University Size and its Impact

Hey there, I'm starting to look at colleges and I was wondering which university has the most students? Would attending a larger college over a smaller one impact my college experience in any significant way? Thanks!

Hello! To answer your first question, as of the current records, the University of Central Florida holds the title for having the most students, with the on-campus student population exceeding 69,000.

Now, as for the impact of attending a larger university versus a smaller one, there are certainly differences and your preference will likely depend on personal factors.

In a larger college or university, you can find a diverse range of extracurricular activities, courses, majors, and resources. The student bodies at larger institutions tend to be more diverse, and large universities often have more well-known faculty members, which can be beneficial if you're looking for research opportunities. Also, larger schools often have more robust athletic programs, and that can contribute to experiences like spirited game days.

On the flip side, the sheer size and scale of larger universities may sometimes make students feel like they're just another number. Indeed, classes, especially foundational ones, can be large, often filled with hundreds of students, which might limit the personal attention you get from professors.

In contrast, smaller colleges usually offer a more intimate environment, with the average class size being relatively small, promoting more one-on-one interaction between students and professors. You're probably more likely to feel a sense of community and camaraderie on a smaller campus. However, smaller institutions may not offer as wide a variety of coursework or majors, and their resources and extracurricular offerings may not be as extensive as those at larger schools.

As you make your decision, consider where you feel you could thrive more - in large lecture halls with the buzz of thousands of students around you or in smaller, more intimate classroom settings. Both types of institutions have their advantages — it's just about finding the right fit for you.