Choosing Small Schools or Universities for a More Personal College Experience?

I'm considering applying to smaller schools or universities because I want more personal attention in classes. Does anyone have advice about the benefits or downsides of attending a small college? Is the community atmosphere noticeably different from larger universities?

Absolutely, smaller colleges often differentiate themselves through the personalized attention they provide and the community atmosphere they foster. This comes from smaller class sizes and lower student-to-faculty ratios, which can mean more interactive classes, more direct contact with your professors, and the potential for more personalized academic and career guidance.

On the other hand, smaller colleges tend to offer fewer majors and electives than large universities, so make sure the schools you're considering offer strong programs in your areas of interest.

Regarding community atmosphere, a smaller college can certainly offer a more closely-knit community experience compared with large state universities. However, the type of community can vary widely from college to college, depending on factors such as location, mission of the college, and the types of students it attracts.

Larger universities have their own unique advantages too. They tend to offer more diversity of courses, majors, and extracurricular activities, and they often have more resources such as labs, libraries, and athletic facilities. Some students appreciate the breadth of opportunities and the anonymity that can come from being at a larger college.

Ultimately, the choice between a small college and a large university depends on your personal preferences and what you're hoping to get out of your college experience. Visit the campuses if possible, talk to current students and faculty, and do plenty of research—both online and in-person. You could also consider using CollegeVine's college search tool to identify institutions that align with your preferences.