Big School in Small Town or Small School in Big City?

College Search & Selection
1

<p>Besides academics, my preference is a big school in a big city. Of course, it's almost impossible to find the perfect school without some type of sacrifice. Three hypothetical schools (all of which generalize what I've seen so far):</p>

<p>School A - Location: Rural, School Size: 30,000
School B - Location: 5 miles from the City, School Size: 5,000
School C - Location: In the City, School Size: 1,000</p>

<p>The reason I prefer larger schools is because of the larger variety of electives, greater diversity, and better housing (typically).</p>

<p>In a city, I would feel a greater sense of freedom. It has always been my fantasy to live in the city. Overall, it would make my college years more enjoyable.</p>

<p>Currently, I believe School B would be optimal. Still, it doesn't give the same satisfaction as living in the city. My only concern with School C is that I'd get sick of the people (having classes with the same people, hanging out with the same group, lack of diversity, etc.). But in a big city, it shouldn't be too hard to meet new people right? Maybe not for me, considering nearly all my friends right now are school friends.</p>

<p>I'll ultimately make the decision myself. I just want to hear your thoughts or if anyone shares the same dilemna.</p>

2

<p>Depends how selective of a school you can get into. UCLA and NYU are big schools in big cities. UChicago is 7 miles from downtown. </p>

<p>Do you live in a small, medium, or big place now? Many people from small towns want to go live in the city and go to a huge school, but then feel out of place/overwhelmed. Visit, see how the school feels.</p>

3

<p>Thanks for the reply.</p>

<p>I currently live about 5 miles from the city. One of the reasons I like the city is because of the diversity. Instead of feeling out of place, I think I would actually be more comfortable in the city.</p>

<p>Most of the schools I am looking at are selective, and I have several safety schools in all three categories. I agree, nothing beats visiting the schools for first hand perspectives. Hopefully, I'll have a chance over the summer.</p>