Opinion: Smaller CSUs Offer Support That Bigger Campuses May Lack

As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, choosing a smaller California State University was the best decision I could have made. Attending CSUSB has provided me with affordability, support, and a strong sense of community that I believe I would not have experienced if I attended a larger CSU.

My experience has shown me that smaller CSU campuses can offer students opportunities just as valuable, if not more, than those found at larger CSU campuses.

Growing up, college felt like a far-off dream; no one in my family had attended college, so I had very little knowledge about the application process or what to expect. As I approached my senior year of high school, that dream began to feel possible.

Affordability is one of the biggest advantages of attending a smaller CSU. Tuition costs can vary among all universities, and for students from low-income families like me, cost is often one of the most important factors in deciding where to attend school.

When it came time to apply, I knew I wanted to major in Liberal Arts, but I was unsure of where I should go after discussing my goals with my high school counselor. I was encouraged to consider going to a smaller CSU because of its more affordable tuition, smaller class sizes, and an easier transition from high school to college.

Compared to some larger CSU campuses, like CSU Fullerton, whose tuition is around $8,000 a semester, CSUSB offered a more affordable option for me at only around $4,000 a semester while still providing quality education. Being able to commute from home also helped reduce expenses during my first three years. I have also been granted multiple scholarships from CSUSB throughout my time here, which has also helped with costs.

Attending a smaller CSU has allowed me to build meaningful relationships with faculty and staff. At larger universities, students often are left to feel like just another number on the enrollment rates.

“I love my campus and all the staff here, but sometimes, since there are a lot of students, it's harder to get full access with the staff to build relationships; I wish it was easier,” said Sergio Ramos, a student at Cal State Long Beach.

At CSUSB, I have found it easy to connect with professors, advisors, and staff who genuinely care about student success.

Whenever I've had questions about classes, financial aid, or career opportunities, there has always been someone who is willing to help. The Peer Ambassadors for Liberal Studies office has always supported me so much over these past three years. These connections have given me confidence and excellent growth as a student.

Smaller campus populations create a stronger sense of community. Since my first day at CSUSB, I have felt welcomed and supported by people around me.

Transitioning into college can be very overwhelming, especially for first-generation students. Campuses with smaller populations like CSUSB, which has around 15,000 undergraduates a year according to the CSU website, allow students to transition more comfortably without the overwhelming feeling of a huge and heavy enrollment campus.

Larger CSUs, like CSU Long Beach, have around 36,000 undergraduates a year and can be more stressful to navigate right out of high school.

While larger universities may offer more programs, events, and resources, smaller campuses provide advantages that are often overlooked. With fewer students, it can be easier to build relationships, access support services, and participate in campus activities.

Over the past three years, I have developed valuable friendships and professional relationships that have helped me both personally and academically. These experiences have made my college journey more meaningful and rewarding.

CSUSB, along with other small CSUs, does an excellent job of keeping students informed about available resources. Throughout my time here at CSUSB, I have consistently received information about campus events, networking opportunities, scholarships, and academic support services. These resources, like the CAPS office, career center, financial literacy center, and student affairs, all offer very helpful information and services.

Looking back, choosing CSUSB was the right decision for me. I have saved money, received strong support from faculty and staff, earned scholarships, and become part of a welcoming community. Most importantly, I have grown as both a student and a person. The experiences and lessons I have gained here will stay with me long after graduation.

For students like me who are first-generation, low-income, or unsure about where to begin their college journey, a smaller CSU can be more than just a good option; it can be the right one.