Don’t get me wrong going to a smaller school is great in all, but is there such a thing as too small? Does everyone really have to know everyone? This is what it’s like where I go to school. It’s a relatively small campus, where you pretty much recognize everyone. I love this, I really do. However, sometimes I feel nostalgic that I missed out on the true essence of the college experience.
Recently, I attended a NCAA football game at a large institution that is known around the country for its reputation in the sports realm. Whenever I attend these games I feel a sense of community. Even though the campus is so massive, sporting events like these bring the student body together. The dome has such an intense vibe. Happy college students everywhere, football games mean so much more. Whereas, at my small school, football games are much less exciting. In fact, many high school football games are more spirited than those at my institution.
Nonetheless, I would in no means change the decision I made to attend a smaller school. Education to me is the main priority. I also was very limited in my choices, due to the selective major that I had chosen. Being at a small school as so many perks. Between small class sizes, hands-on learning opportunities and the strong sense of community, I love the essence of the niche I have built. I think in terms of educational endeavors, I made the right choice. One that will benefit me in the long run. I’m glad I put my education first.
However, looking back I wish I would have considered the brunt of my decision in the social realm. Small is small. And I’m the type of person that likes diversity. I liked being in large settings, it makes me feel alive. This is something that I am unable to readily experience within my small school. I can’t enjoy the anonymity of a big college. There are days I feel like I just want to break away. Away from the same faces, the same buildings. The social aspect of a smaller school is eye-opening. And no it may not have been my first choice, but through the experience, I have learned to embrace it. I cherish the opportunities it has given me to broaden my horizons. I am so thankful for all the wonderful people I have meet. But there will always be some part of my that wonders how different my life would be if I had attended a bigger school. One with an innumerous amount of students, a huge campus, and a statewide known sports team.
I may never know the latter of this, and that’s okay. I am perfectly content with the niche I have created. I truly wouldn’t change a thing. I have the rest of my life to experience the world, to dive into its vastness. For now, I need to cherish the opportunity I have at college. To take time and delve into the positives of a smaller university. This is the time to live life to the fullest. I have every intent of doing so. I may not have a professional well-known sports team, but I am immersed in a community. I am in a position to thrive now and in the future and that right there is all the incentive in the world to love life in a smaller school.
