How do I decide between a large university and a small liberal arts college?

Hi everyone! I'm a junior and I've been researching different types of colleges. How can I decide whether a large university or a small liberal arts college would be the best fit for me? What are the pros and cons of each? Thanks for your input!

Hey there! It's great that you're thinking about what type of college will be the best fit for you. Having gone through this process with my child, I can share some insights on the differences between large universities and small liberal arts colleges. Large universities often have more diverse course offerings, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities. They may also have more well-known faculty and stronger connections to certain industries. However, they can sometimes feel overwhelming due to their size and competitiveness. On the other hand, small liberal arts colleges tend to have a more tight-knit community and smaller class sizes, which can lead to more personalized attention from professors and stronger relationships with classmates. They often emphasize critical thinking, writing, and communication skills, which can be valuable in many different careers. However, they may have fewer resources and course offerings compared to large universities. Ultimately, it's important to think about what kind of environment you'll thrive in and what your priorities are in terms of academics, social life, and career opportunities. Try visiting some campuses to get a feel for each type of college. Best of luck!