5 answers
Vanessa
Student
Fall River, Massachusetts
1
Question
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What criteria do I need to take into account to determine which college is the best for me?
There seem to be many different things you need to take into account when choosing a college and it can be overwhelming to sort those details out.
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5 answers
Brandy Vosburgh
operations
37
Answers
Summerville, South Carolina
Updated
Brandy’s Answer
Cost maybe a big item to consider. Location and community would be another. Do you plan to work while in school and if so what is the local job market? Does the school offer housing or will you need off campus housing? Course options and does it offer the major that you would like to focus on. Extra curricular activities or groups may be an item that you are interested in and would want to consider what is offered by each school that you are considering because not all of these items are the same with each school.
Ashley Cooper
6
Answers
Lithonia, Georgia
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hello! I would of course start with making sure your major is at the institution you would like to attend. The. You have to ask yourself how far are you willing to go away from home, housing, resources(tutoring, disability services, etc.) City vs small college town, sports, pledging. These things will help you narrow down the school, then you need to look at tuition and fees. These may change your choices but it’s important for you to know what you are walking into. I hope this helps!
Fernando Iriarte
Freelance Writer & Editor
153
Answers
Puerto Rico
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
It all starts with what you're interested in studying. This helps to narrow down which colleges are better for pursuing your desired degree. After that the major factor for getting into most colleges is a good SAT score. With a good SAT score most colleges will have their doors open for you. Now there are colleges that also ask for an essay where you detail your goals, along with explaining a bit yourself as a person. Don't let this get you down, just remember to proofread the essay to avoid grammar mistakes and be sincere with what you write. Certain colleges will sometimes ask for an interview and these are rather straightforward. They're usually done by phone, though sometimes can be done on-campus, and usually have the feel a simple conversation between you and the college representative. Last thing to remember is the budget. Always go for a college that you can afford or one were you don't have to take out a major loan. The times are tough and the last thing you want is to leave yourself with a big debt after graduation.
Megan Biby
Sourcing Category Manager
6
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hi Vanessa,
There are a number of things to consider. While things like major availability, cost, school reputation (especially in the field you're looking to pursue) are all very important, I also think it's important to consider the type of college experience you're looking to have.
Do you want to be at a school where sports are a large part of the culture (tailgating, etc.), do you want to participate in Greek life, is the student body big (I find that you can make a big school small through groups, etc. but you cannot make a small school big).
I would suggest writing down all the things that are important to you from your college experience and evaluating which schools you have applied to or are planning to apply to fit the bill most closely.
Good luck!
There are a number of things to consider. While things like major availability, cost, school reputation (especially in the field you're looking to pursue) are all very important, I also think it's important to consider the type of college experience you're looking to have.
Do you want to be at a school where sports are a large part of the culture (tailgating, etc.), do you want to participate in Greek life, is the student body big (I find that you can make a big school small through groups, etc. but you cannot make a small school big).
I would suggest writing down all the things that are important to you from your college experience and evaluating which schools you have applied to or are planning to apply to fit the bill most closely.
Good luck!
Yocelin Avila
Advisor
3
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Yocelin’s Answer
What Brandy said are definitely some important things to take into consideration. I also think you should consider the size of the school. Do you want to have smaller classes and have the teacher know your name? Someone who would be able to help you any day without the need for an appointment or would you prefer a bigger classroom so that you can create a study group with other students instead? Another thing to keep in mind is if you are planning on going out of your city/state/ country, how far do you want to go and would you be able to live on your own? If you are always around friends/family you will get homesick at times. (If you do plan on living on campus make sure you know how to do your own laudry, how to cook quick and simple meals and get a couple of cleaning supplies to keep your room clean and tidy!)