Attending a Large University: Pros and Cons

I'm a junior and I've been considering some of the largest unis out there like Penn State and Ohio State. I think it might be cool to be at a place with so many people but on the flip side, I’m afraid I might get lost in the crowd. Any experiences, advice, or insights to share?

Absolutely, let's break this down. When it comes to attending a large university, there are several pros and cons to consider.

Firstly, let's talk about the benefits. With greater student populations generally comes a greater variety of course offerings and major options. A large university like Penn State or Ohio State will likely have an extensive course catalog that allows you to take classes in a wide range of fields. Additionally, larger universities often have bigger budgets which can translate into more research opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and extensive libraries.

Large universities also tend to have a diverse student body, providing opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This diverse environment can give you a richer perspective and helpful insights, not just academically but also personally. There's also a lively social scene at large universities, with plenty of clubs, organizations, and events to get involved with.

Furthermore, large universities, particularly those like Ohio State and Penn State, are known for their athletic programs. If you're interested in participating in or supporting college sports, this could be a significant benefit.

Now, onto some potential downsides. Class size is often a concern in larger universities, especially General Education courses or popular classes which may have hundreds of students. This could affect the amount of personal academic attention you receive. However, keep in mind that as you progress into more specialized courses, class sizes generally become much smaller.

Some students find it hard to stand out in larger universities due to the sheer number of students. It may take more effort to catch the attention of professors and secure opportunities like internships or research positions. However, with the right approach and networking efforts, this is something that can be addressed.

Finally, a large university can feel overwhelming and make it difficult for some students to establish a sense of belonging. It's crucial to find ways to make it feel more manageable, such as joining clubs or finding communities based on shared interests.

In sum, it's a balance of opportunities and challenges. Your experience will largely depend on how you approach and navigate these aspects. It might be worth reaching out to current students or alumni to get a sense of their experiences and any advice they might have.