I go to Beloit, (very similiar to Lawrence and the rest of the ACMs) and I know everyone. There is no better way to get stuff done than to know the people who delegate jobs. We had this horrible bushes in front of our house when they had removed them from all over campus for security reasons they left ours for some reason. We called the head of grounds and they are gone already!
The only TA I had was in Geo Lab and his job was to drive the van and answer a few questions, it was a big class (25) and the prof wanted more help cause not too many of the students were actually geo people.
There is something comfortable about walking across campus saying hi to the Pres, Vp of whatever and most of your profs. You see people, they are accessible and they actually know your name and care. I woudln't trade it for anything, (despite the gossip and crap that does come along w/knowing everyone.) Granted it isn't for everyone, but it can be a wonderful experience!