By Alexandra Powell
Most colleges have a lot to offer from rigorous academics to engaging extracurriculars and interesting people. In a time in which students are bombarded by inviting pamphlets and aggressive emails, what influences a prospective student’s interest in a particular university?
While location is a factor that is highly considered by some, it is often dismissed by others. To what extent does the location of a university really matter? A suburban campus, the stereotypical college setting with characteristic patches of grass and quads has its benefits, but city campuses may have more to offer.
Without a doubt, the idea of living on a suburban campus is comforting. Typically, all first year students live on campus. Classes and dining halls are just a short walk away from bed. The bank, post office and gym are all in the same vicinity. Since everything you could possibly need is in front of you, the challenges of “adulting” are minimized.
Aside from convenience, a campus provides a sense of community. When students see others wearing similar collegiate apparel, they feel a sense of belonging and unity. But after a while, you are so immersed in the college scene that you are removed from the “real world”. Constantly being around other college students can be suffocating. On a campus, it’s hard to get away.
Students who attend schools within cities do not encounter this problem. As many of the schools within cities advertise, “the city is the campus”. And rightfully so. Sports stadiums, movie theaters and chic restaurants are just a subway stop away. Students will never be bored with endless entertainment at their fingertips.
Since city campuses are more spread out, many prospective students question whether there is a true sense of community at a city school. But arguably, as a city student, you have access to a much larger community. You have the advantage of being exposed to different ideas and the opportunity to immerse yourself in vibrant cultures. Sure, students have to reach a little further outside of their comfort zones to be involved, but maybe that’s a good thing.
