Not sure whether you want to go to a small university or to a big one? Following are some tips that hopefully will help you with the choice.
University may very a lot in size, ranging from under 100 students to over 60 000! It may sound challenging to figure out where you want to be. While choosing, try to imagine what consequences come with the different sizes. Understand which size would be better for you both from the academic point of view and from the social point of view.
Small university
In a small university you are more likely not be just a number. Professors will know each one of their students and you will get to know your professors personally. Classes are smaller, so you will have greater chances to give your contributions. Small groups allow lessons to be more participated and with more interaction. When the time comes, your professors will be able to write knowledgeable recommendation letters.
This tight relation make it possible for professors to focus on the personal development of their students. In other words, you are more likely to get to know yourself better: understand what your interests and abilities are, and figure out what your career path may be. Usually, in small institutes, teachers are more focused on teaching and less on research.
On a practical level, you will be more likely to be able to register for the classes you want and there will be less competition for the use of academic facilities.
Extracurricular activities are more accessible in a small university, and if you don’t find the club you want, you may easily start your own.
Small universities are the right place for those students that want to find their place in a community rather quickly. It is difficult to get lost in a small college. These places often help to build up confidence and self-esteem.
Large university
A large university usually is able to offer a greater variety of courses. This is good especially if you decide to apply to the liberal arts and sciences or if you are still undecided on what major to graduate in.
Classes are normally very crowded making lectures inevitably less interactive. Students that have a more listening based learning style and don’t really like to stand out, prefer this. On the other hand, if you like to stand out and you like a good challenge, that’s your place.
A large institute often can provide advanced facilities and equipment as well as a great number of activities to join in.
Also, a greater community usually includes a great variety of people and this makes it possible for nearly everyone to find a group of friends that share the same interests.
Getting to know yourself is the first fundamental step into deciding the institution you would like to study. Understanding if you would prefer to spend your next few years in a large university or a small one is part of this process. The university you will enrol in will be your home for a while, you should choose a place you will be happy in. The kind of community you will end up in is almost as important as the major you will graduate in.