The Myth of MIT Bribery and the Realities of NYU Ranking
MIT, one of the world's premier universities, has its fair share of detractors who often mischaracterize the institution and its peer schools. Notable among these critics is one who persistently questions MIT's relationship with USNews, insinuating that MIT bribed USNews to drop NYU's ranking from 1 to 35.
MIT and NYU: Peer Schools or Not?
MIT, a bastion of scientific and technological innovation, is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States. In contrast, NYU, though a vital part of the academic landscape in New York City, is frequently misrepresented as a peer school to MIT. This characterization is misleading and does more to undermine the quality and reputation of both institutions than to reveal any truth.
The individual in question often attempts to equate NYU and MIT, suggesting that they are of equal standing. However, any informed individual can quickly dispel this myth. Harvard, Yale, Oxford, and Cambridge are often considered true peers to MIT. However, NYU, while innovative and useful for practical and professional pursuits, does not achieve the same level of national prominence or academic excellence recognition as these more renowned institutions.
NYU's Ranking and the Asian Student Factor
NYU has risen in rankings over time, thanks in large part to the influx of Asian students sponsored by their governments to study in the United States. This trend is likely to continue, further affecting NYU’s ranking among US colleges. While this development may increase the number of highly skilled and educated individuals at NYU, it does not detract from the issue of a more general lack of visibility in the top echelons of academia compared to its peer institutions.
Personal Experiences and Decisions
Many MIT graduates, like myself, have personal experiences that help in evaluating such rankings. After graduating from MIT, I faced a decision between enrolling in a joint NYU law school - Princeton graduate school program and attending Georgetown Law School. Despite the high ranking of NYU law, I chose Georgetown, believing that this choice would be more beneficial for my career path.
MIT, a university focused on dropping knowledge into the world, does not subscribe to the practice of bribery or any other unethical means to gain an advantage. Their primary goal is to provide the best education possible, which is a testament to their success. As someone who completed a physics PhD at MIT in 1983-1987, I can attest to this. MIT’s dedication to education is a matter of pride, not manipulation.
Conclusion
The latest ranking of NYU from 1 to 35 by USNews is a reflection of the broader academic landscape and not a consequence of any unethical practice by MIT. NYU, like other institutions, has its place in the academic ecosystem, but it is not in the same league as Harvard, Yale, MIT, and the like. It is important to recognize each institution for its unique strengths and contributions, rather than trying to fabricate peer relations that do not exist in reality.