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Valeria
Student
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How can I choose the right college to attend? What factor should I keep in mind when deciding?
How can I choose the right college to attend?
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9 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Valeria as you prepare to graduate from high school, one of the first decisions you may make is choosing a college to attend. It can be essential that you receive an affordable, quality education on a campus that's safe and convenient. Knowing the things to look for in colleges can enable you to narrow down your list of prospective schools and commit to an institution that can provide the best experiences for you throughout the next four years. Below I've listed the top 5 things I believe to be the most important.
YOUR EXPECTED MAJOR
This can be a hard enough decision to make in itself. If you haven’t picked a major yet – don’t worry – you are definitely not alone. This category may be lower on your list of priorities, but it’s still worth taking a look at a school’s programs and available majors and minors. See if they offer classes in areas that pique your interest – college is a great place to experiment with different fields and most will not require you to declare a major until the end of your sophomore year. On the other hand, if you do know your major then narrowing down schools will be much simpler. Consider colleges that are well known for your major or have a large number of students who graduate with the degree you hope to receive.
COLLEGE LOCATION (HOUSING)
For many this is the easiest part of picking a university. Narrowing your search down to your hometown makes perfect sense if you plan to live at home (a great option for those looking to save money). Whether you want to stay close to home or adventure out into parts unknown, it’s important to keep location in mind in more ways than you might think. You may prefer a bustling city to a more rural atmosphere or want to stay close to the mountains or the ocean depending on your hobbies. Thinking about the best location for your major can also help narrow your search. For example, if you intend to major in engineering, are there any areas in which engineering jobs are concentrated? It’s important to think about whether or not you plan on interning during your college career — you’ll want to ensure plenty of internship opportunities for yourself within range of your school. Regardless of whether or not you select a school close to home, keep your housing options in mind. Some universities require all incoming freshmen to live on campus. Pay attention to dorm options and costs as well as the availability of off-campus housing in the area.
AFFORDABILITY
For many students, cost is a major factor in the college search. When it comes time to pick a college, you want to make sure the school fits your budget, even after accounting for fees and living expenses. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average public university costs over $20,000 per year, while private universities cost nearly $45,000 per year. On top of tuition, fees, and room and board, students should also consider the area's cost of living and expenses like transportation, extracurriculars, and entertainment. Valeria you should also research financial aid, as scholarships, grants, and fellowships can lower the cost of a college degree. Many students also rely on loans to help pay for college. Distance learning students can qualify for online financial aid.
EDUCATIONAL FIT
By now you should have an idea of what kind of learning environment is the most effective for you. If you prefer one-on-one, you’ll want to select a school with smaller class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio that will allow for professors to give each student individualized attention and help. If you’re a hands-on learner, you should look for colleges with state of the art labs, technology, or other resources in your field. Some schools offer more flexible curriculums that allow their students to sample a range of courses, while others are more rigid and offer little deviation from the courses outlined for your major. Take the time to research some of the professors as well. Highly educated teachers with real-world expertise in their area of study make for more interesting classes and a better educational experience overall.
GRADUATION PERCENTAGE
At the end of the day, college is merely a stepping stone on the way to a brighter future. Consider each school’s graduation rate. If only a small portion of students are completing the full program, there’s bound to be good reason. Any reputable university’s website should provide their graduation rate, the percentage of students who are working in their field of study and those who had a job within six months of graduation. College is expensive and you should come out of it feeling like it was worth your while. If you’ve chosen a more competitive career path, you may want to prioritize colleges with an abundance of career and internship resources for their students.
Hope this will be helpful Valeria
YOUR EXPECTED MAJOR
This can be a hard enough decision to make in itself. If you haven’t picked a major yet – don’t worry – you are definitely not alone. This category may be lower on your list of priorities, but it’s still worth taking a look at a school’s programs and available majors and minors. See if they offer classes in areas that pique your interest – college is a great place to experiment with different fields and most will not require you to declare a major until the end of your sophomore year. On the other hand, if you do know your major then narrowing down schools will be much simpler. Consider colleges that are well known for your major or have a large number of students who graduate with the degree you hope to receive.
COLLEGE LOCATION (HOUSING)
For many this is the easiest part of picking a university. Narrowing your search down to your hometown makes perfect sense if you plan to live at home (a great option for those looking to save money). Whether you want to stay close to home or adventure out into parts unknown, it’s important to keep location in mind in more ways than you might think. You may prefer a bustling city to a more rural atmosphere or want to stay close to the mountains or the ocean depending on your hobbies. Thinking about the best location for your major can also help narrow your search. For example, if you intend to major in engineering, are there any areas in which engineering jobs are concentrated? It’s important to think about whether or not you plan on interning during your college career — you’ll want to ensure plenty of internship opportunities for yourself within range of your school. Regardless of whether or not you select a school close to home, keep your housing options in mind. Some universities require all incoming freshmen to live on campus. Pay attention to dorm options and costs as well as the availability of off-campus housing in the area.
AFFORDABILITY
For many students, cost is a major factor in the college search. When it comes time to pick a college, you want to make sure the school fits your budget, even after accounting for fees and living expenses. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average public university costs over $20,000 per year, while private universities cost nearly $45,000 per year. On top of tuition, fees, and room and board, students should also consider the area's cost of living and expenses like transportation, extracurriculars, and entertainment. Valeria you should also research financial aid, as scholarships, grants, and fellowships can lower the cost of a college degree. Many students also rely on loans to help pay for college. Distance learning students can qualify for online financial aid.
EDUCATIONAL FIT
By now you should have an idea of what kind of learning environment is the most effective for you. If you prefer one-on-one, you’ll want to select a school with smaller class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio that will allow for professors to give each student individualized attention and help. If you’re a hands-on learner, you should look for colleges with state of the art labs, technology, or other resources in your field. Some schools offer more flexible curriculums that allow their students to sample a range of courses, while others are more rigid and offer little deviation from the courses outlined for your major. Take the time to research some of the professors as well. Highly educated teachers with real-world expertise in their area of study make for more interesting classes and a better educational experience overall.
GRADUATION PERCENTAGE
At the end of the day, college is merely a stepping stone on the way to a brighter future. Consider each school’s graduation rate. If only a small portion of students are completing the full program, there’s bound to be good reason. Any reputable university’s website should provide their graduation rate, the percentage of students who are working in their field of study and those who had a job within six months of graduation. College is expensive and you should come out of it feeling like it was worth your while. If you’ve chosen a more competitive career path, you may want to prioritize colleges with an abundance of career and internship resources for their students.
Hope this will be helpful Valeria
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I think that resources are very important.
* Does your preferred college have your major?
*Does it have a good library and study facilities and tutoring that will help support you academics?
*Does it have a good student life program, activities and bookstore?
*Is the college close to home, and your family support network?
*How is the advising program?
*Do they have a job center and possible future job internships and employer recruiting opportunities?
These are various elements to consider in a future college.
* Does your preferred college have your major?
*Does it have a good library and study facilities and tutoring that will help support you academics?
*Does it have a good student life program, activities and bookstore?
*Is the college close to home, and your family support network?
*How is the advising program?
*Do they have a job center and possible future job internships and employer recruiting opportunities?
These are various elements to consider in a future college.
janet gazlay martin
Lead a team of Project Managers
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
janet’s Answer
Selecting the "perfect" school is an exciting adventure. When I embarked on this journey, and later with my children, we began by considering location: should we stay local, remain somewhat close, or venture far away? The size of the school is another factor - visit a few small, medium, and large institutions in your area to get a sense of what feels right. Then, explore those schools that offer programs that pique your interest. Don't forget to examine student success rates, such as graduation and job placement statistics. Lastly, while finances are important, don't immediately dismiss a school due to its cost. There's potential financial aid available, but it's also crucial to be practical about travel, accommodation, and other expenses that may not be included. This journey may seem daunting, but remember, it's also an opportunity for growth and discovery.
Check out the LevelAll app, a virtual guidance counselor
Don't rule out 2 year or community colleges, when you switch to a 4 year school in your major most credits come along, you save big bucks and end with the same degree.
Start your admission essay early, make it personal and engaging.
janet recommends the following next steps:
Yaz M
Recruit
50
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Yaz’s Answer
This is all dependent on you and your career interests. Some questions you can consider is:
Does the college have programs that align with my preffered major?
Is the tuition affordable and within my budget?
Is the location in a great or even safe city/area?
Does this college have any sponsorship opportunities?
Does this college have a great reputation?
Are there easy ways for me to commute around the campus?
What are the facilities like?
Are there extra curricular clubs that are offered that are interesting?
When in doubt, research and look at some youtube videos about the colleges! You might get more useful information that can help you make a decision.
Does the college have programs that align with my preffered major?
Is the tuition affordable and within my budget?
Is the location in a great or even safe city/area?
Does this college have any sponsorship opportunities?
Does this college have a great reputation?
Are there easy ways for me to commute around the campus?
What are the facilities like?
Are there extra curricular clubs that are offered that are interesting?
When in doubt, research and look at some youtube videos about the colleges! You might get more useful information that can help you make a decision.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1860
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Different college have strength in different subjects. Therefore, you better decide what career you have interest first.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest first, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, 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 counselor, your parent, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects of these careers would be the major and minor you can target in the college.
5. Explore the college review in these subjects and find out the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck,!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest first, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, 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 counselor, your parent, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects of these careers would be the major and minor you can target in the college.
5. Explore the college review in these subjects and find out the entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck,!
Olivia Pledger
Financial Analyst
3
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Hello Valeria,
What a fantastic question you've posed! The decision of selecting a college involves a careful evaluation of numerous aspects.
1. Financial Considerations - Can you comfortably handle the tuition fees? Are there any scholarships available that you could apply for?
2. Geographical Factors - Would you prefer to stay near your family? What would your daily commute to the campus look like? Is the climate of the college town agreeable to you?
3. Campus Dimensions - Are you more comfortable in larger or smaller classes? Would you like to be able to stroll between classes?
Remember, the value you get from your college journey is directly proportional to the effort you invest. I suggest identifying 1-3 critical factors that are absolutely essential for you and begin your search for universities that satisfy these criteria. I also strongly recommend visiting the campus prior to making your final decision. There's a wealth of information to be gained from a personal visit, and it can give you a feel for the community that could potentially become your second home. Like with most things in life, approach this with an open mind and everything else will naturally fall into place!
What a fantastic question you've posed! The decision of selecting a college involves a careful evaluation of numerous aspects.
1. Financial Considerations - Can you comfortably handle the tuition fees? Are there any scholarships available that you could apply for?
2. Geographical Factors - Would you prefer to stay near your family? What would your daily commute to the campus look like? Is the climate of the college town agreeable to you?
3. Campus Dimensions - Are you more comfortable in larger or smaller classes? Would you like to be able to stroll between classes?
Remember, the value you get from your college journey is directly proportional to the effort you invest. I suggest identifying 1-3 critical factors that are absolutely essential for you and begin your search for universities that satisfy these criteria. I also strongly recommend visiting the campus prior to making your final decision. There's a wealth of information to be gained from a personal visit, and it can give you a feel for the community that could potentially become your second home. Like with most things in life, approach this with an open mind and everything else will naturally fall into place!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey there, Valeria!
Making the Best College Choice
Deciding on the perfect college is a significant step that can shape your future. It's a journey that demands thoughtful consideration of various elements to guarantee you make an educated decision. Here are some vital factors to bear in mind as you select the ideal college for you:
1. Study Programs and Majors: Your primary focus when picking a college should be the availability and quality of study programs and majors. Search for colleges that provide programs that match your interests and career aspirations. Pay attention to the reputation of the department or school within the college that offers your chosen major.
2. Accreditation: Accreditation is a seal of approval that a college meets certain quality standards and offers a recognized level of education. It's crucial to select a college accredited by a respectable accrediting agency to ensure you get a worthwhile education.
3. Location: Think about the college's location and if it fits with your preferences and lifestyle. Consider aspects like distance from home, weather, city or countryside setting, and opportunities for internships or jobs nearby.
4. College Size: The college's size can influence your overall experience. Bigger universities might offer a wider range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and resources, while smaller colleges might offer a cozier learning environment with smaller classes and more personalized attention from professors.
5. Campus Life and Community: Visiting the campuses you're considering can give you a sense of the campus life and community. Engage with current students, attend information sessions, or join campus tours to gauge if you'd feel comfortable and happy there.
6. Cost and Financial Aid: College can be costly, so it's vital to consider the total cost of tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses related to each college on your list. Look into financial aid options like scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans to figure out the affordability of each college.
7. Student Support Services: Investigate the student support services provided by the colleges you're considering. These might include academic advising, career counseling, mental health services, tutoring programs, and extracurricular opportunities. Check the availability and quality of these services to ensure you'll have the necessary support throughout your college journey.
8. Graduation and Job Placement Rates: Look into the graduation and job placement rates of the colleges you're interested in. A high graduation rate shows that students are successfully completing their programs, while a strong job placement rate indicates that graduates are securing jobs in their chosen fields. These statistics can give you a glimpse into the college’s commitment to student success.
9. Alumni Network: Think about the strength and size of the college’s alumni network. An active and supportive alumni network can offer valuable networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and potential job connections after graduation.
10. Campus Facilities and Resources: Check out the campus facilities and resources available at each college. This includes libraries, labs, computer centers, sports facilities, student organizations, and other amenities that contribute to your overall college experience.
By considering these factors and thoroughly researching each college, you can make an educated decision about which institution is the best fit for you.
Top 3 Authoritative References Used:
The College Board - A non-profit organization offering information and resources related to college admissions, SAT exams, financial aid, and more.
U.S. News & World Report - Publishes annual rankings of colleges and universities based on factors such as academic reputation, graduation rates, faculty resources, financial aid offerings, and more.
Peterson’s - An online resource providing information on colleges, test preparation, scholarships, and career guidance.
Also, could you check out my autobiography for a list of foods rich in nutrients that boost brain function during academic study? They could change your life and the way you manage stress and long study hours. You might even find you don't need to study as long.
Stay blessed!
James.
Making the Best College Choice
Deciding on the perfect college is a significant step that can shape your future. It's a journey that demands thoughtful consideration of various elements to guarantee you make an educated decision. Here are some vital factors to bear in mind as you select the ideal college for you:
1. Study Programs and Majors: Your primary focus when picking a college should be the availability and quality of study programs and majors. Search for colleges that provide programs that match your interests and career aspirations. Pay attention to the reputation of the department or school within the college that offers your chosen major.
2. Accreditation: Accreditation is a seal of approval that a college meets certain quality standards and offers a recognized level of education. It's crucial to select a college accredited by a respectable accrediting agency to ensure you get a worthwhile education.
3. Location: Think about the college's location and if it fits with your preferences and lifestyle. Consider aspects like distance from home, weather, city or countryside setting, and opportunities for internships or jobs nearby.
4. College Size: The college's size can influence your overall experience. Bigger universities might offer a wider range of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and resources, while smaller colleges might offer a cozier learning environment with smaller classes and more personalized attention from professors.
5. Campus Life and Community: Visiting the campuses you're considering can give you a sense of the campus life and community. Engage with current students, attend information sessions, or join campus tours to gauge if you'd feel comfortable and happy there.
6. Cost and Financial Aid: College can be costly, so it's vital to consider the total cost of tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses related to each college on your list. Look into financial aid options like scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans to figure out the affordability of each college.
7. Student Support Services: Investigate the student support services provided by the colleges you're considering. These might include academic advising, career counseling, mental health services, tutoring programs, and extracurricular opportunities. Check the availability and quality of these services to ensure you'll have the necessary support throughout your college journey.
8. Graduation and Job Placement Rates: Look into the graduation and job placement rates of the colleges you're interested in. A high graduation rate shows that students are successfully completing their programs, while a strong job placement rate indicates that graduates are securing jobs in their chosen fields. These statistics can give you a glimpse into the college’s commitment to student success.
9. Alumni Network: Think about the strength and size of the college’s alumni network. An active and supportive alumni network can offer valuable networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and potential job connections after graduation.
10. Campus Facilities and Resources: Check out the campus facilities and resources available at each college. This includes libraries, labs, computer centers, sports facilities, student organizations, and other amenities that contribute to your overall college experience.
By considering these factors and thoroughly researching each college, you can make an educated decision about which institution is the best fit for you.
Top 3 Authoritative References Used:
The College Board - A non-profit organization offering information and resources related to college admissions, SAT exams, financial aid, and more.
U.S. News & World Report - Publishes annual rankings of colleges and universities based on factors such as academic reputation, graduation rates, faculty resources, financial aid offerings, and more.
Peterson’s - An online resource providing information on colleges, test preparation, scholarships, and career guidance.
Also, could you check out my autobiography for a list of foods rich in nutrients that boost brain function during academic study? They could change your life and the way you manage stress and long study hours. You might even find you don't need to study as long.
Stay blessed!
James.
Mahi Patel
Student Advisor and Dental
99
Answers
Davie, Florida
Updated
Mahi’s Answer
Price, location, program/major availability, social life, resources available.
Camryn Maginel
Financial Analyst
5
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Camryn’s Answer
Every college boasts unique advantages and disadvantages, both in terms of academics and social life. It's beneficial to create a list of your personal preferences and aversions. When touring potential colleges, ensure that they offer more of what you like and less of what you don't. Confirming that the college provides your chosen major and has successful alumni from that field can significantly aid your career prospects after graduation.
On the social side of college life, it's important to verify that they host organizations you're interested in joining. These could range from professional associations, fraternities or sororities to campus ministries. It's valuable to have a social circle beyond your academic major to enrich your overall college experience over the four years.
On the social side of college life, it's important to verify that they host organizations you're interested in joining. These could range from professional associations, fraternities or sororities to campus ministries. It's valuable to have a social circle beyond your academic major to enrich your overall college experience over the four years.