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What do I look for in a college?
What should I look for in a college not including the acceptance and graduation rates. I want to go for journalism, but don’t know which college would be best for that.
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7 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
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Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would look at resources.
Does the college have a good library? For you, it might be seeing if they have a good writing center.
See what they have as far as possible internships, does it have a job center? What about study facilities?
How about campus activities? Does it have a student newspaper or a student or campus life program?
These might be things to consider.
Does the college have a good library? For you, it might be seeing if they have a good writing center.
See what they have as far as possible internships, does it have a job center? What about study facilities?
How about campus activities? Does it have a student newspaper or a student or campus life program?
These might be things to consider.
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
Quality of curriculum, pricing, financial aid, available scholarships and post graduate aids. These are some of the key things to keep an eye out when looking for college. Take your time to research and don't forget that you can call a college representative to ask about other services the college has, as well as clear up any other doubts you may have.
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
I recommend diving into the curriculum offered and checking if hands-on experiences such as internships or practicums are included. Don't forget to see if the college provides ample chances for networking and creating meaningful relationships with past students who are now professionals in the journalism industry. This could be a great stepping stone for your future career!
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
You should consider the financial side: Whether it matches your current financial possibilities or you will need to apply for some scholarships. It would be great to apply both the colleges of your dream, and the ones which you have a higher chance of acceptance, but may be those are not as reputable as the others. You can do this way if not losing/having an academic gap year a priority for you.
Updated
Brianna’s Answer
Choosing my university was influenced by its closeness to home and the feel of the campus library. I was aware that my intense study schedule would require me to spend a significant amount of time in the library.
I also firmly believe that visiting colleges is a critical step in making the right choice.
When it comes to finding schools that offer the right focus for your studies, don't hesitate to rely on your guidance counselors! They can provide invaluable assistance.
If you're interested in journalism, consider reaching out to local newspaper writers for an interview. It could be a great way to learn about their journey and gain insights into your own path.
I also firmly believe that visiting colleges is a critical step in making the right choice.
When it comes to finding schools that offer the right focus for your studies, don't hesitate to rely on your guidance counselors! They can provide invaluable assistance.
If you're interested in journalism, consider reaching out to local newspaper writers for an interview. It could be a great way to learn about their journey and gain insights into your own path.
Updated
Kasey’s Answer
Hello,
One of the main things when looking for a good college or workplace is the people. Do you feel safe and wanted? Does the school meet all of your needs such as are there things that could better you as a student? Does the school offer the proper resources for you to excel at your chosen field? Do you have a good advisor or counselor? This may not seem important now, but this is the main person that can help you go the distance. Are there good restaurants in or near the school. Nutrition is key to staying focused and healthy. This school should be the one that just makes you smile inside.
I wish you the best on your future endeavors.
One of the main things when looking for a good college or workplace is the people. Do you feel safe and wanted? Does the school meet all of your needs such as are there things that could better you as a student? Does the school offer the proper resources for you to excel at your chosen field? Do you have a good advisor or counselor? This may not seem important now, but this is the main person that can help you go the distance. Are there good restaurants in or near the school. Nutrition is key to staying focused and healthy. This school should be the one that just makes you smile inside.
I wish you the best on your future endeavors.
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Choosing the right college for your journalism studies involves considering various factors beyond acceptance and graduation rates. Here are key aspects to look for when evaluating colleges for a journalism program:
**1. Accreditation:**
- Ensure that the college is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation signifies that the institution meets certain educational standards and that your degree will be respected by employers.
**2. Journalism Program Reputation:**
- Research the reputation of the journalism program itself. Look for colleges known for their strong journalism departments and faculty with real-world experience in the field.
**3. Course Offerings:**
- Review the journalism courses and curriculum. Ensure that the college offers a variety of courses that align with your interests within journalism, such as print, broadcast, digital media, or investigative journalism.
**4. Internship Opportunities:**
- Journalism is a field that greatly benefits from hands-on experience. Look for colleges located in areas with ample internship opportunities at media outlets, newsrooms, or communication agencies.
**5. Campus Media Outlets:**
- Check if the college has student-run newspapers, magazines, radio stations, or TV stations. Involvement in campus media can provide valuable practical experience.
**6. Faculty Expertise:**
- Investigate the backgrounds and expertise of the journalism faculty. Professors with industry experience and connections can offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.
**7. Alumni Success:**
- Research the career paths of alumni who graduated from the journalism program. Success stories and connections to established professionals can be indicative of a program's quality.
**8. Technology and Facilities:**
- Journalism relies heavily on technology. Ensure that the college provides access to modern equipment, software, and facilities for journalism students.
**9. Extracurricular Opportunities:**
- Consider the availability of journalism-related clubs, organizations, or competitions on campus. These can enhance your skills and build your portfolio.
**10. Location:**
- Think about the location of the college. Being in or near a major media market can provide more opportunities for internships and networking.
**11. Financial Aid and Scholarships:**
- Investigate the availability of financial aid, scholarships, or grants specifically for journalism students. This can help ease the financial burden of your education.
**12. Alumni Network:**
- A strong alumni network can be a valuable resource for career advice, job connections, and mentorship. Inquire about the size and activity of the college's journalism alumni network.
**13. Personal Fit:**
- Consider your own preferences regarding campus size, culture, and campus life. Visiting campuses and talking to current students can help you determine if a college is the right fit for you.
Ultimately, the best college for journalism is the one that aligns with your goals, values, and career aspirations. Take the time to research, visit campuses, and speak with professors and current students. Your college experience should not only provide a solid education but also offer opportunities to grow, learn, and prepare for a successful journalism career.
**1. Accreditation:**
- Ensure that the college is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation signifies that the institution meets certain educational standards and that your degree will be respected by employers.
**2. Journalism Program Reputation:**
- Research the reputation of the journalism program itself. Look for colleges known for their strong journalism departments and faculty with real-world experience in the field.
**3. Course Offerings:**
- Review the journalism courses and curriculum. Ensure that the college offers a variety of courses that align with your interests within journalism, such as print, broadcast, digital media, or investigative journalism.
**4. Internship Opportunities:**
- Journalism is a field that greatly benefits from hands-on experience. Look for colleges located in areas with ample internship opportunities at media outlets, newsrooms, or communication agencies.
**5. Campus Media Outlets:**
- Check if the college has student-run newspapers, magazines, radio stations, or TV stations. Involvement in campus media can provide valuable practical experience.
**6. Faculty Expertise:**
- Investigate the backgrounds and expertise of the journalism faculty. Professors with industry experience and connections can offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.
**7. Alumni Success:**
- Research the career paths of alumni who graduated from the journalism program. Success stories and connections to established professionals can be indicative of a program's quality.
**8. Technology and Facilities:**
- Journalism relies heavily on technology. Ensure that the college provides access to modern equipment, software, and facilities for journalism students.
**9. Extracurricular Opportunities:**
- Consider the availability of journalism-related clubs, organizations, or competitions on campus. These can enhance your skills and build your portfolio.
**10. Location:**
- Think about the location of the college. Being in or near a major media market can provide more opportunities for internships and networking.
**11. Financial Aid and Scholarships:**
- Investigate the availability of financial aid, scholarships, or grants specifically for journalism students. This can help ease the financial burden of your education.
**12. Alumni Network:**
- A strong alumni network can be a valuable resource for career advice, job connections, and mentorship. Inquire about the size and activity of the college's journalism alumni network.
**13. Personal Fit:**
- Consider your own preferences regarding campus size, culture, and campus life. Visiting campuses and talking to current students can help you determine if a college is the right fit for you.
Ultimately, the best college for journalism is the one that aligns with your goals, values, and career aspirations. Take the time to research, visit campuses, and speak with professors and current students. Your college experience should not only provide a solid education but also offer opportunities to grow, learn, and prepare for a successful journalism career.