New York University, East Village, Manhattan, is like the cool cousin you always wanted to hang out with. Located in the vibrant East Village, NYU offers a unique blend of academic rigor and artsy flair. Here's a whirlwind tour of its history and hidden gems:
NYU's Origins: Founded in 1831 by Albert Gallatin, a former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, NYU aimed to be "in and of the city." While the main campus is in Greenwich Village, many NYU buildings spill over into East Village.
Secret Tunnel: Beneath NYU’s Brown Building, once the Asch Building, lies a network of tunnels. These tunnels were allegedly used during Prohibition to smuggle alcohol!
Famous Alumni: The university boasts some seriously cool alumni, including Lady Gaga (who dropped out to pursue her music career), Spike Lee, and Anne Hathaway.
Bobst Library: The Elmer Holmes Bobst Library is not only a study haven but also a design marvel. It features a striking, eight-story atrium with a mesmerizing floor pattern that resembles an optical illusion.
Washington Square Park: Though technically part of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is considered NYU's backyard. The park's iconic arch was modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
The Chem Building: The Brown Building is also infamous for the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911, which led to significant labor reforms in the U.S.
Ghost Stories: The Brittany Hall, a former hotel, is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of its original owner, who allegedly died under mysterious circumstances.
Unique Classes: NYU offers some quirky courses, like "The Science of Happiness" and "The History of Witchcraft," reflecting its diverse academic environment.
Student Housing: Palladium Hall used to be a famous nightclub before NYU converted it into a residence hall. Icons like Madonna and The Clash performed there.
Art Scene: The Tisch School of the Arts is a powerhouse, producing numerous Oscar, Emmy, and Tony winners. It's where creativity meets academia in the most spectacular way.
International Presence: NYU has global academic centers in places like Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, making it a truly international institution.
Quirky Traditions: The annual Strawberry Festival features the world’s longest strawberry shortcake, a delicious way to end the academic year.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives: NYU is big on sustainability, with green roofs, bike-sharing programs, and energy-efficient buildings.
So, whether you're wandering through its historic buildings or chilling in Washington Square Park, NYU's East Village presence makes it a cornerstone of Manhattan's eclectic charm.