The typical college picture is painted in our mentalities as the quintessential busy campus overflowing with school spirit, noted by arenas packed with sports fans and rampant with the wildest of parties. However, these images only account for a portion of campuses across the nation. Therefore, the lifestyles of those students throughout the span of American colleges vary greatly. While many typical aspects persist for college on a general basis, the divide between the experience of life as a student of a larger school and that of one much smaller is severe. Although the more massive schools are often revered as superior, the truth of the matter lies in the preference of each individual college student. Pros and cons lie within both categories of colleges and universities. By way of first-hand experience and accounts from my friends who attend schools across the vast spectrum of options, I feel as though I am aware enough of both options to analyze both of their advantages and disadvantages.
Stepping foot on a big state school campus instantly fills you with an energizing feeling. Whether that energy excites you or overwhelms you is individually case dependent. These campuses are not for the easily exasperated, but rather those with “down for whatever” personalities. It’s easy to feel lost, physically or mentally, in a university so vast and so intensely populated. However, those who thrive amongst a variety of persons would likely prefer a chaotic atmosphere. The magnitude of student population allows for perhaps the most exciting atmosphere for athletic and social events. The school pride experienced within the football stadiums of schools such as Pennsylvania State University or the University of Maryland is indescribable. Additionally, the parties that take place across these campuses are undoubtedly some of the craziest that I’ve experienced in every sense.
While these events may quite possibly be the most prominent memories of your collegiate experience, the aftermath of exhaustion they generate must be acknowledged. The ability to recover from the intensities experienced on just one night out is a skill that must be acquired in order to survive life on this type of campus. Furthermore, the capability of combating the dreaded “fomo” (fear of missing out) is vital. Although you may think that you can withstand the tole taken by endless nights of partying, there’s simply no way to simultaneously succeed in your classes whilst spending each week night in a frat or a bar. While considering a larger school, you must realistically acknowledge your capabilities in terms of partying. Don't overestimate yourself and recognize how you choose to prioritize your social and academic calendars.
On the other hand, a small school does not necessarily imply that it is boring or uneventful. There is something to be said for the beauty of a night in. I oftentimes prefer a Thursday spent casually with my friends rather than a “thirsty Thursday.” For me, these nights in have allowed me to create much greater bonds within my circle of friends, which make the nights out on the weekends with those that I’ve gotten to know so well that much more fun! If “going out” isn’t necessarily your scene, the smaller side of the college spectrum might be a better alternative for you. However, it is not to say that going out at small schools can’t be just as fun as a big school. It’s both a matter of personal preference and mentality.
The negative perception that a smaller school's night life is underwhelming is one that perturbs me greatly. While I cannot deny that they are undeniably much less intense than that of larger schools, I’ve come to enjoy my nights out at my rather small university even more so in comparison to that spent visiting another one much larger. Perhaps it’s that I’m a big fan of simplicity, which allows me to enjoy the intimate setting of a smaller scale gathering. At the end of the day, your college decision all comes down to personal preference, but don't write off the smaller colleges presented to you simply out of premonitions generated by negative comments. Much of your experience in college, specifically in terms of your social life, is in your own hands. It’s easy to admire or envy the social atmospheres of larger than life colleges, but there is no shame in realizing that lifestyle simply doesn't suit you. Don’t be afraid to embrace your small school lifestyle, even if it is more low-key than your friends’ large party schools. It is quite possible to make the most of these four years for yourself, regardless of the atmosphere.
