Suburban Campuses

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If Your Child Is a Little Bit Country

Some people have a skewed impression of the suburbs, based on what they've seen on TV or in the movies. What are they—and the colleges in them—really like?

The 'Burbs

Here the term "suburb" is used loosely, to include small cities, large towns, or the residential areas near cities. Suburbs located close to cities may seem influenced by an urban atmosphere. Further out, suburbs may have a more town-like atmosphere.

The Best of Both Environments

Suburban schools usually offer a taste of the city and country nearby, since you're close to both. It's for this reason that many people are drawn to this setting. Students can usually grab a bus or pile in a car with friends for an excursion or, if they're keeping an eye to the working world, commute to a job nearby.

Community Within a Community

Suburban colleges usually have their own communities, with various activities and even their own culture. Fortunately, the collegiate and residential communities tend to complement each other—creating places to live and learn for both the town residents and students. Still, it pays to ask current students about the school's "town and gown" relationship—it's not always perfect harmony.

Mixed Bag of People

The suburbs are not as diverse as cities, but can be slightly more integrated than rural areas. This mix adds to the character of a suburban town, drawing in aspects of both urban and rural life.

A Sense of History

Most suburban neighborhoods have a story behind them. Before choosing a suburban college, your child should take the time to learn about the area's history. Who settled the town? What is its major industry? It may reveal something about the community's personality and residents.

Car or No Car? That's the Question

If your child doesn't have a car, he can still get around using public or the school's transportation, but his options may be limited. If your child has a car, the surrounding attractions (the city or country) will be more accessible. Towns and college car policies can vary, so your child should be sure to ask the students about the real deal.