Flagler College is a private liberal arts college located in St. Augustine, Florida. The college was founded in 1968 and named after Henry Morrison Flagler, a pioneer in the development of Florida’s east coast. Flagler College offers undergraduate programs in a variety of fields, including business, education, fine arts, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. In this essay, we will examine the pros and cons of attending Flagler College.
Pros of attending Flagler College:
- Beautiful campus: Flagler College’s campus is one of the most beautiful in the country. The college is located in the historic district of St. Augustine, which is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and beautiful beaches. The campus itself is full of palm trees, fountains, and historic buildings that create a unique and picturesque setting for learning.
- Small class sizes: Flagler College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, which means that students get more personalized attention from their professors. Small class sizes allow for more interaction between students and faculty, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the material.
- Strong academics: Flagler College is known for its strong academic programs, particularly in the fields of education, business, and fine arts. The college offers a wide range of majors and minors, and students have the opportunity to participate in research and internships.
- Location: St. Augustine is a vibrant and historic city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to many museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The proximity to the beach and other outdoor activities makes it an ideal location for students who enjoy the outdoors.
- Opportunities for leadership: Flagler College offers numerous opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, including student government, clubs and organizations, and community service projects. These experiences can be valuable for students who are looking to build their resumes and gain practical experience.
Cons of attending Flagler College:
- Cost: Flagler College is a private institution, and tuition and fees can be expensive. While the college offers financial aid and scholarships to help offset the cost, some students may find it difficult to afford.
- Limited academic programs: While Flagler College offers a wide range of majors and minors, some students may find that the academic programs are limited compared to larger universities. Additionally, the college does not offer graduate programs, which may be a disadvantage for students who are looking to pursue advanced degrees.
- Limited diversity: Flagler College has a predominantly white student body, and some students may find the lack of diversity to be a drawback. While the college has made efforts to increase diversity in recent years, there is still a long way to go.
- Limited campus activities: While St. Augustine offers many cultural and outdoor activities, some students may find that the college itself does not offer as many on-campus activities as larger universities. This may be a disadvantage for students who are looking for a more traditional college experience.
- Limited job opportunities: St. Augustine is a relatively small city, and job opportunities may be limited for students who are looking to work part-time or full-time while attending school. Additionally, many of the jobs in the area may be in the tourism industry, which may not be ideal for all students.
In conclusion, Flagler College is a unique and beautiful institution that offers a strong academic program and many opportunities for leadership and personal growth. However, the college may not be the best fit for all students, particularly those who are looking for a larger and more diverse campus environment, or those who are looking for more extensive academic programs. Ultimately, the decision to attend Flagler College should be based on an individual student’s needs, interests, and goals.