher.
Jazmín Ortega
It's one of the worst universities in terms of organization. Do you have a problem? It will take at least three weeks to resolve. They'll send you from department to department. They won't answer your emails, and don’t even talk about phone calls. They'll just hang up on you, or at best, they won't answer at all. It took three and a half months to resolve a problem as simple as registering for classes.
Chris G
This is not a good school they have a high SAT score and seems to be some of the people that are attending the school doesn't have the credentials to appear I found out that there was some guy that said he was class president when find out it's somebody else that's the class president for a certain amount of years so there's been people getting ahold of degrees from that school system that he attend the school system so I advise you to go to a university versus the school that's well known because we've been having incidents with someone that has no credentials I don't even think he went to the school but has a degree from this school system and doesn't even have the documentation on there
How to reach Baruch College
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Why Baruch College may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Baruch College with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family for a meetup at Baruch College in Manhattan is a choice that combines convenience, dynamic surroundings, and enriching experiences. Located in the heart of New York City's vibrant Park Avenue South area, Baruch College is surrounded by the bustling financial and cultural epicenter of the city. This prime location provides easy access via multiple subway lines, buses, and nearby major transit hubs such as Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal, making it a practical meeting spot for groups coming from anywhere in the city or suburbs. Beyond accessibility, Baruch’s lively campus atmosphere inspires collaboration, learning, and fun, with various academic centers and modern facilities that can serve as the perfect backdrop for any gathering. Whether your group enjoys intellectual engagement, exploring innovative spaces, or simply soaking in the energy of Manhattan’s Midtown South, Baruch offers a unique setting that balances the excitement of city life with the welcoming environment of a college campus. When hosting a group event, the combination of accessibility, amenities, and cultural energy makes rallying at Baruch a smart, enjoyable choice for friends or families wanting a memorable meetup.
What activities can you enjoy at Baruch College as a group?
Baruch College offers a wide range of activities and facilities that can accommodate group meetups with varied interests. For those inspired by learning and culture, the college hosts several academic centers and institutes accessible both to students and sometimes to visitors, where groups can engage in thought-provoking discussions or attend public lectures. Some highlights include the Bernard L. Schwartz Communication Institute that supports innovative communication projects and the Weissman Center for International Business, which may occasionally host events or seminars suitable for curious audiences. For groups interested in entrepreneurship or finance, the Lawrence N. Field Center for Entrepreneurship and the Subotnick Financial Services Center—with its state-of-the-art trading floor simulation—provide fascinating opportunities for exploration or educational visits. The campus itself is designed to encourage collaboration, making it ideal for group study sessions, informal meetups in green spaces or common areas, or participation in college-hosted community events. Additionally, the college’s location places it close to a wealth of nearby dining and entertainment options along 23rd Street and Park Avenue South, enabling groups to easily extend their meetup with meals or fun activities in the neighborhood.
Why is Baruch College perfect for a group meetup in Manhattan?
Baruch’s location and transportation connectivity make it an ideal meetup place for groups scattered across the metropolitan area. Situated between East 22nd and 25th Streets, close to Lexington Avenue, the college is easily accessible by multiple subway lines including the #6, N, R, F, M, C, and E trains, plus numerous bus routes such as the M1, M2, M3, M15, and M23. This means attendees can arrive quickly from anywhere in New York’s five boroughs, suburban New York, or even parts of New Jersey and Connecticut without the hassle of complicated transfers or lengthy travel times. The campus itself is a safe, welcoming environment tailored to accommodate large groups, with modern, spacious buildings and outdoor plazas that foster social interaction. Moreover, Baruch is right in the middle of a thriving, urban neighborhood filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops, allowing groups to immediately transition from on-campus activities to exploring local hotspots. The college’s status as a respected institution also means that it often hosts cultural, entrepreneurial, and educational events that groups can take advantage of, further enriching any gathering and making it more meaningful.
What facilities at Baruch College support group meetings and events?
Baruch College’s infrastructure is well suited to accommodate groups for various types of meetings, workshops, and social events. The college buildings feature numerous conference rooms, lecture halls, and common areas equipped with modern technology to facilitate presentations, discussions, and collaborative work. The Bernard L. Schwartz Communication Institute offers resources that support advanced instructional and communication projects, providing groups with a cutting-edge learning environment. For those interested in financial markets or business simulations, the Subotnick Financial Services Center includes the Bert W. and Sandra Wasserman Trading Floor, which brings practical trading experience to life and can be an engaging spot for groups focused on finance or economics. Besides indoor facilities, the campus includes outdoor spaces and pedestrian plazas that encourage mingling and relaxation in between activities. The Starr Career Development Center also hosts career and networking events which are great opportunities for groups aiming to expand professional ties or gain career advice together. Overall, the combination of technical facilities, interactive centers, and versatile gathering spaces makes Baruch College a flexible venue for diverse group activities.
How can visitors reach Baruch College easily?
Getting to Baruch College is straightforward due to its location at One Bernard Baruch Way (55 Lexington Avenue at 24th Street) in Manhattan's Midtown South. The campus is well served by a comprehensive network of public transportation options. The nearby 23rd Street subway stations provide access to the 6 train on Park Avenue South, as well as the N and R trains at Broadway, and F, M, and PATH trains at 6th Avenue, covering various travel routes throughout the city. Bus service is abundant, with several lines—including M1, M2, M3, M15, M23, and more—stopping along adjacent streets like Lexington Avenue, Broadway, and Madison Avenue. For group members coming from outside New York City, Baruch is reachable by commuter trains via Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal, followed by short subway or bus rides. This connectivity reduces stress for attendees traveling from multiple directions and enables groups to plan arrival times conveniently. The admissions welcome center located at 137A E. 25th Street serves as the primary entry point for campus tours and can also assist visitors with directions and information. Clear signage and maps facilitate navigation around the campus itself, helping groups quickly find meeting points or facilities.
What nearby attractions and conveniences enhance a Baruch College meetup?
Meeting at Baruch is not just about the campus; the surrounding neighborhood offers abundant attractions and conveniences that can add vibrancy to your group’s day. The college is nestled in a busy commercial and cultural zone of Manhattan close to landmarks, theaters, galleries, and a multitude of dining options ranging from casual cafés to upscale restaurants. After or before your gathering, groups can take a stroll through nearby parks or explore iconic city streets like 23rd Street for shopping and entertainment. The presence of diverse eateries means your meetup can naturally include shared meals or coffee breaks without needing to leave the immediate area. For those interested in cultural enrichment, the proximity to institutions like the Chelsea Art District or the Flatiron Building adds opportunities for sightseeing. This urban setting supports flexible meetups, where the group can easily shift between formal and informal activities or enjoy a multi-faceted day out in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
What is the atmosphere like at Baruch College for groups?
The atmosphere at Baruch College balances the energy of a bustling city environment with the inviting charm of a college campus, making it highly conducive to group gatherings. During weekdays, the campus buzzes with students, faculty, and staff engaged in academic pursuits and creative projects, which adds a vibrant, youthful, and intellectual dynamic to meeting there. At the same time, the common spaces and outdoor plazas provide relaxing areas where groups can socialize comfortably, away from the noise of the city streets but still feeling connected to the Manhattan pulse. The college’s emphasis on service, innovation, and diversity creates a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere ideal for meetups, regardless of group size or purpose. Whether your gathering is a casual catch-up, a study session, or a workshop, the campus environment helps foster connections and meaningful interaction. Additionally, occasional college events, performances, or talks can energize group activities, offering opportunities to collectively experience something new and stimulating.
What resources at Baruch support a successful group meetup?
Baruch College offers several on-site resources that ensure smooth and successful group meetups. The campus staff provides helpful services including event coordination support, space reservation assistance, and technical support for presentations or special equipment needs. The Starr Career Development Center can offer guidance on planning networking or career-related events, while the communication and teaching centers support innovative use of technology and engagement strategies. Digital tools such as campus maps, virtual tours, and online calendars help groups familiarize themselves with the layout and upcoming activities to better organize their meetup. Food services on or near campus supply a variety of catering options to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs, simplifying shared meals or snacks. All these resources combine to create a hassle-free environment, allowing your group to focus on enjoying the occasion and strengthening connections.
How does Baruch’s rating reflect on group meetups?
Baruch College holds a respectable rating of 4.1 based on over 500 reviews, reflecting a generally positive reputation for its campus environment, accessibility, and facilities. Reviews often highlight the college’s modern infrastructure, convenient location, and the quality of academic and student services, which are important factors contributing to a favorable meetup experience. While some reviews may note the challenges typical of a busy urban campus, such as crowds or noise, these are outweighed by the college’s strengths as an engaging and practical venue. Such a rating indicates that most visitors and users find Baruch’s offerings satisfactory and suited to both individual and group activities. Therefore, groups looking for a dependable and stimulating place to gather in Manhattan would view Baruch as a well-regarded option with the amenities and atmosphere necessary for successful meetups.