How to Get the Most from a Large Public University

Many smart, hard-working students end up studying at large public universities because it is cheaper than a smaller, private education. These large universities have a lot to offer if students take their own education in hand and make sure to get the most out of the school. I am a senior at the University of Georgia, which is home to over 30,000 students. This information is based on my experience there, but it applies to many other big universities.

A big school like UGA is usually a "Research 1" university. This means that the education may not be as good as a private, liberal arts school, but the professors are paid a lot more, because they also do research. Therefore, you will have access to very educated and often well-known researchers, if you take the time to go and see them. Get to know your professors in every class. This will help you get recommendations when you are applying for a job or graduate degree, and will often open up other opportunities for you. For example, maybe you can get a chance to work with one of your professors on a research project, which will be a great learning experience and resume builder.

I have often gotten to know my professors best that teach the enormous 200 or 300 person lecture classes. Some students don't know how to approach them, but the truth is, many of these professors sit in their office during their scheduled office hours without a single student coming by. They will welcome a chance to help or advice a student interested in their field. I often approach my professors by offering my services as a class note taker. I get paid by the student disability office on campus for every student I provide notes for, so this allows me to get paid for going to class. I have also approached professors asking them about their research, or to give them an article I found that relates to their class. Sure, this is sucking up, but if you ever need a recommendation, this professor will remember you out of the hundreds that they teach each semester.