It's the Only Way to Go! Megan L. DiGregorio

Ever since middle school, I have envisioned my college experience on a small, New England campus, with an abundance of trees, grand Gothic architecture, and intimate classes allowing for a constant dialogue. However, as I began my college search in high school, those New England schools were upwards of 1500 miles away, and dreams of a Boston liberal arts school faded. Continuing my search, I focused on finding that same environment between the coasts: somewhere small, with strong liberal arts and humanities and a thriving arts environment. And I began to find that these schools aren't always near major cities, but can often be found neighboring small cities and towns in the Middle United States. The feeling of community, the gorgeous environment, and the opportunities impossible at larger schools all create the ideal setting for advancing one's education.

One of the most valuable assets in a rural school is the close-knit friendships and security fostered by a feeling of community. It's something lacking in most large, comprehensive universities comprised of tens of thousands of students, more than half of whom typically commute and enroll less than part-time. Smaller schools prevent settling into only one group to...