Why I Chose York College

By Julianna Orkin ‘23

College application season is upon us, and you may be trying to figure out where to apply, how you’ll know your school will be a good fit, and what being away from home is like. Here are some reasons why York College was a great fit for me, and may be a great fit for you as you get ready to take the next step in your education

1. When I went on a tour I felt like I could picture myself on campus walking to and from all the buildings 

My admissions counselor gave me an overview of what it’s like to be a York College student as we walked to Evelyn and Earle Wolf Hall. Since I visited when classes were in session, I was able to get a feel of the friendly campus environment and sit in on classes that I would likely take as a student in the Mass Communication program. 

As part of my visit, I had the opportunity to have lunch in Johnson Dining Hall with a current Mass Communication student, which gave me a feel for what eating there would be like. I was surprised at how many food options there were, and decided on a bowl of broccoli cheddar soup — perfect for a cold February day! 

2. Small classes 

My college classes at YCP have been about the same size as my high school classes, but are sometimes smaller. Most classes range anywhere from 15 to 30 students in my experience, so I never have to sit in a huge lecture hall. I really felt like there was an opportunity to know my professors by name and for them to know me. Even now, my professors still remember me and we catch up when we see each other around campus. 

3. Affordable tuition, with plenty of scholarship opportunities available

I’m an out-of-state student from New York. For a lot of students, going to an in-state school is the most cost efficient option — but the scholarships I received from York College (based on merit and being an out-of-state student) made it possible for me to experience living and studying in a new state. As a Jewish student, I also received the Doris and Bernard Gordon Scholarship.

4. There’s something for everyone. 

York has over 100 clubs and organizations, and if there’s something different that you want to see on campus, it’s easy to start your own organization too! Becoming involved in a student organization is a great way to meet friends with like-minded interests, and you can join most organizations at any time simply by showing up to an event or emailing the leader or department where the organization is based. There are also opportunities to sign up to be part of a club during the involvement fairs at the beginning of each semester.   

There are a wide variety of faith-based organizations on campus too, so you can stay connected to your faith even while you’re at school. We have opportunities for involvement with Hillel, Newman, Young Life, and Intervarsity. I personally found my home at Hillel. From the Friday night Shabbat dinners with friends in the Gordon Center, Executive Board meetings, and homework time, I practically live in the Gordon Center. Plus there are some tasty snacks too, so ask to stop in on your next visit! 

5. York is a great area with amazing places to eat and lots of local businesses 

To be totally honest, I didn’t know anything about downtown York as an incoming student, but I did know I wanted to be in a town with lots of small businesses and things to do. There is an amazing arts community downtown, along with loads of restaurants and small businesses owned by York locals. I highly recommend taking advantage of the area and getting downtown to try out some of the many restaurants and coffee places. My personal favorites are Green Bean Roasting Company, Archetype Pizza, and Ironhorse York. 

York College has an entrance to the Heritage Rail Trail that can easily take you downtown, and there’s also a direct route downtown by using the bus or your car. Downtown York also has First Fridays, where on the first Friday of each month, many of the businesses and cafes are open late so people can walk around and grab dinner in the evening after work. The college usually provides transportation from campus tor this event.

As a student at York College, I’ve had the opportunity to receive a well-rounded education, become involved in student organizations that interest me, and make connections with artists downtown. If you’re interested in a small school and are looking for a friendly environment with a great area to walk around near campus, York College is the place for you.