I'm starting to shortlist colleges and I'm interested in large universities because I think they offer a wide range of activities, resources, and opportunities. I want to dive into campus life and be part of a diverse student body.
Does anyone have a rundown of some of the largest universities in the U.S.? I'd love to hear why you think attending a larger school can be beneficial or if there are any downsides that I should be aware of when making my decision.
Your insights and experiences would be a big help as I navigate my college options!
There are a lot of great large universities in the U.S. For instance, Texas A&M University and Arizona State University Tempe campus both have massive student populations, each boasting over 70,000 students. The University of Florida, Ohio State University, and the University of Central Florida also have student bodies well over 60,000.
Typically, larger universities offer a vast number of academic programs and provide a diverse range of opinions and backgrounds among the student body. Large student populations often mean that there are plenty of extracurricular activities and clubs to join, which give you ample opportunities to explore your interests and meet like-minded individuals. Plus, the main campuses of large universities often feature extensive library systems, research opportunities, and other resources.
However, just like any other college, large universities also come with their share of challenges. For instance, some might feel that, due to the vast student population, there isn't a tight-knit community, which would be unlike the experience at a smaller college. Additionally, large class sizes, particularly in introductory courses, may make it difficult for individual attention from professors. On the flip side, as you advance into more specialized coursework, class sizes typically decrease.
Getting involved in smaller clubs or activities and forming study groups are common strategies to make a big university feel smaller. When researching these schools, perhaps check out the specific resources they offer for students to get involved and feel connected on campus. This will vary by school and can be a significant factor in your sense of community and engagement on campus.
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