Students may or may not like living in Ames. If you are from a larger town or a city, Ames might seem like dullsville.

But if you are from a small town or a farm, Ames can be exciting.

Whatever the case, Ames is pretty important nationally.

It just received the distinction of being named the second-best small city in the United States from “The New Rating Guide of Life in America’s Small Cities.”

Following only Mount Vernon, Wash., the home of Iowa State has a lot to offer.

For the most part, Ames is a safe town. The crime rate is low.

Ames is a nice place to raise a family and accumulate friends.

There are neighborhoods, schools and churches that allow residents to get involved in the community.

Ames also is an entertainment hub.

Hilton Coliseum and other university and city venues draw artists like Elton John, Garth Brooks, Metallica, the Eagles and local bands like the Nadas.

We also enjoy the art of musicals like “Evita,” ballets like “The Nutcracker” and plays like “How to Succeed at Business Without Really Trying.”

Mary Greeley Medical Center and McFarland Clinic are an outstanding institution in medical care for the community.

And with ISU doubling the population of the city, many of the activities in town are centered on youth and the future.

ISU gives excellent educational opportunities to Ames and the nation.

Students from Ames High often get the chance to take courses at the university, which simply enhances their educational background.

And with much of the city focused on the university, college students from all over the state and the nation interact with residents.

Not only is Ames a college town, it also is a great place to live — for all generations.