When high school students are trying to decide on where to continue their education following graduation, one factor they consider is whether they should attend a large, state school or a smaller, private institution. From the outside, the benefits of state schools seem obvious: the stellar, well-known academic programs, the exciting, division I football games, the raging frat parties, and, a selling point for many, the less costly, in-state tuition. With all of the perks of going to a big school, smaller, private schools are often overlooked. You've heard from the small school campus tours and pamphlets about the advantages of low student-to-staff ratios, how wonderful it is to see familiar faces around campus, and all the other perks of the private college environment. However, it is difficult to understand these benefits unless you have experienced the special connections of the private university setting first-hand.

When I chose to attend Ohio Northern University, the main reason was because of my opportunity to fulfill my life-long dream of playing collegiate softball. However, my experiences throughout my freshman year opened my eyes to the perks of attending a small school regardless of my athletic opportunity. One particular incident that made me realize that I was exactly where I was supposed to be was when I received an email my second semester from one of my professors who I had for class my first semester. I had previously spoken to this professor about my interest in possibly pursuing a career in environmental engineering or environmental law. Now, months after that conversation, this professor was emailing me to inform me about a scholarship opportunity for students interested in environmental careers. Not only had my professor remembered the conversation we had, but she thought of me when she saw the scholarship and took the time out of her day to send me the information. Needless to say, I was completely blown away by her investment in my future despite not being one of my current professors or advisers. This type of individualized attention is something that is unique to small, private institutions.

The other underrated characteristic of small schools is the personal connections you make with the students around you. At a large school, it is not uncommon for you to see someone once and then never cross paths with them again, making it difficult to make connections with people. However, at private schools, you are able to develop personal relationships with many people even if they are in a different major or involved in different activities. This environment allowed me to interact with a wide variety of people at Ohio Northern. Additionally, these connections made our sports, though they were not nationally recognized, elite programs, more enjoyable due to the fact that I knew many of the athletes I was cheering for on a personal level. Both the student and staff connections at small colleges and universities truly enhance the college experience.

If you or someone you know is currently trying to determine which type of school is the right fit, I strongly encourage you not to rule out small schools. Private institutions create an environment where students can form lifelong relationships with one another and receive individualized attention from staff who are invested in helping students find opportunities that will positively impact their education and their future careers.