Rural Campuses

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The Great Outdoors at Your Child's Doorstep

Rural colleges, usually near wilderness areas, have educational opportunities related to science and nature—not to mention fun outdoor activities.

Hands-On Environmental Studies

Going to a school with access to outdoor facilities gives your child a chance for hands-on learning, such as at a working dairy farm or national park.

A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Sports or hobbies such as skiing, rock climbing, fishing, or white water rafting may be short trips from the campus or even on campus. Of course, activities are local to the area. Your child shouldn't go to school in Vermont to play beach volleyball.

A Way Off Campus

Although the campus is usually the focal point for rural colleges, your child will need transportation to make the most of the area. Don't worry if he doesn't have a car or a friend who has one. Most rural schools or towns provide free or cheap transportation for college students. Your child should ask about it when visiting the campus.

A Sense of Community

Many rural colleges are self-contained. For example, they hold most of their school activities on campus, and organizations and clubs are usually a large part of student life. Plus, most rural schools are residential, with the majority of students living on campus. This self-containment creates a sense of community among students, more so than at suburban or city schools.

A Connection With the Town

Even though rural colleges have their own things going on, they often have a rich relationship with the surrounding community, too. For example, the town is usually the home for many professors, and residents often show support for the college at sport events, lectures, or plays.

A Secure Environment

Smaller towns or less populated areas are known as places where people may leave their cars unlocked or their front doors open. Although crime can happen anywhere, your child may feel safer at a rural college compared to a city school. Be sure to inquire about crime and safety on your campus visit.

No Pizza Delivery at 3 a.m.?

Rural colleges can be off the beaten track. Your child may not be able to get anything he wants anytime he wants it. If your child is from the city, this may be a hard concept to grasp. Students compensate for this by keeping a large supply of items—stocking up during the holidays and breaks. Of course, if word of your child's Twinkie supply gets out, the whole dorm may flock to his room.