When I graduated high school, people would ask me where I was going to college and I would tell them Clarion University. Many of them would say, "Oh, so you're going to 13th grade." I found myself very confused the first time I heard this phrase. I wasn't commuting, I was living with people I had never met, I was moving to a different town...I was starting a whole new life! I was beginning college, not continuing high school. Then someone explained what they meant.
The 13th Grade was something that happened when you attended a college that many of your high school classmates were going to as well. In my case, over half of the kids going to college in my graduating class were going to Clarion. Other factors were that I would have smaller classes and that the campus isn't big. My parents would also be able to stop by whenever they wanted since the campus wasn't far from home. People said I wouldn't get the college experience because of these aspects, but I think they were completely wrong.
Here's why the 13th Grade isn't always a bad thing:
1. People you know will be going there. Yes, I know some of those people probably aren't necessarily people you want to hang out with, but some of them could be your best friends! It's scary moving to a place where you don't know anyone else, so having someone by your side during the transition makes it a little easier. Plus, you'll never have to go to the dining hall alone since you know so many people there! What's really great is that your friends from home will make friends, you will make friends, and then you can all be friends and have an even bigger friend group!
2. Classes are about the same size as high school ones. I still don't understand why people see this point as a negative. With small class sizes, you get to have a better relationship with your professors. You're able to have better discussions and be more involved in classroom activities. I really like the fact that the professors know their students by name and then remember you for years to come. They always want to know how you're doing in your other classes and are willing to help you with whatever you need like recommendation letters, homework help, fundraisers, etc.
3. The campus isn't huge. Big campuses are sometimes fun. There are a lot of places to go and there are restaurants right on them. However, small campuses have perks too. The biggest one? It only takes you 5 minutes to get to your classes. This is especially important for the people who suffer from chronic lateness or those who simply like their sleep. Also, if you tend to get lost, no worries! The building you need to be in is most likely only a couple of seconds away.
4. Campus is close to home. Yeah, your parents can stop by, but that can be a good thing. If you leave something at home or forgot to bring it back to school with you, your parents can bring it to you no problem! When they come up, they can take you out to eat! No one can pass up an opportunity to eat somewhere other than the dining hall, let's be real. Your parents will also be able to come see you be recognized for your achievements and attend events. With a hometown that's close, you can take your friends home with you and show them around! You probably know more of the towns around your college as well and can take them there too!
No matter what university you attend, the college experience is there waiting for you. You just have to take the initiative and get involved. College is what you make it, not what others tell you it will be.
