Will I get lost at the big state school?

I really like the pharmaceutical program at the University of Minnesota, but I'm worried that the college is just too big. I am fairly social and want to meet people at school, but I don't want to be lost in the crowd. I also am not that big into the 'party' scene, which I know is big there and at other state schools. Keri from Minnesota

This is a very valid question that thousands of students have asked before. State universities often have top-notch programs and a price tag that is significantly less than private alternatives. At the same time, you will encounter an enormous student population (for example, U of Minn has 51,000 students), large class sizes, less accessible teachers, and more 'red tape' to get through. So how do you decide if the 'big state school' is right for you? Here are some guidelines and general advice from all of us at Superior Test Prep.

1. Visit and talk to current students

This is a must! Walk around the school on a typical class day. Get a feel for what life is like for the typical student. But don't be too shy! If a student doesn't look too busy, ask him or her what life is like there, most will be more than happy to help. Chances are you will find someone who was also worried about the school being too big. If you are really brave, you could even walk into a big lecture hall and see a college class in action! Now go do the exact same thing at a smaller school. See what feels right!

2. Remember Big School = more resources, clubs, groups, etc.

Big schools give you plenty of opportunities to find smaller groups. You will only get lost in the crowd if you do not take advantage of this. For example, most state colleges offer special dorms for certain majors, interest groups, or lifestyles. This will put you with a group of like-minded people right from day 1. Personally, I was part of a 6,000 person greek (frat / sorority) system at a 45,000 person university. I was part of a small community as well as a big one. If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone and get involved you will find a group that fits you.

3. Sometimes Bigger is Better

Some advantages a small school may not offer: Lots of school spirit / A good sports scene. Diverse student populations. More class/ major choices. Hundreds of ways to get involved in the student community. Large alumni networks.

4. Sometimes Bigger is NOT Better

You will undoubtedly encounter larger class sizes and less accessible professors. First of all, not every class at a big state school will be in a huge lecture hall. You will still have small classes, but expect to share your core classes (psychology 101, microeconomics, biology, etc...) with at least 100 other students. If that just does not work for you, you probably want a smaller, more personable college. As for contacting professors at a big school, that is on you. Every professor has office hours. If you attend regularly, you can forge a relationship with the professor of a 350 person lecture. Alternatively, at a small college you probably will simply have to walk up after class to talk to the professor. You cannot deny that a small college offers a more personable education.

5. The Party Issue

Just about every college has some kind of party scene, but it is pushed a bit more in large state schools. If you have a moral objection to partying and drinking, you may want to stay away from these places. But if you just choose not to participate in it, don't worry about it! Yes there is a bit of peer pressure, but you will find plenty of people who share your views. Ask students where the more laid back dorms are located. Maybe even choose to live in a dry dorm or a dorm with extended quiet hours. Even the biggest 'party school' offers plenty of popular activities that do not involve drinking or partying.

The verdict: Big state schools offer a different college experience than smaller private colleges. While you will never meet most of your classmates, you will have plenty of chances to join smaller organizations. You probably will not find yourself having coffee and stimulating conversation with a state school professor, but it is certainly possible if you work to forge the relationship. A big state school can work for anyone if you have some confidence and are willing to be somewhat outgoing. And most importantly -Visit and talk to as many students as possible!!!!!!!!!!!! Don't be shy, this is a big choice.