I knew Iowa State was the school for me after I toured it. Nationally ranked journalism program, stellar fashion curriculum, giant Greek life, it's like the university was created specifically for my needs. Except one thing: it was three times the size of my hometown.
It scared me to death. Would I find a close knit friend group? How was I suppose to stand out amongst my peers? These fears quickly became the very reason I love Iowa State, and here's why.
Transitioning from a school of 650 students to 36,000 was quite the adjustment. You have that many more nerds, jocks, bullies, and whatever other stereotype to dodge on the way to class. At least that's what I thought. One of the best things about a big university, stereotypes are non existent. No one cares if you're wearing a Snuggie on the way to your 8 am lecture or rollerblading to a chapter meeting with your roommate (guilty). You have the freedom to be whoever you want and if someone cares enough to judge you, you will most likely never see them again.
Speaking of 8 a.m. lectures, me and my eight minute attention span could barely make it through a math class with 20 people, how was I going to sit through a lecture with 300? In college, the stakes are higher. The classes you take now actually prepare you for your job. You're no longer sitting through lessons on sine and cosine (respect if you are). Those pesky general education credits were tough to get through, but you have multiple studying systems to utilize and, if you're fortunate enough, the person you sit by could become your study buddy and help you succeed in the class.
My greatest fear was not being able to find that close-knit friend group. The kind that you can borrow clothes from and go on 1 a.m. pizza runs with. In a massive sea of humans, how was I going to find the ones who would make up my bridal party? Simple: get involved. Join a Greek house, try out for the hockey team, sign up for water polo. I had to physically throw myself out of my comfort zone to get involved and I can't thank myself enough, because I have found the best group of friends. A Big Twelve university is an enormous place, but if you don't find that friend group, it seems so empty.
Big colleges aren't for everyone. They may seem intimidating or not have the right programs for you. But I can say, without any doubt, I am proud to be one of the 36,000 Cyclones and would not have it any other way.
