Introduction
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, or RPI, is an esteemed research university located in Troy, New York. Founded in 1824, RPI has a long and illustrious history of excellence in academics and research, as well as a reputation for fostering a vibrant student life. It is also home to a diverse student body, with students from all over the world. RPI is known for its strong engineering and technology programs, but also offers a wide range of graduate and undergraduate degrees in a variety of disciplines.
RPI is a great place to learn and grow, and it’s no wonder that so many students choose to attend. Here are 20 fun facts about Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute that you may not know.
1. RPI was the first school in the United States to offer a degree in engineering
RPI was founded in 1824, and was the first school in the United States to offer a degree in engineering. This degree was the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Since then, RPI has continued to be a leader in engineering education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering and technology.
2. RPI is home to the oldest student-run newspaper in the United States
The Polytechnic, RPI’s student-run newspaper, was founded in 1868 and is the oldest student-run newspaper in the United States. The Polytechnic is published twice a week and provides students with news and information about campus events, sports, and other topics of interest.
3. RPI has an impressive alumni network
RPI has an impressive alumni network, with over 100,000 living alumni in over 150 countries around the world. Notable alumni include film director Ang Lee, former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, and Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman.
4. RPI is home to the oldest continuously running student-run radio station in the United States
WRPI is RPI’s student-run radio station, and it is the oldest continuously running student-run radio station in the United States. WRPI broadcasts a variety of music, news, and talk programming, and is available online and on the airwaves in the Capital Region.
5. RPI is home to the oldest student-run business in the United States
The RPI Student Union, founded in 1882, is the oldest student-run business in the United States. The student union offers a variety of services, from printing and copying to a mailroom and a convenience store.
6. RPI has a rich history of innovation
RPI has a long history of innovation and invention. Notable inventions include the first electric car, the first digital computer, and the first artificial heart.
7. RPI has a strong focus on sustainability
RPI is committed to sustainability, and has been recognized by the Princeton Review as one of the greenest universities in the United States. RPI has implemented a variety of sustainability initiatives, including energy-efficient buildings, a campus-wide recycling program, and a commitment to renewable energy.
8. RPI has a vibrant student life
RPI is home to a vibrant student life, with over 200 student organizations and clubs. There are also a variety of student-run events, such as concerts, lectures, and film screenings.
9. RPI has a strong athletics program
RPI has a strong athletics program, with teams in a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, baseball, and lacrosse. RPI also has a strong intramural sports program, with teams in a variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, and flag football.
10. RPI is home to a variety of research centers
RPI is home to a variety of research centers, including the Center for Automation Technologies and Systems, the Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, and the Center for Computational Innovations. These research centers are dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation in a variety of fields.
11. RPI has a strong commitment to the arts
RPI has a strong commitment to the arts, and offers a variety of courses in the arts and humanities. There are also a variety of student-run arts organizations, such as the RPI Players and the RPI Dance Company.
12. RPI is home to a variety of museums and galleries
RPI is home to a variety of museums and galleries, including the Rensselaer Union Art Gallery, the Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center, and the Rensselaer County Historical Society. These museums and galleries showcase a variety of artwork, from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary works.
13. RPI has a strong focus on entrepreneurship
RPI has a strong focus on entrepreneurship, and offers a variety of courses and programs to help students develop their entrepreneurial skills. RPI also has a variety of student-run organizations, such as the RPI Entrepreneurship Club, which provide students with the opportunity to network and learn from experienced entrepreneurs.
14. RPI is home to the oldest student-run theater in the United States
The RPI Players is the oldest student-run theater in the United States. Founded in 1884, the RPI Players produces a variety of theatrical productions throughout the year.
15. RPI has a strong commitment to community service
RPI has a strong commitment to community service, and offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for students. RPI also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as the annual Troy River Fest, which celebrates the local community.
16. RPI is home to a variety of student organizations
RPI is home to a variety of student organizations, from academic and professional organizations to cultural and religious organizations. These organizations provide students with the opportunity to get involved in a variety of activities, from networking and learning to socializing and volunteering.
17. RPI is home to the oldest student-run television station in the United States
WRPI-TV is RPI’s student-run television station, and it is the oldest student-run television station in the United States. WRPI-TV broadcasts a variety of programming, from news and sports to movies and music videos.
18. RPI is home to a variety of student-run publications
RPI is home to a variety of student-run publications, including The Polytechnic, RPI’s student-run newspaper, and The Bridge, RPI’s student-run magazine. These publications provide students with the opportunity to express their opinions and share their stories.
19. RPI has an impressive library system
RPI has an impressive library system, with over 1.5 million volumes and access to a variety of electronic resources. The library system also offers a variety of services, from research assistance to interlibrary loan.
20. RPI has a strong commitment to diversity
RPI has a strong commitment to diversity, and is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students. RPI offers a variety of resources to support students of all backgrounds, including the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the RPI Alliance.”