10 answers
Olivia
Student
San Jacinto, California
1
Question
Asked
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How do I find the college for me?
How do I find the college for me
1.Try to get one close to your house
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10 answers
Brooke Jones
Product Management
31
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Brooke’s Answer
When you're on the hunt for the perfect college, there's a lot to think about. You'll want to look at what courses they offer, where the college is located, what the campus vibe is like, how big or small it is, how much it's going to cost, and what kind of financial help is available. Also, think about the extra stuff they offer, like clubs, sports, and career guidance. Most importantly, think about what fits best with your own goals, how you learn best, and what you dream of doing in the future.
Just a little friendly advice: If you're not sure yet what you want to be, don't sweat it. I'm still figuring it out myself, but I'm just going with the flow and enjoying the journey. What I've found helpful is to focus on a subject that I really enjoy. Then, I explore the opportunities related to that subject and do some digging into what I could do with it. Remember, if you choose something now and decide to switch later, it's never too late to follow your passion. Trust your instincts and remember to have a blast!
Just a little friendly advice: If you're not sure yet what you want to be, don't sweat it. I'm still figuring it out myself, but I'm just going with the flow and enjoying the journey. What I've found helpful is to focus on a subject that I really enjoy. Then, I explore the opportunities related to that subject and do some digging into what I could do with it. Remember, if you choose something now and decide to switch later, it's never too late to follow your passion. Trust your instincts and remember to have a blast!
Stacy Fernandez , MBA, MSW
Global Customer Success Executive
9
Answers
Temecula, California
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
There are several things to consider:
Location - Do you want to go abroad, stay local, or be in a different state from where you grew up?
Program: Find schools with your desired program. If not sure, you could also leverage assistance from a school counselor, friends, or family members to help narrow down options.
Culture of school: Research the culture of the school. Make sure that it's a fit for what you are trying to accomplish and values.
Financial: This is also important. Look at scholarships, state funding, community programs. Remember, you can always start at a junior college and then transfer. The journey doesn't matter, as long as you get there. Meaning, no one cares if you transfer from a JC. What matters is the paper in your hands when you graduate. :)
Best of luck to you!
Location - Do you want to go abroad, stay local, or be in a different state from where you grew up?
Program: Find schools with your desired program. If not sure, you could also leverage assistance from a school counselor, friends, or family members to help narrow down options.
Culture of school: Research the culture of the school. Make sure that it's a fit for what you are trying to accomplish and values.
Financial: This is also important. Look at scholarships, state funding, community programs. Remember, you can always start at a junior college and then transfer. The journey doesn't matter, as long as you get there. Meaning, no one cares if you transfer from a JC. What matters is the paper in your hands when you graduate. :)
Best of luck to you!
Jodie Camba
sales representative, SMRA
2
Answers
Cherry Hill, New Jersey
Updated
Jodie’s Answer
Hello Olivia!
Selecting the right college is a decision influenced by numerous elements. If you're feeling uncertain about a specific career path, don't hesitate to take a career test. It's a great tool to gain a clearer picture of where you might thrive. Always remember to closely examine your preferred program at each college, paying special attention to their requirements. Don't forget, financial aid is also an important consideration. Above all, trust your instincts. When all is said and done, you'll be grateful to yourself for making a thoughtful decision.
Selecting the right college is a decision influenced by numerous elements. If you're feeling uncertain about a specific career path, don't hesitate to take a career test. It's a great tool to gain a clearer picture of where you might thrive. Always remember to closely examine your preferred program at each college, paying special attention to their requirements. Don't forget, financial aid is also an important consideration. Above all, trust your instincts. When all is said and done, you'll be grateful to yourself for making a thoughtful decision.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
616
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Olivia,
There are definitely pros and cons to consider when choosing a college near your house. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if it's the right approach for you:
Pros of a college close to home:
1. Cost: In-state tuition can be significantly cheaper than out-of-state tuition. You might be able to live at home, saving on room and board.
2. Convenience: Being close to family and friends allows for easier visits and support. No need to adjust to a completely new environment.
3. Support System: You'll have a familiar support system close by if you need help or just want to spend time with loved ones.
Cons of a college close to home:
1. Independence: You might miss out on the chance to develop independence and explore a new place.
2. Limited opportunities: The college might not offer your desired program or have the same level of resources or activities as a larger school further away.
3. Social life: You might run into the same people you know from high school, potentially limiting your exposure to new people and experiences.
Finding colleges near you:
If you decide a college close to home is a good fit, here are some resources to help you find them:
1. Search engines: Use Google Maps or https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ with your zip code to find colleges in your area.
2. State websites: Many states have a higher education department website that lists colleges within the state.
3. Community colleges: Consider community colleges that offer two-year degrees or transfer programs to four-year universities.
Remember: Finding the right college is about more than just location. Consider factors like academic programs, campus life, size, cost, and financial aid.
Best wishes!
There are definitely pros and cons to consider when choosing a college near your house. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if it's the right approach for you:
Pros of a college close to home:
1. Cost: In-state tuition can be significantly cheaper than out-of-state tuition. You might be able to live at home, saving on room and board.
2. Convenience: Being close to family and friends allows for easier visits and support. No need to adjust to a completely new environment.
3. Support System: You'll have a familiar support system close by if you need help or just want to spend time with loved ones.
Cons of a college close to home:
1. Independence: You might miss out on the chance to develop independence and explore a new place.
2. Limited opportunities: The college might not offer your desired program or have the same level of resources or activities as a larger school further away.
3. Social life: You might run into the same people you know from high school, potentially limiting your exposure to new people and experiences.
Finding colleges near you:
If you decide a college close to home is a good fit, here are some resources to help you find them:
1. Search engines: Use Google Maps or https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/ with your zip code to find colleges in your area.
2. State websites: Many states have a higher education department website that lists colleges within the state.
3. Community colleges: Consider community colleges that offer two-year degrees or transfer programs to four-year universities.
Remember: Finding the right college is about more than just location. Consider factors like academic programs, campus life, size, cost, and financial aid.
Best wishes!
Daniil Turpitka
Software Engineering
4
Answers
Sunnyvale, California
Updated
Daniil’s Answer
Firstly, determine the academic major you wish to follow. Remember, various colleges excel in different areas of study. For instance, while some institutions may have outstanding computer science programs, their social science offerings might not be up to par. Therefore, select a college that is renowned for your specific major.
Investigate aspects such as the campus environment, success of past students, and geographical location of the college. Reflect on how significant each of these factors is to your overall college experience.
If you're entering college as an undeclared major due to uncertainty about your future course of study, it's wise to avoid accumulating debt. Opt for a local institution or one that has offered you a scholarship. This approach will allow you to explore your interests without the burden of financial stress.
Investigate aspects such as the campus environment, success of past students, and geographical location of the college. Reflect on how significant each of these factors is to your overall college experience.
If you're entering college as an undeclared major due to uncertainty about your future course of study, it's wise to avoid accumulating debt. Opt for a local institution or one that has offered you a scholarship. This approach will allow you to explore your interests without the burden of financial stress.
Mehmet Adsan
College Counselor
3
Answers
Kampala, Central Region, Uganda
Updated
Mehmet’s Answer
To find the right college for you, start by deciding on the program you would like to pursue. If you are unsure about your interests, consider taking a career test to better understand yourself. Next, list the colleges that offer your desired program. Check the availability of your chosen program at each college and ensure you meet their requirements. Based on this information, shortlist the universities you are eligible to apply to. I wish you success in your college search.
Eric Wen
ML Intern @ Synopsys
3
Answers
Berkeley, California
Updated
Eric’s Answer
The responses above are insightful, but I'd like to propose an additional step. After you've selected a few schools that grab your attention, don't hesitate to contact current students for a brief 10-minute online chat over coffee. Inquire about the workload, tips for applications, the social scene, student groups, research possibilities, and overall growth opportunities in your chosen field. This will give you a more personal and practical perspective.
Jazmine Brownlow
Human Resources Profressional
4
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Jazmine’s Answer
Consider the academic path or discipline you're drawn towards and explore universities known for their excellence in that particular field. It's crucial to evaluate the financial aspect of your education, including the tuition fees and potential scholarships or financial aid available. This could significantly influence your decision! It's also a good idea to visit some of your shortlisted colleges to experience the campus vibe and interact with the student community. Reflecting on the following questions could further assist in your college selection process:
Would I thrive better in a smaller or larger classroom setting?
Do I prefer attending classes physically or virtually?
Bear in mind, you always have the option to switch colleges if your initial choice doesn't meet your expectations. So, don't stress too much about making the perfect choice right away.
Would I thrive better in a smaller or larger classroom setting?
Do I prefer attending classes physically or virtually?
Bear in mind, you always have the option to switch colleges if your initial choice doesn't meet your expectations. So, don't stress too much about making the perfect choice right away.
Jerome Joseph
Senior Program Manager
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Hi Olivia!
Great question and there has been some amazing advice given already. I would add on by encouraging you to visit the campuses that you are interested in. I went to college in Washington, DC and being in a major-ish city was a big factor for me. If you can't visit the campus physically, there are a lot of resources out there to do virtual tours as well.
Great question and there has been some amazing advice given already. I would add on by encouraging you to visit the campuses that you are interested in. I went to college in Washington, DC and being in a major-ish city was a big factor for me. If you can't visit the campus physically, there are a lot of resources out there to do virtual tours as well.
Felicia Lambert
Senior Manager Clinical Quality
2
Answers
Banning, California
Updated
Felicia’s Answer
Complete an education assessment to identify your personal talents, and education goals.