What College is a Good Fit for Me?

Should I apply to a small liberal arts college or a large university?

Deciding between a small liberal arts college and a large university is a personal choice and largely depends on what you're looking for in your college experience. Here are some points to consider for each option:

Small Liberal Arts Colleges:

- Class Size and Interaction: Typically offer smaller class sizes, which can mean more personalized attention from professors and greater participation in discussions.

- Community Feel: Often have a close-knit community where it's easier to get to know fellow students and faculty.

- Broad Education: Emphasize a well-rounded education with a focus on developing critical thinking and communication skills across various disciplines.

- Opportunities for Involvement: With fewer students, it might be easier to get involved in leadership roles or participate in extracurricular activities.

Large Universities:

- Diverse Programs: Offer a wide range of majors and programs, including specialized fields, which can be advantageous if you have specific career goals in mind.

- Research Opportunities: Often have more resources for research and larger facilities, which can be beneficial if you're interested in pursuing projects or working with renowned faculty.

- Variety of Activities: Provide a broad spectrum of clubs, sports, and events due to their size, offering something for virtually every interest.

- Anonymity and Independence: Larger schools can offer more anonymity, which some students prefer, along with the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds.

There is a misconception about liberal arts colleges. Many feel that they aren’t as well known as large universities and, therefore, can make it more difficult for a student to find employment after graduation.  This is a valid point. However, many liberal arts graduates become extremely successful in their careers.  Look at Steve Jobs who attended Reed College.  The liberal arts college world is a small one and graduates often find ways to give back to their institution by either mentoring current students or actively seeking candidates who have a liberal arts college listed on their resume.  In addition, if a student plans on applying to graduate school, there is no advantage in attending either.  Graduate programs look at gpa, test scores, experience and recommendation letters (attending a liberal arts college may allow you to build a strong rapport with a faculty mentor who may be the right person to write that recommendation letter).  

Really, it should come down to what type of experience a student is looking for. Think about your learning style, the kind of community you thrive in, and what experiences you want from college. Visiting campuses or talking to current students can also provide valuable insight. Is there one aspect that particularly draws you to either type of institution?