Isabel
Is it most convenient to go straight to University or should I attend college first, if so, why?
What are the benefits of attending college first before going to the University? Why would I want to go there first? #college
2 answers
Brittany Ammendolia, CHRP
Brittany’s Answer
Great question! I am located in Canada and an only speak to our differences between universities and colleges but they may apply to where you are located too. Colleges here are a lot more hands-on, and universities are typically more theoretical. I went to a university for psychology and after receiving my BA degree, I wanted to shift a little to Human Resources. In that case, I went to a college for a post-graduate program because it allowed me gain access to a co-op after my studies and that really set me up for work experience.
So, I didn't go to college before university but I found it helpful. I think it depends on what area you wanted to go into and reassess from there. Questions to ask yourself: Does your ideal career need additional education? Does it require more hand-on work (e.g., culinary school)? What do employers in your area look for?
Hope this helps!
Ms. Cartographer
Ms.’s Answer
Hi, Isabel!
When you say college, do you mean a technical school?
I think it all depends on what you want to do eventually. For example, some of the majors at the university where I work are very flexible so students could start off at a technical college (finish as many of their generals as possible - biggest benefit is they save a lot of money) and then transfer to a university to start in their program/major courses.
However, there are some majors (e.g. Music, Education) where transferring from a technical college to a university may actually add time to your degree plan (so wouldn't actually save you credits or money). This is due to the structure of some majors, especially those that require you to start on major/pre-program classes during your first or second year. Also, sometimes I find that some of my students who transfer in from a technical college can't actually transfer in some of their credits because there are no course equivalencies.
I'd suggest trying to narrow down what you'd like to do with a major/career. Once you decide, connect with the university that you want to finish this major with to see what their course requirements are for graduation. Then determine if it's in your best interest to actually attend a technical college first or if you really should start at a university to get going in your major. Make sense?
Best of luck to you!
-Y