12 answers
Zoey
Student
Lafayette, Louisiana
1
Question
Asked
800 views
How do I find a college that's right for me?
I want to go to a university
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12 answers
Ja'nae Gordon
Student
1
Answer
Loganville, Georgia
Updated
Ja'nae’s Answer
I was in this exact position when I started thinking of applying to college, and one of the first things I did was decide on what career paths seemed most appealing to me. Do you see yourself going into research, healthcare, business, technology, etc?
Once you have that decided, it would then be helpful to think of whether you have a specific major/majors you would like to study in the future. This can be pretty difficult, so before you do this, I would reflect on which courses you have enjoyed the most in high school. For example, if you found that you really enjoyed your math and physical science courses, you may want to consider engineering, or if you enjoyed more of your natural sciences, you may want to consider majoring in something like chemistry, biology, or neuroscience. Write down what aspects of each field of study appeal to you, and that can help you in slimming down that list to your top choices.
When you have identified what professional fields, and majors of study most appeal to you, I would then move on to thinking of what type of structure you want in your education. Would you prefer to have more freedom in designing your course of undergraduate study? Then perhaps a liberal arts education is more suited for you. On the other hand, if you know you want an undergraduate education that is more specialized and tailored to your major, you can opt for a university/college with vocational programs.
Next, think of whether you want to be in-state or out-of state for college. This is important because many universities charge different tuition rates depending on your being an in-state vs. out-of-state student, so if cost of education is a principal concern for you, I would focus on your in-state schools, since those are often more affordable and provide you with more opportunities for scholarships to reduce tuition costs. If you do want to go out of state, I suggest looking for schools that are able to meet your financial needs, and are more open to accepting out-of-state students.
With all the educational/professional things out of the way, you should then move on to thinking of the environment of the college. Do you want to be in a school located in a city, or a more rural/suburban area? How much would Greek life matter to you? Athletics? Residential housing arrangements?, etc.
If you have the opportunity to, I would recommend attending as many virtual/in-person sessions offered by universities you are interested in so that you gain a better understanding of what life is like for students at those schools to see if they appeal to you, as that is where you will be spending the next four years after high school!
Once you have that decided, it would then be helpful to think of whether you have a specific major/majors you would like to study in the future. This can be pretty difficult, so before you do this, I would reflect on which courses you have enjoyed the most in high school. For example, if you found that you really enjoyed your math and physical science courses, you may want to consider engineering, or if you enjoyed more of your natural sciences, you may want to consider majoring in something like chemistry, biology, or neuroscience. Write down what aspects of each field of study appeal to you, and that can help you in slimming down that list to your top choices.
When you have identified what professional fields, and majors of study most appeal to you, I would then move on to thinking of what type of structure you want in your education. Would you prefer to have more freedom in designing your course of undergraduate study? Then perhaps a liberal arts education is more suited for you. On the other hand, if you know you want an undergraduate education that is more specialized and tailored to your major, you can opt for a university/college with vocational programs.
Next, think of whether you want to be in-state or out-of state for college. This is important because many universities charge different tuition rates depending on your being an in-state vs. out-of-state student, so if cost of education is a principal concern for you, I would focus on your in-state schools, since those are often more affordable and provide you with more opportunities for scholarships to reduce tuition costs. If you do want to go out of state, I suggest looking for schools that are able to meet your financial needs, and are more open to accepting out-of-state students.
With all the educational/professional things out of the way, you should then move on to thinking of the environment of the college. Do you want to be in a school located in a city, or a more rural/suburban area? How much would Greek life matter to you? Athletics? Residential housing arrangements?, etc.
If you have the opportunity to, I would recommend attending as many virtual/in-person sessions offered by universities you are interested in so that you gain a better understanding of what life is like for students at those schools to see if they appeal to you, as that is where you will be spending the next four years after high school!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Zoey
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 Zoey!
Discovering Your Ideal College
The choice of college is a pivotal one, with far-reaching implications for your future. Here are some actionable steps to guide you in identifying a college or university that aligns with your needs and aspirations:
1. Self-Reflection: Kick-start your search by dedicating time to introspect on your academic passions, career ambitions, desired location, ideal campus size, extracurricular interests, and other crucial factors. Gaining clarity on your college expectations will help streamline your choices.
2. Research: Investigate various colleges and universities, keeping your preferences in mind. Look into aspects like the academic programs on offer, campus vibe, student-to-faculty ratio, available resources, financial aid possibilities, and post-graduation prospects. Websites like College Board’s BigFuture, U.S. News & World Report’s College Rankings, and Princeton Review are treasure troves of useful information.
3. Visit Campuses: If feasible, tour the campuses of your shortlisted colleges. This will offer you an authentic feel of the campus ambiance, amenities, and student life. Participate in campus tours, attend classes if permitted, and engage with students and faculty to gauge if you can envision yourself flourishing there.
4. Consider Your Budget: Assess the total cost of attending each college, including tuition, accommodation, books, and other expenses. Explore scholarship opportunities and financial aid packages provided by the institutions to make a budget-conscious decision.
5. Seek Guidance: Engage with your school counselor or college advisor for advice during your college search journey. Their insights and resources can be invaluable in helping you make an informed choice.
6. Application Process: Once you've whittled down your potential colleges, thoroughly understand their admission prerequisites and deadlines. Arrange all required documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and essays well ahead of time.
7. Make Your Decision: Upon receiving acceptance letters, meticulously evaluate your options based on your research. Consider elements like academic compatibility, financial aid offers, campus atmosphere, location, and overall fit before finalizing your choice.
Remember, finding the right college is a personal journey demanding thoughtful consideration of diverse factors significant to you. Take your time to explore various options and select a college where you feel academically and personally nurtured.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
College Board’s BigFuture: This website offers extensive information about colleges and universities across the United States, helping students explore different schools based on their preferences and make informed higher education decisions.
U.S. News & World Report’s College Rankings: Renowned for its annual college and university rankings, U.S. News & World Report is a handy resource for students wishing to compare institutions based on academic quality and other criteria.
Princeton Review: Offering insights into various facets of college life, including academics, campus culture, extracurricular activities, and financial aid, the Princeton Review is a valuable resource for students seeking detailed information about different colleges and universities.
Stay Blessed,
JC.
Discovering Your Ideal College
The choice of college is a pivotal one, with far-reaching implications for your future. Here are some actionable steps to guide you in identifying a college or university that aligns with your needs and aspirations:
1. Self-Reflection: Kick-start your search by dedicating time to introspect on your academic passions, career ambitions, desired location, ideal campus size, extracurricular interests, and other crucial factors. Gaining clarity on your college expectations will help streamline your choices.
2. Research: Investigate various colleges and universities, keeping your preferences in mind. Look into aspects like the academic programs on offer, campus vibe, student-to-faculty ratio, available resources, financial aid possibilities, and post-graduation prospects. Websites like College Board’s BigFuture, U.S. News & World Report’s College Rankings, and Princeton Review are treasure troves of useful information.
3. Visit Campuses: If feasible, tour the campuses of your shortlisted colleges. This will offer you an authentic feel of the campus ambiance, amenities, and student life. Participate in campus tours, attend classes if permitted, and engage with students and faculty to gauge if you can envision yourself flourishing there.
4. Consider Your Budget: Assess the total cost of attending each college, including tuition, accommodation, books, and other expenses. Explore scholarship opportunities and financial aid packages provided by the institutions to make a budget-conscious decision.
5. Seek Guidance: Engage with your school counselor or college advisor for advice during your college search journey. Their insights and resources can be invaluable in helping you make an informed choice.
6. Application Process: Once you've whittled down your potential colleges, thoroughly understand their admission prerequisites and deadlines. Arrange all required documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), and essays well ahead of time.
7. Make Your Decision: Upon receiving acceptance letters, meticulously evaluate your options based on your research. Consider elements like academic compatibility, financial aid offers, campus atmosphere, location, and overall fit before finalizing your choice.
Remember, finding the right college is a personal journey demanding thoughtful consideration of diverse factors significant to you. Take your time to explore various options and select a college where you feel academically and personally nurtured.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
College Board’s BigFuture: This website offers extensive information about colleges and universities across the United States, helping students explore different schools based on their preferences and make informed higher education decisions.
U.S. News & World Report’s College Rankings: Renowned for its annual college and university rankings, U.S. News & World Report is a handy resource for students wishing to compare institutions based on academic quality and other criteria.
Princeton Review: Offering insights into various facets of college life, including academics, campus culture, extracurricular activities, and financial aid, the Princeton Review is a valuable resource for students seeking detailed information about different colleges and universities.
Stay Blessed,
JC.
Shetalia Bowens Lawrence
Teacher
3
Answers
Mesquite, Texas
Updated
Shetalia’s Answer
Always visit universities, do virtual campus tours if you are unable to attend and visit the colleges. The campus tours are usually online on the college sites that will direct you on what campuses offer that might interest you, hopefully this helps!
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
64
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
Hi Zoey,
Terrific question! The first step is to take some time to think about your strengths and weaknesses, as well as your interests and passions. This will help you identify potential majors that align with your skills and interests. Once you've narrowed down a few possible majors, research universities that offer strong programs in those areas. Your final decision should be based on these findings.
Terrific question! The first step is to take some time to think about your strengths and weaknesses, as well as your interests and passions. This will help you identify potential majors that align with your skills and interests. Once you've narrowed down a few possible majors, research universities that offer strong programs in those areas. Your final decision should be based on these findings.
Tiarra Hill
Teacher
43
Answers
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Updated
Tiarra’s Answer
Hi Zoey,
The right college is out here for you. As previous answered explained, seek help or advice from a college counselor by explaining what you want to study. Counslers help research colleges that gear toward what you tell them you want to study. Also, college fairs are useful because you can see what colleges offer and weigh your options. But you should also do your own research by doing Google searches for colleges based on your prospective major & career interests. Next, eliminate certain institutions by evaluating whether or not you can or want to move away. There are some colleges, like the University of Memphis and Maryville University, that offer fully online programs; this could offer flexibility and affordability.
There are potential benefits of attending in-state collehes. There's no out-of-state tuition or fees. Also, a potentially less commute to home and potential jobs. Also, you could apply for state scholarships that focus more on yiu being from a state rather than sports or academic grades.
The right college is out here for you. As previous answered explained, seek help or advice from a college counselor by explaining what you want to study. Counslers help research colleges that gear toward what you tell them you want to study. Also, college fairs are useful because you can see what colleges offer and weigh your options. But you should also do your own research by doing Google searches for colleges based on your prospective major & career interests. Next, eliminate certain institutions by evaluating whether or not you can or want to move away. There are some colleges, like the University of Memphis and Maryville University, that offer fully online programs; this could offer flexibility and affordability.
There are potential benefits of attending in-state collehes. There's no out-of-state tuition or fees. Also, a potentially less commute to home and potential jobs. Also, you could apply for state scholarships that focus more on yiu being from a state rather than sports or academic grades.
Laura Turkienicz
Consultant
23
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Hi! Finding the right college can feel overwhelming at first, but start small before making a big decision. Consider your interests, strengths and goals. What do you want to study and major in? Where do you want to live? Do you prefer a city school or a big college campus? Once deciding, start touring different universities, attend college fairs, and talk to your school counselor. Always remember to trust your instincts and choose a school where you feel comfortable and supported!
Dalvion Fields
1
Answer
Updated
Dalvion’s Answer
I believe the best way to know where you should go is to see if they have your major/program included in their curriculum, that their culture and values matches yours, and if it’s a comfortable place you feel you could live and commute in.
Factors like finances and location play a part for many people too!
Factors like finances and location play a part for many people too!
Thank you, Dalvion for the advice.
Zoey
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1858
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Different colleges have strength in different subjects. Firstly, you better find out what careers you have interest. The relevant subjects are the major and minor you can look for.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers.
E.g. 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 counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects are the major and minor you can focus
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers.
E.g. 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 counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects are the major and minor you can focus
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
176
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Hi Zoey Finding the right college involves careful consideration of various factors. Start by identifying your academic and career goals, as well as your preferred location and size of the institution. Research colleges and universities that offer programs aligned with your interests. Consider factors such as faculty expertise, campus culture, extracurricular activities, and available resources. Attend college fairs, visit campuses, and talk to current students to gain insights. Additionally, explore scholarship and financial aid options. Make a list of pros and cons for each institution, and trust your instincts when making the final decision. Remember, finding the right college is a personal journey, so prioritize what matters most to you.
Connor Adams
Technology Consultant
28
Answers
Provo, Utah
Updated
Connor’s Answer
Dear Zoey,
Choosing a program that resonates with your interests and career aspirations is a wise move. Once you've identified your career path, you'll need a program that effectively equips you for that journey. If you're still exploring career options, considering a wide range of programs offered by most universities, or planning to pursue further education after your bachelor's degree, here's a suggestion: Choose the college that feels right for you! Here are some key factors to ponder upon:
1. Will the college experience align with your expectations and contribute to your enjoyment?
2. Will the reputation and prestige of the college enhance your career prospects or further education opportunities?
3. Consider other significant aspects like cost, social circle, location, among others. If your options seem similar, relish the decision-making process and select based on the factor that holds the most weight for you. Trust your instincts; they often lead you in the right direction.
Best of luck in your journey!
Choosing a program that resonates with your interests and career aspirations is a wise move. Once you've identified your career path, you'll need a program that effectively equips you for that journey. If you're still exploring career options, considering a wide range of programs offered by most universities, or planning to pursue further education after your bachelor's degree, here's a suggestion: Choose the college that feels right for you! Here are some key factors to ponder upon:
1. Will the college experience align with your expectations and contribute to your enjoyment?
2. Will the reputation and prestige of the college enhance your career prospects or further education opportunities?
3. Consider other significant aspects like cost, social circle, location, among others. If your options seem similar, relish the decision-making process and select based on the factor that holds the most weight for you. Trust your instincts; they often lead you in the right direction.
Best of luck in your journey!
Thank you, Connor!
Zoey
Cale Corbett
Operations Management/Program Management
3
Answers
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Updated
Cale’s Answer
Zoey, in addition to the fantastic responses others have generously provided, I'd like to emphasize the importance of choosing a school that will unlock your full potential and help you flourish. This could be a place that excels in education, spirituality, community engagement, technology, or literature. The key is to find a place that aligns with who you are, what you love, and where you want to go. So, ask yourself, what makes you uniquely Zoey? And where can you go that will amplify those qualities and make you an even more vibrant Zoey?
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Zoey
Rebecca Giesecke
Program Manager for Cultural Heritage Fellowship within Rare Book School at UVA
1
Answer
Charlottesville, Virginia
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
This is a great question! With so many colleges out there, it can be tough to narrow down your options.
My first piece of advice would be to start with deciding if you want to stay within your own state or if you'd like to attend an out-of-state school. In-state tuition can be a lot less expensive than out-of-state, but it's important to understand what you would like your future to look like.
Once you find a few schools that interest you, going through and looking at all the academic programs (majors, minors, certificates, etc) would be the next best step. You don't have to know what you want to study, but look for some things that do interest you. It may even be better to initially keep an open mind when looking through areas of study, because you never know if you'll change your mind later (like I did!). Schools with a wide variety of academic programs can be helpful if you're not sure of your career path.
If you're a big planner, it can sometimes be beneficial to look for the curriculum of the study areas that interest you. While two colleges you like may offer the same major, the way they are taught or the required classes for them may be different and could affect your decision.
I'd highly recommend visiting the schools you have an interest in. A school may seem one way on paper, but completely different in person. If you're able to connect with anyone at a particular school and ask about their honest experiences, I found this was a great way to see the real day-to-day of college life.
Remember, while it may be a hassle, it is always an option to change your mind. If you decide on a school and decide it is not for you after attending it, you have the ability to transfer to another. I would advise giving your first choice "the old college try" before deciding you want to leave, as well as making sure another college will accept any credits you have already gained, but deciding on one school does not mean you must stay there forever.
I hope this is helpful!
My first piece of advice would be to start with deciding if you want to stay within your own state or if you'd like to attend an out-of-state school. In-state tuition can be a lot less expensive than out-of-state, but it's important to understand what you would like your future to look like.
Once you find a few schools that interest you, going through and looking at all the academic programs (majors, minors, certificates, etc) would be the next best step. You don't have to know what you want to study, but look for some things that do interest you. It may even be better to initially keep an open mind when looking through areas of study, because you never know if you'll change your mind later (like I did!). Schools with a wide variety of academic programs can be helpful if you're not sure of your career path.
If you're a big planner, it can sometimes be beneficial to look for the curriculum of the study areas that interest you. While two colleges you like may offer the same major, the way they are taught or the required classes for them may be different and could affect your decision.
I'd highly recommend visiting the schools you have an interest in. A school may seem one way on paper, but completely different in person. If you're able to connect with anyone at a particular school and ask about their honest experiences, I found this was a great way to see the real day-to-day of college life.
Remember, while it may be a hassle, it is always an option to change your mind. If you decide on a school and decide it is not for you after attending it, you have the ability to transfer to another. I would advise giving your first choice "the old college try" before deciding you want to leave, as well as making sure another college will accept any credits you have already gained, but deciding on one school does not mean you must stay there forever.
I hope this is helpful!