Ever wonder why people pick small schools? I mean, it has to suck seeing the same people everyday, or not being able to hide in a lecture, right? Well, it isn't as bad as you think. Here are 10 reasons why you should look into a small school.
1. Small Campus
I can roll out of bed at 8:30 am, get a coffee, and still make it to my 9:25 class with time to spare. You can be anywhere on campus in about 5 minutes. I can even be down at the barn in 10!
2. More one-on-one with teachers
Many teachers actually take the time to learn our names in class. We're not just a face in the crowd here, and it's really helpful when you need help.
3.Smaller Classes
While my gen-eds are slightly bigger, there is generally no more than 30 people in my classes. That's about the size of a high school class. My school even only has one big lecture hall its so small!
4. You get to know people better
At any school you will meet a lot of people. But in a small school, you don't just meet people and then never see them again. You will see them at least once a week, and on a bad day, seeing a familiar face and a smile helps you get through it.
5. More freedom to choose your schedules
At my school, we have a good amount of freedom in choosing our classes for the next semester. There is no set classes you have to take at certain times, and your free to choose when you want to take them, in reason of course.
6. A lot more "free" activities
I had a friend (who goes to a different school) go to the same MLB game that I did. Difference? She had to pay to go, whereas I "paid" for my seat on the bus, and then got my money back. My school has many opportunities to go to activities, and there basically nothing to go.
7. More Hands on Opportunities
Here at my school, as a freshman we are already hands on down in the barns. Small schools lend themselves to smaller classes which usually means a lot more hands on time in most majors.
8. More freedom to take classes not related to your major
A lot of people believe they cannot take any other classes besides those in your major. At smaller schools, it is a lot easier to take those classes.
9. Your adviser may end up being one of you instructors
My advisor is actually one of my instructors who I have had for 2 semesters now. Also, your advisor is generally related to your major. Animal Science majors may have teaching vets as advisors or those who were very invested in the field.
10. You feel like you matter
You really feel like the people you come in contact with and the teachers who you converse with really appreciate you being there, and want to make sure you succeed. Some instructors may go out of their way to make sure you understand material, and they are happy to have you in class.
So is going to a small school that bad? Not at all! I believe I made the right decision in going to small school, where hands-on classes are the norm, and the instructors know our names. It makes it easier not to get lost in the crowd, and be pushed to be the best student I can be.
