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How will I know which college is right for me?
I am a junior but I have to start thinking about this and there’s so many out there I don’t know which ones are right for me and my future.
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A. Michelle Hawkins
Make contributions and identify volunteer opportunities for employees
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A. Michelle’s Answer
Hi Yarilis - As a first step, think about what careers most interest you and how college can help to prepare you. This will help you develop a list of colleges that offer the program(s) that will help you achieve your career goal. Unless you are pretty clear on your major, I would err on the side of choosing a college strong across academic disciplines rather than just your intended major in case you change your mind. You can begin to narrow the list by considering your preferences and needs such as school size, location, extracurricular activities and financial aid. Find out what current or recent grads have to say. If feasible, visit campus to get a feel for the campus environment.
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David’s Answer
Making a college choice can seem overwhelming, but a few key considerations can make it easier.
1. Think about your career interests. What field or profession do you see yourself in?
2. Reflect on your passions. What activities do you enjoy the most?
3. Decide if you'd prefer to stay close to home or venture further away.
Begin your search by exploring colleges within your state to see if any catch your interest. Set aside some time to meet with a college advisor and arrange a visit to the campus. This will give you a firsthand view of the college environment. You might even consider an overnight stay for a more immersive experience.
If you're contemplating studying out of state, plan a weekend visit. This will allow you to thoroughly tour the campus and engage with the college's administrators and professors.
Don't forget to discuss your options with your guidance counselor. They can provide valuable insights into which colleges might be a good fit for you.
Good luck on your college search journey!
1. Think about your career interests. What field or profession do you see yourself in?
2. Reflect on your passions. What activities do you enjoy the most?
3. Decide if you'd prefer to stay close to home or venture further away.
Begin your search by exploring colleges within your state to see if any catch your interest. Set aside some time to meet with a college advisor and arrange a visit to the campus. This will give you a firsthand view of the college environment. You might even consider an overnight stay for a more immersive experience.
If you're contemplating studying out of state, plan a weekend visit. This will allow you to thoroughly tour the campus and engage with the college's administrators and professors.
Don't forget to discuss your options with your guidance counselor. They can provide valuable insights into which colleges might be a good fit for you.
Good luck on your college search journey!
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I’d start by understanding what you are interested in doing with your life. Some colleges have great programs in art, music, theater, etc. By knowing which direction you may want to go in, doing search online for “best college art program” could yield some fruit.
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Sofia’s Answer
This is a great question and is something that I wish I had received advice for as a junior in college. I would start off by assessing what kind of environment you would thrive in. For example, do you prefer small or large class sizes? Would you like to attend a college with excellent campus life or is located near a big city?
If you know what you want to major in/what career you want to pursue, it would be good to look into which college will provide you with a good program. If you don't know your major, it would be a good idea to possibly pursue a college that will allow you the flexibility to change majors and experience other classes to try to see what you are interested in.
I'd also advise talking to college recruiters and asking them these questions as they'll be able to provide you with better insights! Best of luck.
If you know what you want to major in/what career you want to pursue, it would be good to look into which college will provide you with a good program. If you don't know your major, it would be a good idea to possibly pursue a college that will allow you the flexibility to change majors and experience other classes to try to see what you are interested in.
I'd also advise talking to college recruiters and asking them these questions as they'll be able to provide you with better insights! Best of luck.
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Michelle’s Answer
Yarilis, your question is excellent and the answer varies for everyone. The first thing to consider is your major. If you already know what you want to study, search for schools that offer it. Don't stress, it's common for students to change their major more than once. Consider the activities that interest you and make sure the school offers them.
Next, think about the cost. Can you afford only in-state tuition, or is out-of-state also a possibility? You should also consider the size of the university. Do you prefer a larger university or a smaller one?
It's a good idea to visit the campuses that you're considering. Guided tours can provide a lot of useful information. You should definitely consider the teacher-student ratio. It's important to know the kind of environment in which you thrive. This could be a large or small setting.
You should also look at their classroom policies and the housing options available, especially if you plan on living on campus. Some universities may not have enough on-campus housing for all students, which could mean you'd need to find an apartment.
In addition, you can check the school's safety record online. I believe this is a crucial factor to consider.
Next, think about the cost. Can you afford only in-state tuition, or is out-of-state also a possibility? You should also consider the size of the university. Do you prefer a larger university or a smaller one?
It's a good idea to visit the campuses that you're considering. Guided tours can provide a lot of useful information. You should definitely consider the teacher-student ratio. It's important to know the kind of environment in which you thrive. This could be a large or small setting.
You should also look at their classroom policies and the housing options available, especially if you plan on living on campus. Some universities may not have enough on-campus housing for all students, which could mean you'd need to find an apartment.
In addition, you can check the school's safety record online. I believe this is a crucial factor to consider.
Updated
L’s Answer
This is a great question and one that I don't think enough people take the time to think through. If you already know what your passion is and what you want to do, then I would target a college that has an incredible reputation for that specific thing. I would shoot as high as possible in terms of tiers of colleges and stick with tier 1 universities. Why? Because in interviews, jobs and for the rest of your professional life, one thing that will always be shared in your bios and introductions is where you went to college. It speaks volumes to the person's ambitions and their education quality and sometimes will make or break your chances at a job alone depending on the credibility of your university.
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Robert’s Answer
Picking the right college is a big decision, and with so many options, it can feel overwhelming. Let's break it down a bit. Think about what you want to study, and then look for schools strong in those areas. Consider the campus vibe – do you want a large university or a smaller college? Think about location; some people love the hustle and bustle of a city, while others prefer a more laid-back setting. Don't forget to factor in the financial side, including scholarships and financial aid. Visiting campuses, if possible, can give you a real feel for the place. You might also want to chat with current students or recent alumni. They can provide some honest insights you won't find in a brochure. And remember, it's okay to ask for help! Guidance counselors, teachers, or family members who know you well can offer valuable perspectives. It's a journey, so take your time, and trust that you'll find a place where you'll grow and thrive. You've got this!
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Nathaniel P.’s Answer
Begin by reflecting on what brings you joy and what you excel at.
What sparks your passion and makes you excited about life? Do you find pleasure in intricate games or do you prefer simplicity? Are you drawn to words or images?
There are countless colleges out there, each designed to unlock the potential of students like you, guiding some towards their desired career path, or even helping them embark on a second one. If you're uncertain about your career path, consider what you love to do in your free time. Is there a way to transform that into a profession? Could a college program help you refine your skills and deepen your enjoyment of this hobby?
Being a junior is a great time to ponder these questions. But remember, take your time and don't hesitate to ask questions! Seek advice from teachers, friends, and anyone willing to offer their perspective. However, remember that your happiness can't be dictated by someone else's decisions. Embrace your interests and desires, and start mapping out potential ideas and paths!
Check out local community colleges as they can offer great courses for less money.
Check out up and coming jobs that might go along with your hobbies.
Most cities have access to career building services like workforce.com or some state run offices that might offer some info on college programs!
What sparks your passion and makes you excited about life? Do you find pleasure in intricate games or do you prefer simplicity? Are you drawn to words or images?
There are countless colleges out there, each designed to unlock the potential of students like you, guiding some towards their desired career path, or even helping them embark on a second one. If you're uncertain about your career path, consider what you love to do in your free time. Is there a way to transform that into a profession? Could a college program help you refine your skills and deepen your enjoyment of this hobby?
Being a junior is a great time to ponder these questions. But remember, take your time and don't hesitate to ask questions! Seek advice from teachers, friends, and anyone willing to offer their perspective. However, remember that your happiness can't be dictated by someone else's decisions. Embrace your interests and desires, and start mapping out potential ideas and paths!
Nathaniel P. recommends the following next steps:
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
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Updated
Alan’s Answer
You have to start by deciding your most likely major. Assuming you can, then begin looking at college websites to see what majors and curricula they offer. Of course, possible scholarships are a major factor as well. Take tours of some that may be convenient for you. Talk with your guidance counselor, and attend events that feature college recruiters.
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you may need to find out what career you have interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about your interest, hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you are interest in Maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, financial analyst, engineer, maths teacher, etc.
If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical actor, music producer, music composer, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the college ranking and review of relevant subjects and their entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about your interest, hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you are interest in Maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, financial analyst, engineer, maths teacher, etc.
If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical actor, music producer, music composer, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the college ranking and review of relevant subjects and their entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!