Feeling cozy in class? You’re not alone! Most engineering majors are exploding while undergrad enrollment in general cools off. Check it out…
What Does It Mean for You?
Small, intimate engineering classes are becoming harder to find, and larger lecture halls are becoming the norm. The reality is that universities can get stretched a little thin as they grow to provide for more students than they’ve ever had before. But it’s not all gloomy…. Sometimes it is the more the merrier!
The Pros of Larger Engineering Classes
- More classes to choose from when scheduling.
- More opportunities for extracurriculars, such as design and entrepreneurship competitions.
- Higher probability of admission than with smaller classes.
- More opportunities to find the perfect friends!
The Neutrals of Larger Engineering Classes
- More part-time and new professors to teach classes (can be good or bad, depending on how passionate and effective they are at teaching).
- More engineering-only buildings, events, and even dorms. This is great if that’s your thing, but you’ll have to be intentional to meet students from other majors.
The Cons of Larger Engineering Classes
- Less professor and TA time (and resources) per student. This can really have an impact on students with learning disabilities.
- More competition for scholarships, research opportunities, grad school admissions, design competitions, and future jobs.
- It can feel like you’re swimming in a sea of anonymity some days.
How do you feel about growing class sizes? Or have you even noticed? Tell us about your experience.
You got this!
