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How important is it to go to a college that has a environment that suits you?

The schools I am interested in are more on the expensive side, but if I think I would be happy and comfortable at these schools, is it worth it? #college

Thank you comment icon It is best to consider a combination of things when choosing what collage to go to. What is in your price range What is the environment (and you must consider what type of people that environment attracts as this will best help you find like minded friends if you choose an environment that produces people similar to yourself Does the school have a good major for your field of interest Rachel Albritton
Thank you comment icon For me personally, the college experience is more enjoyable when you are in an environment that makes you feel safe and is conducive to learning. I think part of it also depends on how sensitive you are to your environments. erica
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Janet’s Answer

Great question. It should be a combination of what you can afford, the environment, and what you are most interested in studying. You do not want to come out with a lot of debt. It's extremely hard to get out from under it once you leave college. I'm sure there are plenty of options to meet all of your needs.
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Vivian’s Answer

Hey Allie! The college environment is super helpful for you to adapt into college life but it isn't everything. For me, I knew that I wanted to attend a university where I was close to the beach as well as a campus that was more close to everything so I picked to go to UCSB. I know people who decide to change or transfer schools because they can't adapt to the college environment and find the support that they are looking for. I would say it is definitely important for you to like the school but at the same time it is what you decide to make of it. If expense is your concern, I would say look into scholarship or financial opportunities to cover for your expenses. I think you should go with what your heart is telling you to especially if you know you will prosper in the school of your choice. Good luck!
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Colleen’s Answer

Hi Allie!

Finding a college environment that fits you is an important factor to consider when deciding where to go to college. It is important to find a college that fits your personal needs, because at the end of the day that is going to be your home for the next 4 years and that is also going to be maybe the first time in your life that you are going to be living on your own. I had a friend who decided to only go to a university, not because she actually liked the university but because of the name of the school and because the school is generally known to be a good school. However she absolutely hated it, the school was near a small town in the middle of no where and she is a very social and bubble person, so her expectations were not met because she felt the environment where her school was, was limiting her to what brings her joy. She later then transferred a year later to a school in which she absolutely loved and the school was located in the city and she is still thriving in happiness. Your situation can be different, but you definitely should choose a school whose environment fits your needs. Now in regards to price, sometimes there is pressure to attend schools that our friends want to go or because the school is good, popular and big. However, just because hundreds and thousands of people love and belong in a school that doesn't mean that, that school is for you and that you will feel like you belong in that school. It all depends on your preference and needs.
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Emily’s Answer

Hi Allie!

I agree with the answers already posted which note that this decision should be a mix of what you can afford, what you'd like to study, and the environment.

If you're leaning towards a school on the more expensive side, but think it may be a good fit, you may want to weigh some pros and cons to going to each. It may be a good idea to look into not only what you can afford, but also how much money you're anticipated to make in your new career.
Personally, I originally chose a school because the rest of my family went there, and because it was the cheaper option. I figured if it worked for them, it would work for me. When I went to this school though, I discovered it did not have an environment that suited me. It wasn't until I got there that I realized what I needed to succeed. I ended up switching and graduating to a university that was pricier, but that I loved, and the school gave me all I wanted from the college experience and more. While this decision I chose made sense for me, keep in mind it may not have made sense for someone else. I also did have to spend some time thinking over this change to make sure it could work financially; remember this is an important decision, but it doesn't have to be a final decision.

Also keep in mind college can be what you make of it, and the environment doesn't have to define you. In the end, it depends on what you're looking from a college experience, and what you need to succeed in getting your degree.

Hope this helps - Best of luck!

Best,
Emily
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Elizabeth’s Answer

Environment is very important. The best way to get a feel for the environment is to visit the campus when classes are in full swing. Talk to students, faculty and administrators, if possible. I remember visiting a campus and while there everyone looked down instead of at me. At another campus, the feel was very different. People acknowledged my presence and it was where I chose to attend. Of course, having the major you want to pursue is important OR having the resources to help you decide if you are not certain of your major is important, too. Cost may prohibit going to one place over another but no matter where you go, how you approach your education is important. You need to put yourself out there - attend events, get involved in campus activities and students organizations. You make the institution, the institution does not make you. Opportunities will not necessarily fall in your lap so it is important to keep your eyes and ears open. All the best.
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