Harvard isn’t always the best school for everyone

When searching for prospective universities, it is important that you don’t limit your list to only large, well-known research institutions, but to also take smaller schools into consideration. While some students thrive in bigger environments, others may find it difficult to blend into such immense surroundings.

PantherNation has looked at the pros and cons of both small and big universities to help you decide which is a better fit for you.

Small

Pros:

• Most of your classmates will know who you are. You won’t have to worry about feeling invisible.
• With most class sizes being under 20 students, professors will know your name, interests, work ethics and just who you are in general. You will be able to build a more closely-knitted relationship with your educators and learn a great deal more from them.
• If you try, you will be able to stand out from your classmates. Smaller student body means less competition!
• Believe it or not, your path to elite graduate schools will be easier.

Cons:

• As many small schools often lack in funds in comparison to larger research universities, you may not have all the resources that you need and want.
• Smaller student body may mean less diversity. This may not expose you to as many perspectives and viewpoints.

Big

Pros:

• Often times, larger research universities are located in and around big cities. Living in such an environment will offer you greater diversity in terms of the people you’re surrounded by, the events you will have an opportunity to attend and more.
• You will have wider course options.
• Your university will have an abundance of resources available for you. All you’d have to do would be to ask.
• If you prefer not to be engaged in class discussions, you may simply not choose to do so. No one will notice.

Cons:

• Large universities have large lecture classes. Surprise! If you are the type of learner who loves to be engaged in class discussions, you will wither in this kind of learning environment.
• With a huge student body, you will face more intense competition.
• Often times, your professors won’t be there to teach you.

Seoyoung Lee