Our out-of-state students and alumni have a lot to say about their college searches, their enrollment decisions and their experiences at The College of New Jersey. Here’s a small sampling of their words of wisdom:
“When meeting fellow out-of-state students, I get to learn more about cities that I have never heard of before, which only continues to open my mind. So although being from out of state seems intimidating, choosing TCNJ encouraged me to learn more about others and gave me a support system. And most importantly, I found a home farther away from home than most people. I hope wherever you end up, you find that support system and home away from home!”
Gianna – Pennsylvania
Biomedical Engineering Major; Class of 2025
“The promise of a hands-on, small classroom learning experience and seeing that backed up with state of the art labs, maker spaces, observatories, and theaters made me realize that I could be whatever I wanted to be at TCNJ. I felt at that moment that the campus was the perfect environment to grow, try new things, and discover my passions, and now, as a student, I know that I was right to trust that gut feeling.”
Eitan – New York
Biology Major; Class of 2026
“3 reasons why I chose TCNJ was for the location, opportunities, and accomplishments. No matter where you’re from, TCNJ is the perfect place to find a home away from home. Within the first week, you are immediately immersed in the friendly and positive atmosphere created by the staff and fellow students. The memories, opportunities, and friends I’ve made remind me each day that I made the best decision.”
Brendan – Pennsylvania
Special Education/Elementary -History Major; Class of 2026
“Being an out of state student did not really affect my experience in making friends and meeting new people in the slightest. Meeting new people from different backgrounds, especially geographically, is eye-opening, and exciting. I also bonded very well with other out of state students, from many other states. I personally loved the aspect of meeting new people whom I may have never met otherwise, and gained so many new experiences that TCNJ had to offer.”
Julianna – New York
Biology Major; Class of 2020
“Being from New York, TCNJ was my top choice all along, even compared to SUNY schools and universities in other states outside of New York and New Jersey that I looked at during the college process. TCNJ is a hidden gem when it comes to academics, financial aid, and overall college experience, so don’t let the fact that it is a New Jersey state school deter you from embracing all that TCNJ has to offer!”
Kelly, NY
Psychology Major, Marketing Minor; Class of 2025
“The first thing about TCNJ that caught my eye was the size of the school, it is often described as the perfect goldie locks school- not too big, but not too small! I am able to walk around campus and see someone I know, while also meeting someone new every single day. The size has also allowed for such amazing leadership and involvement opportunities that could not be found at a larger school. I have been able to serve as Freshman Class President, sit on my sororities executive board, and have participated in two different faculty led research groups. Utilizing the relationships I developed with my professors in conjunction with our Career Center, I was selected for and have completed two internship/ co-op experiences. There are so many wonderful resources on campus to make each student successful in their own way.
Katie, PA
Communications Studies Major, Marketing Minor; Class of 2023
“TCNJ has proven to me and all of my colleagues that a college can become a second home. Along with the beautiful scenery and sociable atmosphere, this school has ensured my confidence and excitement as I walk the friendly paths of this campus. It is rare to find a location like TCNJ that makes me feel as welcomed and enthusiastic!”
Noelle, PA
Secondary Education-History Major; Class of 2024
“For me, TCNJ seemed like a place that everyone felt at home. I was attracted by the encouraging academic environment, and the immense feeling of community at the school. I have truly found my home away from home at TCNJ – through my friends, my peers, and the academic and social opportunities TCNJ has provided for me. Coming to college not knowing anyone was an extremely scary experience, but I immediately knew I made the right decision when I stepped onto campus on move-in day and was welcomed by warm and smiling faces.”
Victoria, NY
Mechanical Engineering Major; Class of 2022