How to Pick a College
Narrow the Choices of Schools to Attend
Colleges in the United States offer a variety of majors and training. Many colleges offer the same majors, so high school students have a difficult time even starting the college selection process. With a few helpful suggestions, high school students can start identifying schools that will meet their needs.
Identifying a College Major
Many high school students do not have a definitive idea of the major they will study; however, having an idea of potential majors will be beneficial. For example, students interested in majoring in marine biology can immediately narrow college choices from 3000 to 110. Students should look for colleges that offer all of their intended majors, so the student can take a variety of classes to test each out.
Location of Campus
Even if a college has a great educational reputation, students should also consider where the campus is located. Colleges located in a large or major city will have transportation, entertainment, and activity. Crime may also be at an increase. Colleges located in rural areas will have limited resources, and students usually have to create their own entertainment and activities.
Another aspect to consider is the geographic location of where the college is. Students who dislike winters will not enjoy living in the northern states during the school year; however, snowboarders and skiers will embrace the winters.
Type of College
When referring to colleges there are three distinct types: public, private, and private affiliated with a religion. Similar to public high schools, public colleges and universities offer an education funded primarily through the state/government. Students attending a state college within their state of residency can receive tuition rates at a considerable reduction.
Private colleges and universities are funded through private means and alumni support. Often times these colleges are more expensive than state schools since they offer a smaller, more limited enrollment. However, private schools usually have larger endowments which allow for more scholarships to students in need.
College Sports and Clubs
On campus activities add to the experience of college. Some students may decide that they would like to play for the school’s varsity team. Colleges are classified for sports according to size of the school. The classes are Division I, Division II, and Division III. Division I and II schools usually provide tuition scholarships for students on the varsity team.
For students not interested in varsity sports, they can participate in other activities on campus. Some examples include speech and debate, theatre, intramural sports, resident hall governing boards, and major specific clubs.
Special Opportunities
In order to attract certain students, colleges may offer special programming. One such program is studying abroad. For the cost of tuition, students can travel outside of the United States to observe different cultures and ideas. Student can spend a month, semester, and sometimes a year living in another country for the cost of tuition.
Some schools update laboratories and secure funding for research. Often times students are able to participate on research projects. This is especially true for students studying sciences and engineering.
One further program is internships. Colleges partner with local companies and businesses to provide students with an internship in certain fields. This opportunity allows students to gain valuable on-the-job experience and to apply their education.
Overall, choosing a college can be overwhelming if a student does not have an action plan. Identifying elements the colleges offer can help a student narrow college choices. Because students will be spending at least four years at the school, compatibility is key. For further assistance, students can access online college search engines.
Choosing a College
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Education & Career
Latest Articles