Why the Class of 2030 Chose Montclair State University

Top Takeaways: Why the Class of 2030 Chose Montclair State University

• Top Academic Programs: Majors in Business, Acting, Fashion Design, Media and Exercise Science.
• Proximity to NYC: Quick access to New York City for internships, creative fields and career networking.
• Affordability & Value: Competitive in-state tuition, financial aid packages and campus work opportunities.
• Strong Community & Peer Networks: Campus visits, alumni recommendations and peer connections drive enrollment decisions.

We asked first-year students why they chose to study at Montclair State University. Accordingly, many are here to study Business administration and Accounting, two of Montclair’s top 5 largest academic programs. The others rounding out the Top 5 are Psychology, Biology and Film and Television. 

From academics, affordability and location, here’s what members of the Class of 2030 shared about embarking on their Red Hawk journeys.

Performing Arts and Creative Excellence

Acting and fashion majors heard good things about College of the Arts programs at Montclair and decided to take the leap.

"When I was choosing a major, I knew I wanted something where I could express my creativity. At first, I wanted to go far away, but as I thought about it, I was afraid of getting homesick. When I came to see Montclair, I saw it as the biggest school, and it intimidated me. I looked at other schools, but I found myself coming back to Montclair, and I started falling in love with how big it is. So many people were telling me that the fashion program here was better than the other schools I was looking at. I came here for tours, and I learned more about the program, and I really loved it."

Ileana Zuniga, Fashion Design and Merchandising, Paterson

“I chose Montclair because I heard that their program for acting was extremely strong, and I wanted to challenge myself to take new leads and go further with my career as an actor. I'm also excited to learn from stage combat and dance professors after hearing about them from others.” 

~ Khyree Squire, Theatre, Acting Concentration, Jersey City, NJ

For Some Students it’s All About Location

Many students chose to stay close to their New Jersey hometowns and Montclair was the perfect place, close to home but far enough to provide some independence. 

“I heard about Montclair because they have an amazing business program, and I was really excited because it's close to New York for endless internships and opportunities in the business world. Also, I got recruited to play softball here, so it's a win-win for me.”

Ella Lagomarsino, Business Administration, Management concentration, Glen Gardner, NJ

“I’ve always had an eye for this campus. I like that it’s so close to New York. It’s a fantastic opportunity, and I can learn a lot.”

Joziah Rivera, Business Administration, Management concentration, Netcong, NJ

“One of the main reasons I decided on Montclair was I figured it was a great distance for me and my family. We could be a little bit apart but still stay close together. The school has a lot to offer that I'm interested in, not just my major, but in all aspects — the arts, business and science and all that. Financial aid and getting to work as a lifeguard, something he’s been doing since he was 15, also factored into his decision. “I did get a little bit of aid, which helped a bit. It’s a great opportunity. I’m excited.”

Walsh moved in early because of his training as a lifeguard at the Student Recreation Center; he’ll also work as a lifeguard at The Village pool and Panzer Fitness Center. 

Jaxon Walsh, Accounting, Mansfield Township, NJ

“I thought it was a nice campus. I like how it’s close to the city, and there were internship possibilities. I wanted to be in a creative field in business.”

Elysia Oliveras, Business Administration, Marketing concentration, Goshen, NY

Summer Programs Make a Difference

“Last summer, I attended a summer program here. My friend told me about it, and she said that I would really like the film program. I was here for a week, and I just loved it.”  

Makenzie Plummer, Communications and Media Studies, Washington, D.C.

Peer Recommendations and Campus Community

Sometimes, all it takes is a trusted source to tell you how great a place is to make a decision.

“I visited three colleges and Montclair was the most affordable choice for me. I can definitely see myself here for the next four years.”

Dominic Lugo, Sports Communication, Long Branch, NJ

“Dom, who was already committed, sold it to me. He said it's a good campus, and it's in a nice area. Then the idea of dorming came up. Today is my first time coming here. But I went on Google Maps, I took a little virtual tour, and I watched some videos. I looked at other spots as well but I like Montclair. I'm excited to talk to people, make new friends, go to a bunch of parties — and study, of course.”

Adam Abdelwahed, Business Administration, Finance minor, Long Branch, NJ

“I was researching in-state colleges while at my physical therapy internship and Montclair was mentioned as a recommended school (fellow church members also had graduated from Montclair). I like that it’s close to New York, and this is a really pretty, spacious campus with lots of opportunities and activities.”

~ Michaella Mbaye, Exercise Science, Hamilton, NJ

The Strength of Montclair Family Ties

Jeremy Torres was only 3 when he first set foot on the Montclair campus with his father Joel Torres, a then-adjunct professor in the Department of Public Health and ‘11 and ‘14 alumni. Jeremy’s sister Tanya Calderon is currently a senior at Montclair and his mother Lady Jimenez Torres works as the university’s Assistant Director of Government Relations and Community Affairs in the President’s office. So there was never really a question what college Torres would attend.

“It's the one place that I’ve really been wanting to go.” ~ Jeremy Torres, Accounting, West Caldwell, NJ