<p>Hey ive been reading some articles on LAC'S and just wanted everyones opinion on why they are choosing either a LAC or University. Thanks! ;)</p>
<p>It's a broad generalization, but LACs may offer a smaller, more personal environment, smaller class sizes, and closer relationships with professors. Large universities usually have a greater selection of majors and courses, more research opportunities, big-time sports (maybe), and a larger student population (which may appeal to some).</p>
<p>Note that these are generalizations, and you should read up on the details and environment of individual schools you are considering.</p>
<p>At many schools, LACs allow for more exploration than universities, b/c research opportunities at universities may be very competitive, whereas at LACs if you change your major it will be easier and less time-consuming to forge new relationships with professors who can write recommendations. Both of these are generalizations though, and often, class size and dept intimacy differs by dept even at the same school. Another thing, is that LACs (at least the best ones) tend to see their mission as "teaching students how to learn" so courses may involve more creative thinking and reading/writing, and less memorization. LACs are also more likely to have been founded under progressive causes (think Bowdoin, Swarthmore, Haverford, Smith, Carleton, etc...) whereas university faculty, whether or not they are very dedicated to teaching, see their purpose in life as expanding their field of knowledge through research.</p>
<p>I recently transferred from a LAC to a big university, and I'm much happier here. A big university can be as small as you want it to be. The amazing resources and research opportunities will keep you very busy as well.</p>