![This New Smyrna Beach rental home, occupied by ASL teacher Kiara Campbell's friend, experienced flooding that overflowed the lake. "Usually her husband and kids can go on the outside of this [fence] and fish in that in that little pond and it almost hit where her pergola is," Campbell said. (Courtesy Kiara Campbell)](https://www.wjpitch.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/1000009847-1200x900.jpg)
Where to attend college is one of the most challenging decisions a student can make. Many have also questioned whether to apply to or attend a private or public college. Many students make assumptions about whether or not a college is good based on whether or not it is private. So what defines whether a college is public or private?
Public colleges are government-funded while, on the other hand, private colleges rely on higher tuition. To reconcile this they may offer more generous financial aid due to it being so costly. However, the cost of the college/university does not necessarily determine its worth. Not only are public colleges more cost-efficient, but many additionally offer a more varied list of programs and opportunities for broader public interest. Private colleges tend to focus on more specialized programs in certain areas that are less widely available and general in their education. There are pros and cons to both colleges, but people tend to not take public colleges as seriously nor look at them as highly because they are not usually as selective as private colleges.
Public colleges, in addition to charging a lower tuition fee, are also usually larger than private colleges and offer more resources including more scholarship offers, in some cases better dorms and food, a variety of amenities and more. Students that come from the state the college is located in, due to in-state tuition, also get a lower tuition fee. Although lower fees are essential, it is not only about the cost. Public colleges focus on fields relevant to the state’s social and economic needs. This makes them ideal for students who want to pursue higher education but also want to save money.
Although private colleges charge more, they offer more opportunities for aid and scholarships and offer more in-depth opportunities in different fields of study. They may offer specialized programs in certain medical branches, political majors and more. Due to the smaller class sizes, professors are able to form better connections with their students, which in turn helps students who need assistance. This type of college is ideal for students who want to specialize early or work better in a less crowded environment.
When choosing a college it is important to consider all the factors that decide whether a school is the best fit for you. This can take the form of considering whether or not it is a public or private establishment. Considering factors such as cost, location, programs and many more are essential in making these decisions but other factors such as class sizes and whether or not learning is easier in a smaller environment, how specialized the field of study being considered is, as well as the cost also need to be taken into account.
Overall, public and private colleges both have many advantages and it is important to consider both before making assumptions due to the title or reputation of certain schools.
