Stony Brook University was founded in 1957 as a science/research institution, one of many new schools created by the Eisenhower administration to spur the American population to compete with the Russian superpower, which had just recently launched the Sputnik shuttle and later the first man into space. According to the council on foreign relations, sputnik’s lingering legacy in the United States is NASA and the internet.
And Stony Brook has certainly grown since then, both in size and in prestige. It covers more than 1,000 acres on the north shore of Long Island, and 98% of the faculty hold doctoral degrees, making Stony Brook one of the top 100 universities in the country and the top 200 in the world. The university is responsible for more than 1,500 inventions and more than 450 patents and discoveries, such as the discovery of only the second case amongst sharks of virginal birth by a team that included Dr. Demian Chapman according to scienceandinventions.com.
This prestige has drawn approximately 10,000 resident students and even more commuter students. These students apply for 65 majors and 77 minors. The majority of them don’t regret their decision to make Stony Brook their jumping off point to the working world or graduate school. Statistics indicate that 94 % of the 2007 graduating class are continuing their education or employed. Stony Brook ranks 23rd amongst public universities for the highest paid graduates according to Payscale.com.
Stony Brook has fulfilled its original purpose as a science/research institution. The National Science Foundation recognized it among ten other universities for combining research with undergraduate education.
Stony Brook has a growing Journalism School, founded by ex-editor at Newsday, Howard Schneider. A strong journalism presence has brought in bountiful new journalism students.
Stony Brook’s mascot has become a well-known symbol on Long Island. “Wolfie” makes appearances at numerous public events from Stony Brook sporting events to charitable events. Anyone who is full of energy should try out for the “Wolfie” team.
The Stony Brook sports program has grown as well. They are Division 1 in every sport, and the basketball team made their first national tournament game last year.
Stony Brook has created a community where exciting college experiences can blend with serious study. One can find many people on campus from faculty to staff to students who are willing to give assistance with everyday problems. It’s all aimed at creating another great year at the Brook.