Advantages of Large Private Universities

Hi guys, I'm a bit stuck between the idea of attending a large or a small university. For those who are at or have considered attending one of the biggest private universities in the U.S., what are the pros and cons? What was your reasoning behind choosing a large private institution?

From the perspective of someone who's helped countless students evaluate their college choices, there are several major advantages to attending a large private university.

First of all, large universities, especially private ones, often have robust resources. This can range from well-stocked libraries, well-equipped laboratories, to a variety of student support services. Private universities, being less reliant on state funding, can often invest heavily in their facilities and infrastructure.

They also typically boast a vast array of major options, courses, and extracurricular activities. You're likely to find a course in almost any subject you're interested in, from traditional ones like biology and economics to more specific ones like marine archaeology or astrophysics.

Large universities also provide excellent opportunities for networking given their larger student bodies. With more students, you're likely to meet people from various backgrounds and with differing interests, which can be a great resource personally and professionally.

In terms of faculty, these institutions often attract accomplished professors who are leaders in their respective fields. This can provide students with the opportunity to learn from and work with influential intellectual leaders.

Career services and job placement are often robust at large private schools. Big-name institutions are usually well-known to employers, which usually leads to a robust set of opportunities for on-campus recruiting and job placement.

However, like any other option, attending a large private university has its potential drawbacks too. Classes, especially in lower-division courses, can be large, which may limit one-on-one interaction with professors. You might not have the close-knit community feel that a small college provides.

Decision-making will also largely depend on the individual - some thrive on large campuses with myriad options, whereas others prefer a smaller, more intimate learning environment. When making your decision, think about where you'd feel most comfortable, what learning environment suits your personality and goals best, and the kind of college experience you want to have.