Choosing the right college is not just about academics. It’s about the life you'll live outside the classroom. College life is a dramatic shift from high school and can hugely impact your overall experience and ultimate success.
The life you'll live outside the classroom — the world of student activities, social gatherings, community engagement, and personal development — is just as crucial as your chosen field of study.
Are you ready to swap your high school backpack for a college one but wondering what's in store? College life is a mixed bag of experiences — from late-night Taco Bell runs and early-morning lectures to clubs that spark your interest and lifelong friendships.
These things add color to your college years and can impact how much you love (or don’t love) the experience. We're here to help you determine what student life should look like when choosing a college. Now, let's dive in!
What is student life in college?
Student life in college? Think of it as a vibrant mosaic, every piece representing different experiences and opportunities. At its core, it's about what you do outside the classroom. It's your residence hall, aka your new home base, where you'll pull all-nighters for exams and host impromptu pizza parties. We'll dive into the nitty-gritty of housing later, so stay tuned.
Then there's the social scene. Clubs, sports events, campus activities — they're all part of the package. Whether you're into politics, theater, or literature, there's probably a club for that. And if not, you can start one!
But college isn't just fun and games. It's also about personal growth and, yes, academics. You'll learn to juggle responsibilities, explore your identity, and gain crucial life skills. You'll be hitting the books and attending lectures, taking steps toward your future career. We'll unpack all of these elements, so stick with us as we navigate this colorful world of college life together.
Why does student life matter when choosing the best school?
Think of student life as the heartbeat of your college experience. It brings the campus to life and transforms your college years from purely academic to a vibrant, memorable journey.
As a new student, stepping into campus life can feel like stepping into a whole new world. But it's this world that will help you grow your social skills, nurture your mental health, and even propel your academic success.
The networks you form, the clubs you join, and the events you participate in all shape your college narrative. These experiences often stick with you long after you've handed in your final exam.
Thinking about what you want from student life is essential when choosing the best school for you. Are you excited about rooting for a Division I sports team? Or maybe you're looking forward to leading a student-run club? Perhaps you're all about those small, intimate poetry readings or lively weekend music festivals. Whatever sparks your interest, that's what you should look for in your college choice.
Aspects of student life to consider
Here are some aspects of student life to consider.
Housing
Where you lay your head at night plays a huge role in your overall college experience. Known as "residence life," living on a college campus in residence halls, or dorms as they're often called, is like living in a mini-society.
But not all dorms are created equal. Some are modern, with suite-style rooms, while others are more traditional, with shared bathrooms and communal spaces. The cost can also vary significantly from one campus to another.
Take a hard look at what each college's residence life offers when deciding where to call home for the next four years. Do various housing options cater to different budgets and lifestyle preferences? What’s the community vibe like? Do they have themed floors or living-learning communities that align with your interests? All these factors can shape your comfort, convenience, and social connections.
Class sizes
Ever tried asking a question in a room with hundreds of other students? Not always easy. This is where class sizes come into play. The number of students in your classes can seriously impact your college experience.
Smaller classes often mean more individual attention from your professors, more chances to participate, and a cozy, community feel. They're great for deep discussions and getting to know your classmates on a first-name basis.
On the flip side, larger classes offer their own perks. They can expose you to a wide range of perspectives, give you a chance to learn from industry-leading professors, and can be a bit less intimidating if public speaking isn't your thing. When choosing a college, consider what kind of learning environment suits you best. Do you thrive in intimate settings, or do you prefer the buzz of a big lecture hall?
Food options
Believe it or not, the dining hall is more than just a place to grab a quick bite between classes. It's where impromptu study groups form, where friendships solidify over shared meals, and honestly, it's a pretty big part of your daily routine.
Don't underestimate the power of good food options when choosing your college. Does the dining hall offer a variety of meals to keep your palate happy? Does it offer options for special dietary needs, like vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free choices? What about the hours of operation — can you snag a midnight snack during finals week?
And let's not forget the social atmosphere. Is the dining hall a welcoming place where you can unwind with friends, or does it feel more like a busy high school cafeteria? Food is fuel, and you'll need plenty of it to power through those late-night study sessions.
Safety
Safety is a big deal. College is your home away from home, and it should feel like a safe space where you can focus on learning, growing, and just being you. When choosing a college, it's important to look at each school’s commitment to safety, including physical and mental health.
Does the campus have robust security measures in place? Are there support services for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to all aspects of college life? What about mental health resources? College can be stressful, and having readily available mental health support can be a game changer.
Distance from home
As a college student, distance from home can be a major factor when deciding where to attend. This is especially important during your first year or if you plan on living at home and commuting to a community college or other nearby campus.
Maybe you love the idea of stepping out of your comfort zone and want a school that's a plane ride away. Or maybe the thought of being too far from your family’s home-cooked meals and your childhood pet makes you anxious.
Either way, it's something to mull over. Consider how often you plan to visit home — are you OK with only seeing your family on holidays, or do you want the option to drop by for a weekend visit? Also, think about the cost and time of travel.
Professors and college staff
When it comes to your college experience, professors and college staff are a big deal. They're not just the people who grade your papers — they're your mentors, your guides, and sometimes, they're even the ones who inspire you to pursue a major you'd never considered.
If you have a particular major in mind, it's important to research the faculty in that department. Do they have experience in the field? Are they conducting groundbreaking research? Do they have a reputation for being approachable and supportive? And let's not forget about the college staff. They can make everything from registration to academic support much smoother.
Fitness facilities
Keeping your body active is just as important as keeping your brain active. That's where fitness facilities come in. They can play a big role in your overall wellness and stress management.
Let's be real: Having a state-of-the-art gym right on campus is a big plus. But it's not just about the equipment. You'll also want to check out the variety of fitness classes, availability of personal trainers, and wellness programs that promote a healthy lifestyle.
College life can be intense, and maintaining your physical health can help you stay on top of your game. Plus, exercising can be a great way to blow off steam, clear your head, or just take a break from studying.
Sports & sports facilities
Whether you're a budding athlete or more of a super fan, the athletics scene can shape your college experience. If you plan on playing a sport, you'll want to check out the school's teams, records, and training facilities. And even if you're not going varsity, many schools offer intramural sports as a fun and less intense way to get your game on.
And let's not forget about the fans! The energy at a college sporting event can be electric, and cheering on your school with friends can create some of your favorite college memories.
Campus size
Campus size can change the vibe of your college experience. Dreaming of a small, tight-knit community where everyone knows your name? A smaller campus might be your jam. Want a ton of student services, a wide range of student activities, and the hustle and bustle of a city within a city? A larger campus might be more up your alley.
And if you're an international student, larger campuses often have more resources to help you adjust to your new home. But remember, size isn't everything. Just because a campus is large doesn't mean it can't feel close-knit, and smaller campuses can still offer many activities and services. It's all about what makes you feel comfortable and supports your goals.
Fraternities and sororities
You've probably heard about Greek life in college — the fraternities and sororities that can become a big part of your social scene. For some, Greek life is a major perk. It can offer a built-in social network, leadership opportunities, and a sense of community.
However, it's not everyone's cup of tea. Some folks prefer a more diverse social scene or have heard some negative stereotypes about Greek life and want to steer clear. And that's cool! College is all about finding your people, whether in a fraternity, a sorority, or an anime club. The key is to think about what you want from your social life.
Special interest clubs
Special interest clubs are like the secret sauce of college life. They're where you can meet new friends who share your passions, explore interests outside of class, and maybe even shake things up in the student government association.
Whether you're into chess, salsa dancing, environmental activism, or Quidditch (yes, that's a thing), there's probably a club for that. And if not, most colleges will let you start your own! Being part of a club enriches your college experience and gives you leadership skills, networking opportunities, and extra lines for your resume.
Campus location
Freshman year is a wild ride; where you spend it can make a huge difference. Do you dream of studying in a high-rise overlooking a city that never sleeps, or does the idea of a tranquil, leafy campus where the tallest building might be the library appeal more?
This is about more than just aesthetics. Your campus's location — whether it's urban, suburban, or rural — can influence everything from the internships you land to the weekend adventures you embark on.
If you're a city slicker, you might love having a wealth of museums, restaurants, and concert venues at your doorstep. But if you're more into nature and open spaces, a rural or suburban campus might be your paradise. When researching colleges, look at a map of the campus and the surrounding area. Your college experience will extend beyond the school’s boundaries.
Your comfort on campus
You could find a college that checks all your boxes — perfect class sizes, top-tier dining hall, rad fitness facilities — but none of that matters if you step on campus and it just doesn't feel right. You've got to picture yourself living there, studying in the library at 2 a.m., or just chilling on the quad.
It's about the vibes, the energy of the place, and how the student affairs department cultivates a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. Because your well-being, both mental and physical, is the real MVP here.
Trust your gut when touring campuses or scrolling through virtual tours. Does it feel like a place where you could thrive, grow, and — most importantly — feel at home? If yes, that's a college worth considering. If not, well, there's plenty more out there.
Cost of attendance
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: cost. Tuition, room and board, books, personal expenses — they all add up quickly. But don't let the price tag scare you off just yet.
Many colleges offer various student support services and financial aid options, from scholarships and grants to work-study programs.
Research each school’s financial aid packages, average student debt, income-share agreements, and any other creative ways to help you cover attendance costs. Remember, investing in your future without bankrupting your present is the goal.
Easily compare your top college choices with College Rover
There you have it. We’ve covered the ins and outs of student life and how it can shape your college experience. You might be thinking, "That's a lot to consider! How do I even start comparing colleges?" Enter College Rover, your trusty sidekick in this college quest.
College Rover is like the superhero of college choices, swooping in to help you explore schools, programs, and all those student life aspects we’ve discussed. It gathers the info, breaks it down, and makes it easy to compare and contrast. And just like any good ally, College Rover is all about you. It's designed to help you find the college that’s your perfect match.
Start exploring with College Rover today, and remember, you've got this!
