{"id":1148,"date":"2025-01-17T16:00:24","date_gmt":"2025-01-17T22:00:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/myredkite.com\/blog\/?p=1148"},"modified":"2025-08-06T13:43:50","modified_gmt":"2025-08-06T18:43:50","slug":"reasons-small-town-college","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/myredkite.com\/blog\/reasons-small-town-college\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Reasons to Consider a Small-Town College"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\" data-pm-slice=\"0 0 []\"><span class=\"fabric-editor-annotation\" data-mark-type=\"annotation\" data-mark-annotation-type=\"inlineComment\" data-id=\"510c69c5-ce70-458f-b0ba-9c7ec2814cab\" data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"annotation\">Besties, when I was applying to college, I thought bigger was better. I toured massive public universities like the University of Texas and the University of Alabama, and I was starting to picture myself in those giant lecture halls, surrounded by hundreds of classmates.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Then it hit me: smaller class sizes meant more time and attention from my professors. I ended up choosing a school with an average of 15 students per class, because I knew there was no risk of getting lost in a crowd.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Don\u2019t get me wrong &#8211; living in a big city and\/or attending a college with a huge student body comes with a huge amount of benefits. But there\u2019s something special about the unique advantages that small-town colleges offer.<\/p>\n<h4 data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Let\u2019s dive into eight reasons why a small-town setting might be the perfect fit for you!<\/h4>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1149 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1920\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737147625511-scaled-1-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2560px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2560\/1920;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">1. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Lower Cost of Living<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">The majority of small-town colleges are located in areas where expenses are significantly more affordable than in urban centers. From lower rent prices to cheaper groceries, the cost of day-to-day living can be much more manageable for students.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">This can make a big difference for my Kitelings relying on financial aid or juggling part-time jobs. This way, you can focus on your educational and personal goals, graduate with less student debt, and have more financial freedom for your post-college life.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Also, a lot of nearby businesses also offer student discounts, so be sure to speak up!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">(You can sign up for <a href=\"http:\/\/www.myredkite.com\" data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"link\"><strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Red Kite<\/strong><\/a> to discover scholarships, grants, and loans for your college journey! More on this in the end\u2026)<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">2. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Tight-Knit Campus Community<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">I can speak on this firsthand: small-town colleges foster close relationships between students and faculty. With smaller class sizes and a more personal atmosphere, you\u2019re more likely to make meaningful connections that last long after graduation.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Plus, a lot of small-town teachers live on campus, and there\u2019s nothing like popping over to your professor\u2019s for a cup of coffee! (If they invite you, of course\u2026)<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1150 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1632\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1-1024x653.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1-768x490.jpg 768w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1-1536x979.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dino-reichmuth-rOhxayzwwvA-unsplash-scaled-1-2048x1306.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2560px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2560\/1632;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">3. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Focus on Academics<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">And for all you smart cookies, remember that small-town colleges are an ideal setting for focusing on your studies because they provide you with a quieter environment, which means fewer distractions! Without the constant hustle and bustle of the big city, you can create a steady routine and truly immerse yourself in your academic pursuits.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Trust that libraries and study spaces are <em data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"em\">way<\/em> less crowded, giving you the perfect place to concentrate. Additionally, the reduced stress of a slower-paced environment can help you maintain better mental health. You need to stay sharp and productive throughout your college journey!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">4. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Outdoor Adventures<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Many of these small-town colleges are surrounded by natural beauty. Whether it\u2019s forest trails, rivers, mountains, or scenic parks, there\u2019s an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation! As fun as it is to take the subway to class, you might also enjoy a hike to a scenic waterfall! (Say hi to Bambi from me.)<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">My college actually offered a school-sponsored program for outdoor adventurists to pay a small fee and venture out to the mountains for hiking, biking, or swimming. One day, I hopped on one of their trips to the beach, and it was so fun and refreshing!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1151 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1696\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1-1536x1018.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ceren-ulukaya-OT3nD5M9cXk-unsplash-scaled-1-2048x1357.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2560px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2560\/1696;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">5. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">More Involved Greek Life<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">If joining a fraternity or sorority is on your college bucket list, small-town schools often offer a more close-knit experience! With fewer students, smaller chapter sizes = more meaningful opportunities for leadership and involvement.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Of course, like with most universities, Greek life plays a significant role in shaping the campus culture. These organizations frequently host events that involve the entire town, from charity fundraisers to homecoming parades. This way, their members can build connections both on and off campus\u2026 okay, networking!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">6. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Local Charm and Culture<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Think of the distinct charms of small towns, filled with local traditions, festivals, and businesses that give the area character! These communities tend to be deeply rooted in history, and many small towns celebrate their heritage through events that bring people together.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">In addition to the festivals, small towns often have unique, locally-owned businesses that provide everything from homemade treats to one-of-a-kind boutique shops. These local gems offer a chance to support the community and discover hidden treasures you wouldn&#8217;t find in a chain store. The vibes are immaculate!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1152 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1205\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1-300x141.jpg 300w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1-1024x482.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1-768x362.jpg 768w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1-1536x723.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ricardo-gomez-angel-thOIOTA6NHI-unsplash-scaled-1-2048x964.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2560px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2560\/1205;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">7. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">More Affordable Entertainment<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">One of the biggest perks of living in a small town is the variety of activities that are easy on your wallet. For example, you can research and find nearby charming local diners with affordable daily specials! (Now I\u2019m craving my favorite tiny Italian place from my college town.) There\u2019s no shortage of ways to have fun!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">In my town, the local movies theater offered $5 ticket Tuesdays, which I discovered is a pretty common promotion for small-town venues. Be sure to see if there\u2019s one of these deals near you!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"heading\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">8. <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Supportive Alumni Networks<\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">As a graduate myself, I can testify to the idea that alumni from small-town universities develop a deep sense of loyalty and connection to their alma mater. And as I mentioned before, students from more tight-knit communities tend to build lasting relationships that can extend well into their professional lives. If you choose a small-town college, you\u2019ll also find a robust alumni network that is genuinely invested in supporting current students (like you!).<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">One of the key benefits of attending a small-town college is the opportunity to tap into this network for mentorship and career guidance. Alumni feel a strong sense of duty to give back, offering their time and expertise to help other students navigate their academic and professional careers.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">At my college, there were also formal mentorship programs and networking events. The sense of camaraderie that comes with graduating from a smaller school can definitely translate into real-world opportunities. Graduates might keep an eye out for potential candidates from their alma mater when hiring for internships or full-time positions. Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal referrals help open doors for you!<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1156 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1527\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1.jpg 2560w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1-300x179.jpg 300w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1-1024x611.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1-768x458.jpg 768w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1-1536x916.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/assets.myredkite.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/imresizer-1737148145909-scaled-1-2048x1222.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 2560px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 2560\/1527;\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions you\u2019ll make in your life, and the environment you choose plays a huge role in shaping your overall experience. If any of these reasons resonate with you, it\u2019s time to start exploring what small-town colleges can offer.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Like me, you might find that the quieter, more intentional pace of life in a small town is exactly what you need to grow academically and personally. As you begin your college search, remember that finding the right financial support is key to making your dream school a reality.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">At <a href=\"http:\/\/www.myredkite.com\" data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"link\"><strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Red Kite<\/strong><\/a>, we\u2019re dedicated to helping students like you unlock access to scholarships, grants, and loans. Our platform connects you with over <strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">$25 billion<\/strong> in financial aid, streamlining the process and making it easier to find the support you need.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Whether you&#8217;re drawn to the charm of a small town or the benefits of a big city university, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.myredkite.com\" data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"link\"><strong data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"strong\">Red Kite<\/strong><\/a> is here to help you navigate the financial side of your college journey. We want you to focus on what really matters: your education and your future.<\/p>\n<p data-prosemirror-content-type=\"node\" data-prosemirror-node-name=\"paragraph\" data-prosemirror-node-block=\"true\">Sign up today! <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.myredkite.com\" data-prosemirror-content-type=\"mark\" data-prosemirror-mark-name=\"link\">www.myredkite.com<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Besties, when I was applying to college, I thought bigger was better. I toured massive public universities like the University of Texas and the University of Alabama, and I was&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":1658,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[12],"tags":[29,36,76,102],"class_list":["post-1148","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-preparing-for-college","tag-advice","tag-college","tag-jane-cooper","tag-small-town"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>8 Reasons to Consider a Small-Town College - Red Kite Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/myredkite.com\/blog\/reasons-small-town-college\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"8 Reasons to Consider a Small-Town College - Red Kite Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Besties, when I was applying to college, I thought bigger was better. 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