Marist University

Located on the banks of the historic Hudson River and at its Florence, Italy campus, Marist University is a comprehensive, independent institution grounded in the liberal arts. The University's mission is to "help students develop the intellect, character, and skills required for enlightened, ethical, and productive lives in the global community of the 21st century." Marist educates more than 5,000 traditional-age undergraduate students and 1,400 adult and graduate students over 90 undergraduate majors, minors, and concentrations as well as numerous graduate programs, including fully online MBA, MPA, MS, and MA degrees, and also Doctor of Physical Therapy and Physician Assistant programs.

Founded on core values and a commitment to education, Marist Universityhas been able to grow and adapt since its inception. The University was founded by the Marist Brothers, who first arrived in Poughkeepsie in 1905. The Marist Brothers are famous for their skill and dedication as educators and, even though Marist has not been religiously affiliated for many years, their values remain central to what the University stands for.

Deemed one of the most innovative schools in the nation, students who attend Marist University are given a competitive education that prepares them for the global marketplace upon graduation.

Students identify the community at Marist as "incredibly friendly," and they point out that students have an unspoken "policy to hold the door open for people," "no matter the weather condition." One student commented: "I've never met so many friendly strangers in New York in my life." Another observes that "nearly everyone...is Catholic, but the majority are not religious." While many students herald Marist for its diversity, others claim that appears more "on paper" than on campus. The dominant groups on campus appear to be "athletes," "in the fashion department," or those "studying computers/technology." "I find that students are very hungry for knowledge," says a student. A large portion of the student body also likes to give back: it's common for students to "participate in two hours of weekly community service...[or] help with one-time community-service events."

Marist is near the Hudson River, so students often "fill their days by walking along and laying out...when [the weather] is nice." In the winter, "students may be sledding on snow days or getting together with friends" elsewhere. "A big tradition is jumping into the Hudson River before you graduate," says a student. Indeed, Marist's beauty, which "never fails to amaze" students, offers nearby Rhinebeck and New Paltz for hiking and access to the Walkway Over the Hudson, as well as the chance to just walk around the "rich community." For study time, there are campus cafés, and "there are a lot of cute [off-campus cafés] around Poughkeepsie" too. The library "is a very popular hub for studying, group work, or just [hanging] out." Clubs and intramurals "[give] the campus life after dark." Students also mention that "the student center often holds events like bingo nights, standup [comedy nights], and more." Outside of participating either in sports or clubs, many students "intern in NYC several times a week while also maintaining a social life."