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How do you decide what college you want?

I just wanted to know how does someone go about their decision.

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Annalise’s Answer

Hi Liliana!

When I was looking for colleges, I started really broad. I looked at US News and Reports to look at best schools based on different categories (student life, academic status, etc.) The more schools I looked at, the more I was able to understand all of the different options and opportunities. I was then able to decide things I didn't want. You can look at location, how big the school is, whether or not the school as Greek Life, sports, etc. Suddenly, my list was getting a little shorter. If you can, I recommend visiting this campus! It's always helpful to talk to students and go on a tour of campus to help envision what your life would look like if you were to be a student there. There are a lot of amazing schools with great academics. But, it's the people and professors that make a great college experience, so don't discount that!

Here is a bullet point list of different factors you can look at!
- Location (do you care if you are far? how hard is it to travel there?)
- Do they have majors you are interested in? Is there an opportunity to pursue multiple interests?
- What is campus life like? What do students do for fun? Clubs, dorm-life, greek life, school spirit, sports?
- What are the students like?

It is very overwhelming, but you will find your way! Good luck!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Lilianna,

How to Decide What College You Want

Choosing a college is a significant decision that can have a lasting impact on your future. Here are some steps to help you decide what college you want to attend:

1. Self-Reflection and Goal Setting: Before starting your college search, take some time for self-reflection. Consider your interests, strengths, weaknesses, values, and goals. Think about what you want to study and achieve in your career. Setting clear goals can help you narrow down your college choices based on programs and opportunities that align with your aspirations.

2. Research Potential Colleges: Once you have a better understanding of yourself and your goals, start researching potential colleges. Look into factors such as academic programs, faculty reputation, campus culture, location, size, extracurricular activities, internship opportunities, and career services. Create a list of colleges that meet your criteria and interests.

3. Visit Campuses (if possible): If feasible, visit the campuses of the colleges on your list. Campus visits can give you a feel for the environment, facilities, student life, and overall atmosphere of the college. It’s essential to see if you can envision yourself thriving in that setting for the next few years.

4. Consider Financial Factors: Finances play a crucial role in choosing a college. Evaluate the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses. Research scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and financial aid options offered by each college. Make sure to consider the long-term financial implications of attending each institution.

5. Seek Advice and Guidance: Talk to current students, alumni, professors, counselors, or admissions officers from the colleges you are interested in. Their insights can provide valuable information about the college experience and help you make an informed decision.

6. Compare Options: Create a comparison chart or spreadsheet to compare the colleges on your list based on various factors like academics, campus life, career services, financial aid packages, and overall fit with your goals and preferences.

7. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts when making the final decision about which college to attend. Consider all the information you have gathered through research and visits but also listen to your gut feeling about where you believe you will thrive academically and personally.

By following these steps and considering all aspects of each college on your list thoroughly, you can make an informed decision about which college is the best fit for you.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

The College Board: The College Board is a non-profit organization that provides resources for students planning for higher education. They offer guidance on choosing colleges based on various factors such as academics programs and financial aid options.

U.S. News & World Report - Best Colleges Rankings: U.S. News & World Report publishes annual rankings of colleges based on factors like academic quality and student outcomes. These rankings can be a helpful resource when researching potential colleges.

National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): NACAC is an organization dedicated to supporting high school counselors and admission professionals as they guide students through the college selection process. Their resources can provide valuable insights into choosing the right college.

These sources were consulted to ensure accurate and reliable information was provided in response to the question asked by Lilianna regarding how to decide what college she wants to attend.

God Bless You,
JC.
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Sami’s Answer

I think the answers here already give a comprehensive view of the parameters that matter (academic strength, intellectual capital of faculty, location, pricing, etc). To add, I would suggest setting these up in a simple scoring model where you assign weights to each parameter, then score your different college options. You could then get a total score per school that is reflective of the things that matter to you.

At best, this will give you a somewhat scientific approach. At worst, it will tell you what you're really feeling: think of when you flip a coin and get heads instead of tails, only to then realize that tails is what you wanted. This can be similar: school X may score 8.5/10, school Y may score 7.0/10, but you realize your heart is telling you to go for school Y!

Hope this helps!!
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Renata’s Answer

Liliana,

You've asked a superb question and are standing at a significant crossroad. I suggest you start by jotting down what you expect from your college and your chosen course. It could be beneficial to select your top three colleges and delve into your preferred subject within those institutions. This approach will likely steer you towards your aspirations. My own children, when faced with this decision, had specific expectations from their chosen schools. I opted for a college within an hour's commute as I didn't want to venture too far. Your choice will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and academic interests. Remember, if you're considering a college farther from home, think about how far it is and the availability of necessities. The optimal way forward is to plan it out.

1. Location
2. Course of Study
3. Personal Study Preferences

-Renata-
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Oliver’s Answer

I'm going to echo a few of the responses above. My 1st answer is also going to take the approach of thinking about the future first.
1)Think about the area(s) you are interested in working in and figure out which schools offer strong programs (academically) or strong internship and externship programs.
2)Try and a talk to a student in said program of interests and ask specific questions (about the future) like "Do you feel prepared to move into your career?" or "Have you had career resource help to prepare you for next steps?"
3)Do this for 2 schools first (I don't want you to be overwhelmed as you're finishing high school and probably have a lot of projects and tests) and if you want to expand your horizons, add other schools or consult w/ your parents, high school counselors and teachers, or even friends that have similar career aspirations.
My second answer involves thinking about your time in college. What kind of life do you want to have outside of taking classes and preparing for life after college? Try to prioritize amongst the following (there are other options that I won't list) and again, speak to a student or an administrator about more details:
1) Do you want to travel abroad? How manageable is that within the school and specifically in the degree program you want to pursuit?
2) What kind of clubs do you want to be a part of?
3) What is the city like where the school is located? Will you feel confident navigating it with peers? Is it too far or too close to grow and develop your sense of independence?
Again, there are a lot more things to think about, and this could be new to you to consider all of these factors, and manage your current high school responsibilities. I hope this was a good start, and best wishes in your college search and college experience.
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Joanna Rose’s Answer

Hi Liliana,

Choosing a college is a big decision, and it's great that you're seeking advice. Start by identifying what's important to you in a college - this could be the courses they offer, location, campus life, or something else. Next, research potential colleges that match your criteria and compare them. If possible, visit the campuses or speak with current students to get a real feel for the place. Remember, it's about finding the right fit for you, not just choosing the most prestigious name.

1. Listen to Your Gut: After you've done all your research, check in with your feelings. Sometimes, your instinct can guide you to the right decision.

2. Consider Life Beyond Classes: Look at what the college offers outside academics like clubs, sports, or internships. These experiences can greatly enrich your college life.

3. Talk to Others: Reach out to current students or alumni. They can give you an inside perspective that you won't find in any brochure.
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Georgette’s Answer

Hello Lilianna, here's a motivating way to approach your journey:

-Start by reflecting on your passions and aspirations.

-Explore various schools, focusing on their degree offerings, accreditation, and standings.

-Compare the financial aspects, such as costs, financial aid packages, and scholarships provided by different institutions.

-Take into account the geographical location, the size of the campus, and the accommodation options available.

-Take the initiative to visit these schools, engage in conversations with current students and faculty members.

-Finally, prioritize your preferences in a way that aligns with your personal and academic goals.

Good Luck!
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Spencer’s Answer

Hi Lilianna! Deciding on a college can be exciting but challenging, as there are a lot of options! I might suggest first identifying colleges that offer programs in areas that you are interested in. From there, you can do further research into the colleges that you select to identify if they align with what you are looking for and interested in.
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Thonny’s Answer

The below is a list of considerations I made when deciding colleges from most to least importance.

1. Finances - See how much completing your desired degree would cost. For example, see if your state offers any scholarships (i.e. Georgia offers HOPE and Zell Miller to in state students above a certain GPA).
2. Program - Confirm that the college offers the degree that you want, and that graduates of that program are finding jobs/getting into post grad programs.
3. Location - See if the college is located in a city you would want to be in. (i.e. in a smaller college town or in the middle of the state capital).
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ABHISHEK’s Answer

Here's a friendly guide to help you choose the perfect college for you:
1. Start by deciding on the major you're passionate about pursuing in college.
2. Next, look for colleges that not only offer your chosen major, but also have a good reputation.
3. Don't forget to consider your financial situation. Do you need financial aid? This is often overlooked, but it's crucial to avoid stress down the line.
4. Think about whether you'd prefer to stay close to home (in-state) or explore a new area (out-of-state).
5. Most importantly, aim to pick a college that will offer you a well-rounded experience. It's not just about academics, but also about personal growth and fun!
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David’s Answer

Hi Liliana!

There are a combination of factors to consider when selecting a college/university to attend. Previous answers have covered quite a bit of them. Top priority should be to determine which colleges/universities offer the program of study that you are most interested in. Then factor in admissions requirements, costs, distance from your current home, student body & class size and how that matches to your preferences, student support services available (guidance counseling, financial aid, healthcare, etc), among others listed in previous answers. You can also decide to go to a smaller junior college or community college to take basic core classes, then transfer into a university at a later time. Be sure to check which classes/credits are transferrable to your target school. Best of luck in your search!
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Ryan’s Answer

Deciding which college to attend is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Here are some steps to help you navigate this process:

Identify your goals and priorities: Start by clarifying your academic, career, and personal goals. Consider factors such as location, size, academic programs, extracurricular activities, campus culture, and financial considerations. Make a list of your priorities to guide your decision-making process.

Research and gather information: Utilize various resources to gather information about different colleges. Explore their websites, attend college fairs, talk to current students and alumni, and read college guidebooks. Consider factors like academic reputation, faculty expertise, internship opportunities, alumni network, and available scholarships.

Visit campuses: Whenever possible, visit the campuses you are considering. Attend campus tours, sit in on classes, and talk to faculty, staff, and students. This will help you get a feel for the campus environment and determine if it aligns with your preferences and goals.

Consider financial factors: Evaluate the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses. Research financial aid options, scholarships, and grants offered by the colleges you are interested in. Think about your budget and long-term financial implications.

Seek advice and guidance: Consult with your school counselor, teachers, mentors, and family members who can provide valuable insights and guidance based on their experiences. They can help you assess your options and weigh the pros and cons of each college.

Trust your instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts and go with the college that feels like the best fit for you. Consider the academic programs, campus culture, and overall atmosphere that resonate with your personal and educational goals.

Remember, choosing a college is a personal decision, and what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you. By following these steps, you can gather the necessary information and make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations and priorities.
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Jesus’s Answer

Howdy Lilianna!

Choosing a college was one of the most difficult things I had to do being a first-generation college student. As mentioned in previous responses there are a lot of choices you will need to compare and contrast and even prioritize things. One thing I really prioritized was the cost of the college. The price can be really drastic depending on if the college is public or private. Another thing to look out for is cost of living where the college is located some cities can be more expensive to live at. Finally, the financial aid package the school may offer is something I considered and many other friends of mine when applying and accepting out decisions. Location was very important I am really family oriented and couldn't see myself living really far from my family for extended periods of time. It is up to you what you prioritize it may be cost, it may be academics whatever you decide to go with is really up to you!

Best,
Jesus
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Natalie’s Answer

Hi Lilianna

Sharing a few things that may be helpful to consider when deciding on a college:
1. Academic majors - consider if the majors and classes of a college align with what you're interested in pursuing
2. Cost of the college - consider tuition and other potential costs (e.g., housing, travel to and from school, etc.) when choosing a school
3. Location of the college - consider if the college in an area that you would be happy to live in for a few years; some may want a more traditional campus feel, while others may want to be in a city.
4. Clubs and extracurriculars - consider the opportunities outside of your courses available to you; these are great ways to get involved and meet people

Best of luck!
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Ryan’s Answer

Hi Liliana!

Many of the responses above provide great key factors to consider when choosing a college, so I'll just add a few points.

Some of the most important things to consider are how a particular college will suit your goals and interests, both academically and career-wise. It can be helpful to make a pros and cons list for each school you are considering. This may include benefits a certain school has or maybe some drawbacks the school does not have that another school might have.

You also want to make sure you feel at home with the college you choose. You are going to spend quite a bit of time at college, so you want to feel excited for all the college has to offer. If you plan on going to college far away from where you grew up, you want to choose a college that makes you feel welcome and a place where you can see yourself meeting many great people! This will make your experience that much more enjoyable.

I hope this helps!
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Diane’s Answer

Hi Lilianna - research colleges that offer the degree you are looking to major in. Keep in mind any out of state college you'll have to pay out of state tuition (more expensive vs. an in-state college). Set up a day to go visit the campus, talk with the Admissions Dept and talk with students to get a feel for the campus, student body and what the college has to offer. Best of luck!
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Aishwarya’s Answer

Choosing a college is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors. Here are some key points to consider:
1) Academic Programs: Ensure the college offers the major or program you're interested in. Consider the reputation of the program, the faculty, and the resources available to students.
2) Location: Do you prefer an urban or rural setting? Close to home or far away? Location can greatly impact your college experience.
3) Size: Would you thrive in a large university with numerous students, or do you prefer a smaller, more intimate campus setting?
4) Cost: Consider tuition, room and board, transportation, and other expenses. Don't forget to look into financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.
5) Campus Culture: This includes extracurricular activities, student organizations, athletics, and the general atmosphere of the campus. Visit the campus, if possible, to get a feel for the student life.
6) Career Services: Look at the college's career services and job placement rates. This can give you an idea of your prospects after graduation.
7) Accreditation: Accreditation is a mark of quality and can be important for certain majors or career paths.
8) Retention and Graduation Rates: These statistics can give you an idea of student satisfaction and the school's ability to help students complete their degrees.
9) Diversity: Consider the diversity of the student body if it's important for you to interact with people from various backgrounds and cultures.

Remember, the goal is to find a college that fits your personal and academic needs. Take your time, do your research, and consider visiting the campuses if possible. It's a good idea to discuss your options with teachers, counselors, family, and friends as well.
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Gashaw’s Answer

Hi Liliana! I will humbly say it's a very personal choice, and there is no wrong on right answer. Here are some considerations to account for:

Distance from Home
Cost
Size
Networking/Social Aspects
Weather
Majors/Programs

With all those considerations I think where you go to school may not be as big as deal as your work ethic, attitude, ambition, and desire to learn. When you get into the workforce, no one really asks you where you went to school unless it's just a conversation piece.

Hope this helps!
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Jenny’s Answer

Deciding on a college is a significant decision that can influence your career trajectory, personal development, and financial future. Here’s some suggestion

1. Assess Your Goals and Preferences

Academic Programs: Identify your field of interest and research colleges that offer strong programs in that area. Consider the faculty’s expertise, department resources, and opportunities for research or internships.
Career Aspirations: Look for colleges with good job placement rates, active career services, and strong industry connections that can help facilitate your entry into the workforce.
Location: Consider whether you prefer an urban or rural setting, climate, proximity to home, and the cultural environment.
Size: Think about whether you prefer a large university with a broad range of resources and activities or a smaller college that offers a more personalized experience.

2. Research and Gather Information

Visit Campuses: If possible, visit the campuses to get a feel for the environment and culture. Interact with current students and faculty.
College Websites and Virtual Tours: Utilize these resources to learn about academic programs, student life, and other relevant details.
Rankings and Reviews: Look at national and international rankings, but also read student reviews to understand different perspectives on the educational and social climate of the institutions.

3. Evaluate Academic Support and Resources

Libraries, Labs, and Facilities: Check if the college has the necessary infrastructure to support your academic interests.
Advising and Mentoring: Learn about the availability and quality of academic advising and mentoring to support student success.

4. Consider Financial Factors

Tuition and Fees: Determine the cost of education, including tuition, fees, accommodation, and other expenses.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Research available financial aid options and scholarships and understand the application process and deadlines.

5. Reflect on Social and Extracurricular Opportunities

Clubs and Organizations: Look for extracurricular activities that align with your interests. These can enhance your college experience and provide valuable networking opportunities.
Student Diversity and Inclusivity: Consider the diversity of the student body and the inclusivity of the campus culture.

6. Long-term Considerations

Alumni Network: A strong alumni network can provide lifelong career support and networking opportunities.
Postgraduate Opportunities: Consider the availability and quality of postgraduate programs if you plan to pursue further education.

7. Decision Tools and Advice

Spreadsheets and Lists: Create a comparison list or a spreadsheet to weigh various factors like program quality, costs, and personal preferences.
Counselors and Advisors: Seek advice from school counselors, current students, or college advisors who can provide insights and personal experiences.

8. Trust Your Instincts

After gathering all the information and insights, trust your instincts about where you feel you will thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Best of luck!
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Omowunmi’s Answer

Hi Lilanne, you need to have a self reflection on what are your life goals and aspirations and what you like to be. This helps is guiding through uch decision.
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Raymond’s Answer

Hello Lilianna,

Selecting a college is an exciting journey, and I'm here to help you make the best choice. Here are a few key factors to consider that could guide your decision:

1. Affordability - Consider the cost of the college. This could depend on whether it's in-state or out-of-state, private or public. Remember, the right college for you is also one that fits your budget.

2. Academic Opportunities - If you're interested in business, for example, look for colleges that offer robust business programs. Your future college should be able to support your academic aspirations.

3. Lifestyle - Think about what experiences you want from your college years. If you're passionate about sports, for example, you might want to choose a college with a vibrant sports culture.

Remember, the perfect college for you is out there. You just need to find it!

Best Wishes,
Raymond
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Su-Ting’s Answer

Hi! Some of the things I considered when choosing the college I attended was location, academic careers and campus life. For me personally, I knew I wanted to stay in California so I mainly applied to UCs, and some state and private colleges. Once I got my acceptances, it was really important for me to research the majors they had there and also what career options could come from it. I also think visiting the campus if you can is really important! I really liked my short visit to my alma mater, and I think that helped me figure out where I wanted to go to college.
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Hannah Rose’s Answer

Choosing a college can be a very hard but also exciting decision. I remember feeling very overwhelmed during the college application process with all of the amazing options available. I definitely think that visiting schools and doing a lot of research helped me narrow down my options. I made a list of attributes (location, academic program, cost, etc.) that I was looking for in a school and that really helped to guide my application process.

I also think its really important to go into the application process with an open mind- I ended up attending a university that was not even on my radar when I started my senior year of high school. The school was across the country, which was definitely a bit outside my comfort zone as I was primarily applying to schools closer to home. However, looking back, I'm so glad that I had an open mind, went to visit, and realized that it was the perfect school for me.

Best of luck!
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Pooja’s Answer

When you're choosing your college, there are several important factors to keep in mind. These might include the range of majors available, how close the college is to your family, the opportunities available after graduation, and the overall college experience. My advice is to create a short list of these crucial factors. Then, take a moment to think about them, decide which are most important to you, and plan accordingly. Remember, it's not necessary for the college you choose to tick every box. Part of the college experience is about shaping your own journey and creating a second home for yourself!
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