When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
General Assembly
Why General Assembly is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
General Assembly is a leading private education organization specializing in technology, business, and design courses that make it an excellent place to meet up with friends who are enthusiastic about learning and career growth. Founded in 2011 in New York City, it has grown globally with campuses across multiple continents, providing a vibrant community of learners and industry experts. Whether you want to explore coding, data science, product management, or user experience design, General Assembly offers a variety of immersive full-time and part-time programs as well as short workshops. Its focus on practical, hands-on training means that students not only gain knowledge but also develop real-world skills crucial for launching or advancing tech careers. The school’s collaborative environment, small class sizes with low student-teacher ratios, and an active network support meaningful connections and friendships. Additionally, General Assembly is known for inclusive initiatives such as supporting women in technology and offering discounted programs to underserved communities, making it a socially conscious place to engage with like-minded peers while learning. With many alumni successfully employed post-graduation and a commitment to ongoing talent development, General Assembly is a dynamic venue for friends to grow their professional skills together in an inspiring and supportive setting.
Here's what people think of General Assembly
As of recent, General Assembly holds a 4.1-star rating based on 117 reviews.
General Assembly enjoys a generally positive reception, reflected in its 4.1-star rating from over 100 reviews. Users often appreciate the quality of instruction, praising the knowledgeable and industry-experienced instructors who provide practical and hands-on learning opportunities. Many reviews highlight the supportive community and networking events that help students connect with peers and potential employers, contributing to a valuable career transition experience. Positive feedback frequently mentions the immersive bootcamp structure which accelerates learning and job readiness in technology fields like software engineering and data science. However, some negative reviews point to the high cost of tuition as a barrier for many prospective students, with concerns over financial value for certain programs. A minority of users mention that course pacing or content depth did not fully meet their expectations, and some found career support services could be improved. Despite these issues, many students find the overall education valuable and the career outcomes favorable, with a significant percentage of graduates gaining employment post-completion. In conclusion, General Assembly delivers robust tech education with strong community support and career services, though prospective students should carefully consider program costs and their personal learning goals when enrolling.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kairo Ribeiro
Guys this is a scam. The data that you read all over the internet are not true. First the acceptance to the program being something around 15%: lie. Literally everyone gets accepted. Then that over 90% get a job after: lie. They made up all those numbers and replicate in other platforms like Career Karma to trick you. They make you believe that they have connections with companies like apple and google and they will help you get a job: also a lie. Don’t waste your money with this.
Sricharan Kaliki
just a waste of money. I took coding classes here and the instructors was awful, he kept talking about unnecessary topics of how kids these days are mentally ill and always have problems and stupid stuff no one wants to hear about. Basically read off a script of what to do while having no actual clue about what he was teaching. i quitted nearly a month in but they still asked for half the tuition which is stupid
Ekin Uzer
I initially contacted the General Assembly admissions team on June 29 to inquire about their UX Design Bootcamp. Despite my enthusiasm and multiple follow-up emails, it has been an entire month without a proper phone call or sufficient responses. Most of my emails went unanswered, and the lack of communication has been extremely frustrating. As someone who is very keen to join their program, this experience has been disappointing.
lisa watson
A complete scam. I participated in the online UX course last year. The program is $16,000 and you have to research and do everything yourself. Most of the instructors and career coaches are recent graduates with no real life work experience. For those that do work, teaching the course is a side job. You aren’t guaranteed a job upon graduation. They say 98% of graduates get jobs, but that’s not true at all. They hire everyone from within the program to inflate the numbers. When you first inquire about the program on the website, they immediately call you with pushy sales techniques and grandiose claims that are false and too good to be true. Seems a bit like an MLM. It’s extremely overpriced for you to have to learn and teach yourself everything. They also claim anyone can do the program with no experience or knowledge. This is also not true. I wasted 3 months and 16k, to barely learn anything. My entire class felt the same way. There are plenty of other tutorials and programs people can do that are way cheaper.
Thomas Pera
I took the Python Programming 10 week course and learned very little. The instructor was lost and wasted a lot of class time. Classes frequently started late and on at least one occasion was cancelled with very little notice. I asked if I could switch into the same course running concurrently with a different instructor and the staff was unhelpful and even insulting. Avoid this organization! Happy to take your money; not helpful after that point. Huge waste of my time.
How to reach General Assembly
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Website: None
Why General Assembly may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at General Assembly with your friends? General Assembly offers a unique combination of a vibrant, open-minded community and a professional learning environment that makes it an ideal spot to connect, collaborate, and grow together. Whether you and your friends are tech enthusiasts, aspiring designers, marketers, or entrepreneurs, General Assembly's dynamic spaces provide a rich atmosphere for group meetups that go beyond just social interactions—they foster shared experiences around learning and innovation. The location—situated in the heart of New York City—adds to its appeal, making it easily accessible while surrounded by the city’s creative energy. Its reputation for being welcoming and inclusive of people from diverse backgrounds means you and your friends can feel comfortable and inspired, regardless of your previous experience level. Plus, their variety of course offerings and relaxed yet professional vibe create the perfect backdrop for productive gatherings where you can learn together, brainstorm ideas, or simply enjoy each other’s company in a space buzzing with innovation.
What activities are available at General Assembly that make it perfect for group meetups? General Assembly specializes in a range of immersive courses and workshops in areas such as coding, data science, user experience design, marketing, and product management. These hands-on sessions are taught by industry professionals in both full-time and part-time formats, allowing friends or colleagues to join in learning experiences tailored to your schedules. The small class sizes—capped at about 25 students in physical locations—ensure personal attention and a sense of community. Beyond formal classes, the space often hosts networking events, guest speaker sessions, and hackathons that encourage collaboration and socializing among peers. These activities are fantastic for groups who want to share challenges and triumphs in real time, deepening friendships through joint problem-solving and creative exploration. Moreover, the welcoming environment supports open conversation and exchange of ideas, further enriching the group dynamic during your visit.
How does General Assembly foster collaboration and learning for groups? Beyond being a regular educational institution, General Assembly is designed to be a hub of interaction and mutual growth. Its open workspaces and quiet zones cater to different needs, whether your group prefers brainstorming loudly or focusing quietly on projects. Many students and visitors comment on the open-minded and respectful culture, where people from diverse backgrounds and skill levels work side-by-side. This inclusivity helps breakdown barriers and encourages your group to engage with others, exchanging knowledge and expanding your network. The instructors and staff are also highly accessible, providing guidance and feedback that can elevate your group’s learning experience. This environment supports not just individual growth but collective achievement, making it a fertile ground for friends or family members to rally together around shared interests and career ambitions.
What makes the location and surroundings of General Assembly ideal for group meetups? Situated at 902 Broadway in New York City, General Assembly is nestled in a bustling area with easy access to public transit, restaurants, cafes, and cultural spots—all perfect for extending your meetup beyond the classroom. After a productive session or workshop, your group can explore nearby eateries or cozy coffee shops to decompress and discuss ideas over food and drinks. The vibrant neighborhood energy encourages a seamless blend of work, learning, and socialization. Moreover, the modern and thoughtfully designed interiors of General Assembly itself contribute to a comfortable and inspiring environment. Large windows, communal tables, and breakout rooms create varied atmospheres suitable for different group activities, from intense problem-solving sessions to casual chats. This thoughtful physical setup amplifies the appeal as a meetup spot, turning education into a social and enjoyable experience.
How does General Assembly’s community and culture enhance your meetup experience? The culture at General Assembly is frequently described as fun, inclusive, and supportive, which profoundly impacts the quality of your group interactions. Despite being a fast-paced, hard-working setting, the institution emphasizes respect and openness, welcoming people from all walks of life. This is ideal for groups who value diverse perspectives and a supportive social environment. The staff and fellow learners foster a spirit of encouragement, making it easier to tackle challenging subjects and celebrate achievements together. Additionally, the presence of like-minded professionals and students offers ample opportunities for your group to meet new people, share career advice, or find potential collaborators. Such an environment enhances not just the learning curve but the social bonds within your group and with the wider community.
What about the practicalities of hosting your group meetup at General Assembly? Logistically, General Assembly is well-equipped to accommodate groups with various needs. The facilities include fast Wi-Fi, ample power outlets, and comfortable seating suitable for extended sessions. With classroom sizes designed for intimate learning, your small or medium-sized group will find the environment neither overwhelming nor isolating. The combination of on-campus and online options also provides flexibility if members cannot always meet in person. Pricing models accommodate different commitments—from short courses to extensive bootcamps—allowing your group to select what fits best. Though some reviews mention that the environment can be intense due to the immersive nature of the programs, many see this as a motivating factor that enhances the overall experience. For groups looking to blend education with social connection in a vibrant setting, General Assembly strikes a well-balanced chord.
How can General Assembly benefit groups seeking professional growth together? Many groups of friends or colleagues who attend General Assembly find it invaluable for joint skill development and career progression. The comprehensive curriculum covers the latest industry trends and practical skills that are highly relevant in today’s job market. Learning side-by-side can increase motivation, accountability, and retention since friends often encourage each other to push through difficulties. The institute also boasts strong hiring partnerships and a global alumni network, which can open doors for your group professionally. Whether you’re looking to switch careers, upskill for new responsibilities, or launch a startup, General Assembly’s ecosystem supports these ambitions with expert instructors, real-world projects, and career services. This makes your gathering not only a social outing but a meaningful step toward shared professional goals.
What should you expect from the customer experience at General Assembly? While General Assembly has an overall positive rating, it is important to note that some reviews cite occasional issues with communication and organizational clarity. These challenges can sometimes affect scheduling or administration, but many alumni emphasize that the quality of instruction and community remains strong. The staff is generally described as supportive and knowledgeable, and the ongoing updates to curriculum and teaching methods keep the experience relevant. If your group is prepared to actively engage and navigate occasional imperfections, the enriching content and networking opportunities far outweigh these concerns. Planning your meetup with clear expectations and open lines of communication will help maximize the benefit from your time at General Assembly.
Why is General Assembly a memorable spot beyond just an educational venue? Beyond offering top-tier education, General Assembly creates an atmosphere that encourages creativity, innovation, and connection. For groups, this means more than gathering for classes—you’re entering a lively ecosystem that promotes unexpected collaborations, inspiring conversations, and the joy of learning alongside others. The blend of professional growth with social engagement often leaves lasting impressions and bonds beyond the classroom. Whether your group is preparing for future careers, navigating life changes, or simply exploring new interests together, the experience here can be transformative. This combination of educational rigor and social vibrancy makes General Assembly a standout destination for group meetups with friends or family who want to grow, learn, and connect deeply in a supportive urban setting.