The focus of most private colleges is the student rather than research and publishing, as is common at public institutions. This student focus allows private colleges to favor professor-led lectures and labs rather than a teacher's assistant led class. Students benefit from the extra knowledge and expertise of the highly educated professor rather than a graduate student. Professor-driven classes also help reduce discrepancies between the information presented in class and the information covered on exams.
Private colleges like to publish their low class sizes as a reminder that students come first. In smaller classes, students are given more individual attention and have more ability to ask questions. Smaller classes also lends to a more interactive classroom experience.
At large universities, students are more known by their student identification number than their name. At smaller private colleges, it is easier to know your professors and other students. For exceptional students, there are more opportunities for recognition and awards than typically found at public institutions.
Many private colleges are affiliated with a religious denomination. Private institutions can offer students seeking a college with close ties to their religious faith a place to study with others of their same faith. For some students, scholarships are available based on their religious ties.
Some of the most historic and prestigious higher education facilities in the United States are private colleges. Attending one of these colleges lends name recognition to your degree that is helpful when looking for your first job. Alumni organizations at private colleges are typically active and look for ways to provide student assistance including beneficial internships.
Private colleges are known for having a strong base of traditions that are passed down as a rite to each new batch of students. These traditions create a sense of community through strong bonds amongst students and between students and alumni. These bonds can provide lifelong friendships.
Private institutions create a more conducive environment for learning and are less likely to have the distractions of nightly parties, large athletic events and demanding sorority and fraternity life. With fewer distractions, students are able to focus on their studies, retain more information and have a better chance for a successful graduation. A private college is especially helpful for students who wish to continue their studies since admission to graduate programs are often highly competitive.