If you're undecided between a big school vs. a small school, let our students who started at a big school tell you why they switched to a small school.
Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming—especially when you're weighing the energy and size of a large university against the close-knit community of a small college. At Roanoke College, we’ve welcomed many students who started at big schools and realized something was missing. What they found here was exactly what they were looking for: a place where they could be known, supported and truly thrive.
One of the biggest differences? Class size. At Roanoke, students aren’t just another face in a massive lecture hall. Our average class size is just 18 students, which means more conversations, more engagement and more opportunities to be heard. You’ll never struggle to get time with your professor—we design our classrooms for interaction, not anonymity.
Beyond the classroom, our professors are mentors who genuinely care. They’ll know your name, your goals, and how to challenge you in the best possible ways. Whether it’s grabbing coffee to talk through a research idea or helping you find an internship that matches your passions, the one-on-one attention you get here is unmatched.
Our students who transferred from larger universities often say they didn’t realize what they were missing until they experienced life at Roanoke College. Here, you don’t have to navigate college on your own. You’re part of a community that supports your ambitions, encourages your growth and celebrates your success.
If you’re unsure what kind of college is the right fit, let our students' stories guide you. Sometimes smaller really is better—and at Roanoke, it just might be the place where you find your voice and your path forward.
