Generally, a university is considered large if it has more than 15,000 undergraduates. What are some of the benefits of attending a school that size? There are many things to consider when applying to college, and size is definitely an important factor.
Larger schools are often state-funded, so they can come with a much lower price tag than a small, private school. Because of their size, they are frequently found in suburban settings, which makes for cheaper housing and transportation costs. There are also more housing options than on a small campus, so it may be easier to find the perfect place to live.
Do you want to major in something less popular than Biology or English, like Speech and Language Disorders? Big schools have more degrees and class offerings. This variety can be helpful for those who enter college as Undecided majors, as they can try out many different courses. Since classes are offered at a few different times during the day, students at big schools may have more flexibility when it comes to their schedules and may also be able to work. Since class sizes and lecture halls tend to be huge, those who like their anonymity may feel more comfortable at large colleges.
A more sizable undergraduate population also creates a bigger alumni network. This can often bring more funding to the school, which may be partly used to build state-of-the-art facilities. Since large schools are frequently focused on research, they attract excellent teachers who are widely recognized in their field. Because of this, there are many more opportunities to work in research alongside high-profile faculty, although graduate students may get priority for research positions. Not only are the facilities top-notch, but there are many more of them; more libraries, more gems, and multiple dining halls with different meal options. It also means that there are more specialized offices on campus with staff available to help students.
Large universities tend to have a more diverse student body, more clubs, and more extracurricular activities. With so many options it may be easier to find a group to join, and meeting new people all the time is inevitable. Sports fans may feel more at home in this setting, as bigger schools have more of an emphasis on games, rivalries, and school spirit. For those interested in fraternities and sororities, there is often a stronger focus on Greek life on large campuses.
It is easier to get lost in the crowd on a big campus, so students need to be able to speak up for their needs and interests and go after the opportunities they desire. Since there can sometimes be less interaction with professors, smaller schools may be better for students who need extra help or motivation to learn. Smaller schools offer more opportunities for leadership roles because there is less competition for them, and may have more individualized advising available for assistance.
If you are a self-motivated learner who enjoys meeting new people, and you would like to have a variety of experiences, a large university may be ideal for you.
Questions? Let’s chat!
Bettina Weil
Weil College Advising, LLC
Recent Comments