7 Reasons to Consider a Small-Town or Rural College
Choosing a college is a big decision, and it’s natural to think of big cities and bustling campuses first. But what if a small-town or rural college could offer you just as much, or even more, in a different way?
Smaller towns might not have the bright lights, but they bring unique experiences, close-knit communities, and affordable options that you won’t want to overlook. Here’s why you should keep small-town colleges on your radar.
They broaden your perspective
If you’re a city kid, you’ll learn what life is like in the country. It’s also easier to become involved in town activities, like volunteering at the library or tutoring at the local elementary school.
Tuition and housing may be less expensive
Enrollment at small colleges fluctuates from year to year, and many have sizeable endowments. This means they tend to give large amounts of merit money to entice students to attend. Plus, in small towns, most off-campus housing is less expensive. Think of how happy that will make your parents.
It’s easier to get to know your professors
Faculty and staff tend to live closer to campus, which creates more opportunities for you to interact with them outside the classroom or office. There may be cookouts at the president’s house and informal gatherings at professors’ houses, or you may run into them at the grocery store.
You may feel safer
While there’s no guarantee of safety these days – bad things can happen in small towns as well as big cities – you may feel safer walking around a small town and a small campus. Still, you should always use good safety practices, such as not walking alone after dark and staying with a group.
You probably won’t need a car
OK, this is a double-edged sword, because maybe you want a car (even though parking can be scarce and parking passes expensive). But in a small town, everything – from the grocery store to the laundromat – is probably within walking distance of campus.
If you patronize the local watering holes (after you’re 21, of course), you can walk home instead of driving.
There may be better-organized activities
At larger colleges, students are often left to create their own plans over the weekend, relying on the city around them for entertainment. In contrast, small colleges focus on building campus life by organizing events, activities, and clubs, making connecting and staying involved easy.
At a small-town college, you’ll find plenty of ways to make friends and try new things without leaving campus.
There’s a greater sense of community
With fewer places to go in town, students tend to do things in larger groups. Friendship groups also tend to be bigger and a bit less cliquey, especially if the college is small.
More students may stay on campus on weekends because it’s too far to drive home, which can be a growth experience. After all, you can’t always run home to escape a problem or situation.
As you build your list of potential colleges, don’t let location limit your choices. Colleges in small towns or rural areas offer an experience that’s often more affordable, more community-driven, and highly rewarding.
Wherever you decide to go, pick a place that feels like home to you, even if it’s a bit “off the beaten path.” You might find that the middle of nowhere is the perfect place to start your next adventure.
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