Large Universities vs. Small Colleges: What Size is Best for You?

Factors to Consider when Choosing a College

The decision between attending a large university vs. a small college is actually one of the most influential decisions you’ll have to make in the college admissions process. Such a choice impacts your college environment, the opportunities available to you, and the outside community in which you will live. 

At Marks Education, we understand the importance of finding a best-fit school that aligns with your individual needs, aspirations, and personality. There are so many great colleges out there, and there is bound to be one that’s right for you, from large universities with over 50,000 students to smaller colleges with a couple thousand students. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, but it’s worth thinking about how your interests and goals collide with both.

The Pros and Cons of Large Universities

When you’re deciding between large or small, rural or urban, you’re making important decisions about your campus preferences and what kind of social, academic, and professional scenes you want to have access to. 

Large universities not only offer fantastic academic and professional opportunities but are also often research powerhouses that make major contributions to developments in science, technology, and humanitarianism. It’s not uncommon for students at large universities to have opportunities that are not available at smaller schools. They’re also exposed to a greater number of professional opportunities and likely the unique chance to participate in undergraduate research with faculty who are leading their fields. This is not only likely to enrich your undergraduate learning experience, but also gives you great items to add to your resume! There are also more likely to be conferences, seminars, and guest lectures by global experts available on your campus. While smaller schools might have frequent visitors too, it might not match the scale of larger schools.

Another significant advantage of large universities worth considering is their wide array of student services and facilities. Large schools have comprehensive health and wellness centers, career counseling, and sometimes even job placement services. Large universities also tend to invest heavily in student support. This helps make your home away from home more welcoming and supportive. 

The diversity of the student body at a large university also means a rich campus environment, with many cultural organizations, language exchange programs, and international student groups for you to experience. You’ll have more chances to meet new people and experience new ways of life.

However, the scale of large universities can sometimes lead to feelings of anonymity if you’re not comfortable with or used to that kind of environment. You may need to take more proactive steps to build personal connections and find communities, and that isn’t something everyone wants to do. There can be more competition for campus opportunities, and even within the outside community. These are certainly things worth considering as you plan to move forward.

The Pros and Cons of Small Colleges

On the flip side, small colleges are great options for many students because they offer a more personalized experience. The faculty-to-student ratios are typically lower, which allows for more personalized attention and mentorship opportunities. This can change your learning experience and make it easier for you to excel academically and form lasting relationships with your professors. Small colleges often pride themselves on creating a tight-knit community, which can ease the transition to college life from high school and help you create a strong sense of belonging.

The curriculum at small colleges is also frequently designed to encourage interdisciplinary study, allowing students to easily combine diverse interests into one plan of study. This flexibility can be beneficial for students with multidisciplinary aspirations or those who hope to design their own major.

There are also many leadership opportunities in smaller schools, with greater chances for students to take on significant roles in student organizations, community service projects, and campus initiatives. These activities look great on your resume and can help you secure a job after graduation. 

However, the more intimate setting of a small college might not suit everyone. Students seeking the rush of a large city, or the anonymity of a sprawling campus, might find the close-knit environment constraining. Additionally, while small colleges have a lot to offer, they still may lack the resources, academic programs, and extracurricular opportunities available at bigger schools.

Making the Choice That’s Right for You

As you consider your options, remember to weigh not just the academic and career opportunities each school offers, but also the environment in which you will thrive. 

You don’t need to make this decision on your own, though. The advisors at Marks Education are here to provide guidance, support, and the insights needed to choose the best fit college path to suit your aspirations and personality. Reach out to us, and let’s start on this journey together to ensure that your college choice leads to a fulfilling and enriching academic experience.