Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City, Columbia University boasts a prestigious location on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. This puts students at the epicenter of the Northeast Corridor’s rich cultural and academic scene, offering unparalleled access to a wealth of resources, especially for those immersed in the study of Classical Antiquity. Imagine being steps away from world-class universities, iconic libraries, renowned museums, captivating galleries, and celebrated theaters. This is the reality for Columbia students. Furthermore, Columbia’s strategic position as a major transportation hub for air and train travel along the East Coast ensures effortless connectivity to other leading classics departments and facilitates the university’s role as a frequent host to classics-related events and visiting scholars.
Columbia’s home is the charming neighborhood of Morningside Heights, a quintessential academic enclave bordered by 110th Street to the south, 125th Street to the north, the scenic Riverside Park to the west, and the tranquil Morningside Park to the east. This Upper West Side gem is not just Columbia’s domain; it’s a thriving hub of learning, also housing Barnard College, two esteemed theological seminaries, the Manhattan School of Music, and Teachers College, among other institutions. This concentration of academic energy cultivates a student-centric and budget-friendly atmosphere. Morningside Heights is replete with restaurants and bars catering to student life, while the verdant expanses of Riverside and Morningside Parks offer immediate escapes from campus bustle. The iconic Central Park is also within easy walking distance, extending the neighborhood’s recreational offerings. Importantly, Morningside Heights is recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in New York City, characterized by a peaceful residential ambiance that ensures a quiet environment when study time is over.
Students quickly discover that Morningside Heights functions as a self-contained college town, providing all essential amenities and a strong sense of community, while simultaneously being seamlessly integrated into the vast cultural tapestry of New York City. Columbia’s advantageous location directly on the 1 Subway line grants swift and straightforward access to Manhattan’s diverse neighborhoods and attractions. From the performing arts at Lincoln Center to the bohemian charm of the West Village and the dazzling lights of Times Square, the city is effortlessly within reach. The subway’s 24/7 operation ensures that returning to the Columbia campus is always convenient, regardless of the hour.
Within Columbia University, the Classics Department is ideally situated on the 6th floor of Hamilton Hall. This dedicated space provides a suite of resources designed to support advanced study, including a computer room, a specialized departmental library, a graduate student lounge fostering collaboration and relaxation, and an office for Teaching Assistants and Teaching Fellows. While campus-wide libraries may operate on a reduced schedule during evenings and weekends, Teaching Fellows enjoy 24-hour access to the Classics department facilities, ensuring continuous access to essential resources. The recently renovated graduate lounge provides an enhanced environment for both focused work and informal socializing. Collectively, the Classics department’s facilities cultivate a welcoming and productive environment, often becoming a central and cherished space for graduate students throughout their academic journey at Columbia.
