<p>I am applying to schools with good writing/english programs and I was thinking about Oberlin. Everything about the school sounds great so far, but I do have one concern. I was wondering how small the school really feels? The other schools I'm applying to are MUCH bigger (uwisconsin, uiowa, ut-austin, wash u and emory a little smaller) , but I'm not opposed to a smaller school. I just don't want to be at a super small school in the middle of a tiny town (not applying to Kenyon for that reason). </p>
<p>So my question is how small does Oberlin really feel? Is there a substantial amount of stuff to do around campus in town? </p>
<p>Should be visiting sometime this year. Unfortunately, not before I apply, but well before I make my final decision. Thanks!</p>
<p>Only you can figure out what sort of school fits you. But it’s safe to say that most students love Oberlin for exactly what it is–we all chose to be here rather than at a large university, for lots of different reasons.</p>
<p>That actually helped a whole lot. Thanks! So it appears there is definitely stuff to do around campus, though the town itself is on the smaller side. And there is always cleveland nearby</p>
<p>Oberlin will definitely have a different feel than a big public school in a city. I think the smaller number of students means that you end up seeing the same people more often and the community is probably stronger because of that.<br>
Oberlin the town has many different opportunities if you look for them. However, coming from a city, it definitely has a small-town feel based on how it pretty much just has the one main street and residential areas. In terms of going out and doing things, the town does not have much, but again campus does have many offerings if you’re worried about being bored. Oberlin is lucky because it has so many attractions that are linked to big cities (like concerts, film showings, etc.), with the benefit that they’re all right there by your door and much cheaper, as well as lots of student performances which are well supported. (One thing to note - not as much of a sport culture like some other schools). I guess the up and downside is that you’re doing all of this with fellow students - great for community bonding, but at times, rather a bubble and repetitive. Also in terms of getting involved with different organizations, Oberlin really has lots to offer for side activities. Also worth noting is that students truthfully don’t make it into Cleveland that often, partially because there’s so much stuff going on on campus or you’re too busy doing work and partially because it’s a hassle to get there.</p>
<p>While most of the schools i’m applying to are bigger and in big cities, I have to say the closer-knit community of oberlin does appeal…I also like that so much does go on directly on campus - I doubt I’ll get bored. Thanks!</p>
<p>@ChesterBelly - Oberlin’s larger-than-your-average small LAC campus and student body is nice. You’re never too far away from anything on campus or in town (which is lovely! This means that you can walk or bike to practically anything you would need), and in your strolls/bike rides about campus/town, you’re bound to see at least one face you do know and one face you don’t know. There is always someone new to meet.</p>
<p>I also found that culturally, Oberlin supplied far more offerings than schools in larger cities, and there are numerous opportunities to volunteer in the greater Oberlin and Lorain County communities (which I highly recommend; it gets you out of the bubble and injects your life with some age diversity… being in college anywhere means you’re spending time with more 18-22 year olds than anything else, and it’s really nice to have older and younger people in your life still to give you some perspective).</p>
<p>Additionally, you’re guaranteed on campus housing all four years, which compared to larger school where you would possibly have to find an apartment as early as your second year, is pretty fantastic.</p>
<p>Maayanplaut, thanks for the insight! It sounds like Oberlin is definitely a good size - big enough to supply plenty of things to do without being too big. Also the fact that I can reach anything with my bike sounds great :)</p>