Suburban College Campuses

If You're a Little Bit Country

Some people have a skewed impression of the suburbs, based on what they've seen on television and 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. For example, both Bates College in Lewiston, Maine and Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts are in suburbs, though the areas are very different.

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. You can usually grab a bus or pile in a car with friends for an excursion or, if you'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. For example, the University of Oregon's School of Music and the city of Eugene collaborate to host the annual Oregon Bach Festival. 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. For example, at Carroll College a suburban school in Helena, Montana, you can be the sophisticated urbanite by attending a play at Grandstreet Community Theater or fulfill your cowboy inclinations by going horseback riding.

A Sense of History

Most suburban neighborhoods have a story behind them. For example, Flagler College is located in St. Augustine, America's oldest city. The college reflects the town's old-world character. Before choosing a suburban college, 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?

If you don't have a car, you can still get around using public or your school's transportation, but your options may be limited. If you have a car, the surrounding attractions (the city or country) will be more accessible. Towns and college car policies can vary, so be sure to ask the students for advice.