I began my undergraduate studies at a small private liberal arts college. When for a variety of reasons I decided during sophomore year that I wanted to transfer to a public university, I was sad that I would no longer be experiencing a liberal arts education. Then I discovered the little gem that is the public liberal arts college. As, I prepare to graduate, I realize that the best decision I could have made was to transfer to a public liberal arts school. Here are my top five reasons why I love being a student at a liberal arts school:
1. Small classes, small campus, small everything
Liberal arts schools are typically smaller than research universities and this has many benefits. A smaller school means smaller class sizes and more opportunities for interaction with professors and other students. It also means its much harder to get lost on campus because academic buildings are not blocks apart from one another. It is also easy to quickly move from building to building. And, you can typically find parking on campus or nearby.
2. Community
Along those same lines, a small campus allows for community among students. For example, I'm a psychology major and for the past year and a half I have taken research classes with the same group of students. I have several of these students in other courses as well. Being a student at a small school means that rather than being lost in a lecture pit, I can develop meaningful relationships with other students.
3. Professors
Being a student at a small liberal arts school also means that I've gotten to take multiple classes with the same professors throughout my time as an undergraduate. Professors really take the opportunity to get to know students on a personal level rather than treating them as a number. I also know that I can easily book appointments with my professors, sometimes even for that same day. And there's a good chance that a professor will be available during office hours without being flooded with students.
4. Accountability
Having professors who know you personally also means a high level of accountability. I have professors who know when I'm not putting forth my best work and encourage me to work harder. While some students may not appreciate this, future employers won't always take the time to encourage you to work hard. Accepting criticism and being accountable are important skills that can be used long after graduation.
5. Variety
Being a student at a liberal arts college means that I'm required to take courses from a wide variety of disciplines. I've taken classes in music, art history, English, and communication, not to mention other courses I've taken for fun. I've also had the opportunity to participate in activities such as orchestra. The liberal arts experience means getting a small taste of everything before deciding on a career.
For students looking for a personalized college experience, a liberal arts school is the way to go. I feel that the past four years have really prepared me for whatever path I should choose. I have learned not only academics, but how to interact with others and contribute to society all because of a liberal arts education.
