Pros and Cons of State Colleges in Indiana?

Hey everyone, I'm considering state colleges in Indiana for my college applications. What are some pros and cons of attending those schools? Specific experiences or general opinions are welcome!

Pros:

1) Affordability: As an in-state student, tuition at Indiana's state colleges is typically lower compared to private or out-of-state institutions. This can be especially beneficial if you're looking to graduate with minimal student loans or manageable debt.

2) Educational Variety: Indiana state colleges and universities typically offer a wide range of majors and programs, catering to diverse academic interests. Large universities, such as Indiana University Bloomington and Purdue University, are particularly known for the breadth of their offerings.

3) Campus Life: State colleges in Indiana often have a vibrant campus life with various clubs, activities, and sports teams. This can make it easy to explore new interests and build a strong social network.

4) Large Alumni Networks: Indiana's public universities have large alumni networks, which can be an advantage when looking for internships, job opportunities, and networking.

5) Research Opportunities: Some Indiana state colleges, such as Purdue and Indiana University Bloomington, are renowned research institutions. This can provide undergraduate students access to advanced research facilities, resources, and opportunities for hands-on experience in their respective fields.

Cons:

1) Class Size: State colleges tend to have larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. This can make it challenging to build strong relationships with professors and receive individualized attention.

2) Competitive Majors: Certain popular or competitive majors, such as engineering at Purdue University, may have limited capacity and more stringent entrance requirements. This can make it more difficult to get into your desired program.

3) Limited Resources: Although Indiana state colleges offer many resources, these can sometimes be stretched thin due to the large number of students attending. This may result in limited availability for tutoring, financial aid, or course enrollment.

4) Less Personalized Experience: Due to the size and scale of some state colleges, it can be harder to form close relationships with peers and professors compared to smaller schools where interactions may be more intimate and personalized.

5) Location: While Indiana has beautiful areas, some students may prefer a metropolitan setting, or geographical diversity. State colleges in Indiana are often in college towns or rural areas, so consider whether that environment meets your preferences and long-term goals.