Why choose a research university?

want2bIvy
Tue, 30 Dec 2008 08:10:09 +0000

I always felt that I would be best suited for a LAC. Coming from a small high school, I was looking forward to small classes, ample opportunity for student/faculty discourse, and lively discussions in seminars. I ended up at a large research university–though the education is definitely adequate, I find myself very much missing those LAC elements. Because I am not planning to do research in the sciences myself, the availability of labs and working professors is useless to me. Being at this sort of school means that teachers are very much focused on their non-teaching work, their personal research. Classes are often run by grad students–or even juniors/seniors. It’s quite a disappointment and it eliminates the opportunities for individual attention. If you are looking for a relationship with your teachers, you truly have to make the time and effort. All are willing to connect with their pupils, but there is this barrier not present at the smaller schools.

I encourage you to think about your personal needs, what you are looking for in the college experience. Rather than comparing the types of schools, think about your own learning style. Once you understand what you require to enjoy learning, you should be more able to select the proper kind of institution.