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How do you start finding colleges and universities that best fit with you?
I have lots of interests in many fields, and it is very overwhelming to decide what I want to do and decide where I would like to go for college.
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8 answers
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Scott’s Answer
The first thing to do is to identify exactly what your interests are. Once you do that, you can google colleges that specialize in the fields that you are interested in.
Read their websites to see exactly what they are offering and if it lines up with what you are seeking. Don’t be afraid to contact them for additional information.
Don’t forget to include other factors regarding the college- tuition, college location, availability of classes-to verify if this is the place for you.
Finally, you can contact people in the field for their input regarding their college choice.
Read their websites to see exactly what they are offering and if it lines up with what you are seeking. Don’t be afraid to contact them for additional information.
Don’t forget to include other factors regarding the college- tuition, college location, availability of classes-to verify if this is the place for you.
Finally, you can contact people in the field for their input regarding their college choice.
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
First you have to narrow down your interest into the ones you're most passionate about. After that begins the process of researching what colleges offer curriculums geared towards what you want. This process takes time and don't let anyone pressure you into making a quick decision. A good way to get a firm grasp on what the college offers is to speak with the a college representative and don't worry about asking too many questions, as long as you're being well mannered they'll answer them.
Updated
Allegra’s Answer
Evaluating your interests is important to finding the best college for you. Not only do you want to research the major/courses of study, but also think about some of the other factors as well. Consider things like if it is important for you to attend a large school with lots of extracurricular activities, or would you prefer a smaller school where you get to experience smaller class sizes and more individualized support. If you can, I would also recommend visiting the colleges you are interested in, to really get a feel for what life is like on campus. Best of luck!
Updated
TJ’s Answer
My suggestion is to sign up on LinkedIn and look at the colleges/universities in your wish list. Then the website will show a bunch of former students of the schools. The next step is to look at the jobs and carrer paths of the graduates of the colleges/universities to see if you want to be in a similar profession and a similar path. Those people's real experience will be your best advices.
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hi Sophia,
I would start with: what's your budget? And would this be in-state or out-state?
There are many things you should consider: do you want to live on campus, would you like to do an online university, or rather commute from home?
You can always consider universities that provide Merrit scholarships. Also make sure to fill out your FAFSA. It doesn't matter what you think about budget, fill it out!
A website that really helps with picking a college: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search
If you have a list of universities your interested in, go there! Visit the college, join a campus tour, see how you feel about it.
Also, you could first of all start with a short course to see how you feel about the college, before starting a major. At some colleges, you don't need to declare your major. This might give you some headspace.
Colleges are very expensive these days. There are so many people doing courses that don't suit them. Take classes in junior college (then you'll also be able to live from home) or find another way to explore whatever you like! Take your time. It's worth the wait!
But most of all: make sure to do what feels right. Good luck!
I would start with: what's your budget? And would this be in-state or out-state?
There are many things you should consider: do you want to live on campus, would you like to do an online university, or rather commute from home?
You can always consider universities that provide Merrit scholarships. Also make sure to fill out your FAFSA. It doesn't matter what you think about budget, fill it out!
A website that really helps with picking a college: https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/college-search
If you have a list of universities your interested in, go there! Visit the college, join a campus tour, see how you feel about it.
Also, you could first of all start with a short course to see how you feel about the college, before starting a major. At some colleges, you don't need to declare your major. This might give you some headspace.
Colleges are very expensive these days. There are so many people doing courses that don't suit them. Take classes in junior college (then you'll also be able to live from home) or find another way to explore whatever you like! Take your time. It's worth the wait!
But most of all: make sure to do what feels right. Good luck!
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Finding colleges and universities that are a best fit for you:
* Talk to your neighbors, family, friends and school counselors
* Talk to professors and teachers
* Take a self assessment on your skills; learn what careers would be attractive and suitable for you (e.g. if you like electrical engineering, find one that has ABET certification)
* Check out the college or university online to see what courses are offered
* Download brochures when available
* Ask if you want to live near family or not (are you willing to move out of state?)
* Do you know anyone attending that college or university? Ask them about their experience
* Check out career sites like LinkedIn for people who have attended that college or university
* Do a campus visit - see the campus and ask questions. Usually a campus tour will have students guiding you and can answer questions
Answer is from the HPE volunteer team
* Talk to your neighbors, family, friends and school counselors
* Talk to professors and teachers
* Take a self assessment on your skills; learn what careers would be attractive and suitable for you (e.g. if you like electrical engineering, find one that has ABET certification)
* Check out the college or university online to see what courses are offered
* Download brochures when available
* Ask if you want to live near family or not (are you willing to move out of state?)
* Do you know anyone attending that college or university? Ask them about their experience
* Check out career sites like LinkedIn for people who have attended that college or university
* Do a campus visit - see the campus and ask questions. Usually a campus tour will have students guiding you and can answer questions
Answer is from the HPE volunteer team
Updated
Atul’s Answer
Are you an exceptional student?
Is your Cum GPA almost perfect?
Have you taken many AP courses and scored very well?
Have you done volunteering to make a difference in the world/community?
Are you top 1% of the class?
If yes, explore Ivy League schools - they will also offer scholarships to minimize your tuition.
If no, explore state universities or colleges that will be affordable and you will not incur substantial student loan debt.
Too many students study major in a private school where they cannot find employment and have incurred substantial student loan debt.
Control your destiny.
Is your Cum GPA almost perfect?
Have you taken many AP courses and scored very well?
Have you done volunteering to make a difference in the world/community?
Are you top 1% of the class?
If yes, explore Ivy League schools - they will also offer scholarships to minimize your tuition.
If no, explore state universities or colleges that will be affordable and you will not incur substantial student loan debt.
Too many students study major in a private school where they cannot find employment and have incurred substantial student loan debt.
Control your destiny.
Updated
Chirayu’s Answer
Finding colleges and universities that best fit your interests and goals can be overwhelming, but there are a few steps you can take to make the process easier - The first step is to do a self-assessment of your interests, strengths, weaknesses, and goals. What subjects are you passionate about? What kind of career do you see yourself pursuing? What kind of environment do you thrive in? Once you have a better understanding of yourself, start researching colleges and universities that offer programs and majors that align with your interests and goals. You can use college search engines and websites, such as CollegeBoard, Naviance, or Niche to get started. You can also attend college fairs, visit campuses, and talk to admissions officers or current students to learn more about the schools. Make a list of criteria that matter most to you. Some examples might include location, size of the school, campus culture, academic rigor, extracurricular activities, or diversity. Use this list to narrow down your options and identify schools that meet your criteria. Once you have a list of schools that meet your criteria, prioritize them based on which schools you are most interested in attending. Consider factors such as your likelihood of admission, financial aid, and overall fit with the school. Finally, apply to the schools that are the best fit for you. Be sure to carefully review the application requirements and deadlines for each school, and take the time to craft thoughtful and well-written essays and applications.