How do I pick a college that will impress people in my field of work?

In psychology?

There are many factors to consider when selecting a college to attend. Prestige is just one of those factors and often doesn't matter as much as you would think once you enter the job market. Other factors to consider are cost, degree programs in the area you are interested in, location, % of graduates entering full-time employment directly after graduation, level of career advising provided, support in finding employment/ University partnerships with employers that interest you, and strength of alumni network. It is important to employers that you attend a 4-year accredited University; outside of that, it is important that you find a college where you feel YOU can be successful.

<span style="background-color: transparent;">Collegeboard.org is a great resource for this! I poured through the pages of universities all over the U.S. when I was a senior in high school. Collegeboard was my go-to site! They put all of the information in one place and it is very easy to use. They even have various filters you can apply to see only colleges that have programs you are interested. To determine academic rigor, look at the admissions requirements, G.P.A. of past admitted applicants, SAT/ACT scores, class rank etc. This will give you an idea of what scores and grades you need to be accepted. However, don't be discouraged your application will be reviewed based on the full picture! College-board will help you get an idea of what is most important to the specific school you are applying to.</span>

This professional recommends the following next steps:

• <span style="background-color: transparent;">Chat with your Guidance Counselor</span>
• <span style="background-color: transparent;">Create a Collegeboard.org account</span>
• <span style="background-color: transparent;">Start using CollegeBoard as a resource to look up schools.</span>

I have hired a number of people. The school attended does not really impress anyone at the 4 year degree level. I would instead look for a school that offers externships. This way you can graduate with some experience and you will have some occupational contacts. A lot of people get hired by their externship partner.

In my experience, at a bachelor degree level the school attended does not factor into a hiring decision as much as the characteristics of the person interviewing to be hired.

Choose a college you believe you will benefit from the atmosphere, have a great experience, and not go too far into debt.