Carefully consider a college’s size when applying
August 15, 2012
Colleges come in all shapes and sizes. From the sprawling campuses of New York City's lower Manhattan to the acres of tiny colleges scattered through rural New England and small town Midwest. Despite the number of buildings or proliferation of dorms, these colleges can range from anywhere between 500 undergraduates to 50,000. But don't feel polarized between minute Bennington and giant Arizona State - the range of college populations is much greater than that.
What does a college's population matter when it comes down to it though? Academically, some students might find the smaller class sizes and emphasis on seminar-style teaching at low population schools more comfortable. Others may want lecture halls and the structure of standardized exams.
Socially, college size makes a very significant difference. Where smaller schools can offer you a tightly knit community, it also puts you at risk for a claustrophobic bubble-like atmosphere. Others may find themselves uncomfortable being a small fish in a big pond at a large school, or enjoying the anonymity and variety of different people, not unlike the benefits of a city. Considering that colleges of all sizes offer scholarship opportunities, be sure to apply as soon as you've made up your mind.
