With more than 3,500 higher-education institutions across the United States, it’s no wonder that choosing the right college can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, you can make this important decision easier by knowing what you want to get out of your college experience. Consider these criteria to help you select the best school for your needs.
1.Academic requirements and degree programs offered How academically challenging is the college? Where do you fall in the admission standards? Does the school have the program(s) you are interested in pursuing? How good is the program department compared to other colleges?
2. Size and type Are you looking for a large, medium, or small college? A 4-year university, two-year community college, or technical college? Public or private? Would you like to attend a historically black university, an all-women’s college, or a school that is religiously based?
3. Location and cost Do you want to go out of state or stay close to home? (Out-of-state schools tend to cost more unless you have residential status.) Do you want to live on campus or commute? Live in a big city or a rural community? How much are you willing to pay per year to attend the college of your choice? What kinds of scholarships and financial aid are available?
4. Reputation and successful alumni Do you want to attend a prestigious school? What kind of career success do the alumni have? What do people who have graduated from there have to say about their experience? For what is the school best known?
5. Extracurricular and community involvement Do you desire to be involved in athletic programs, debate clubs, leadership organizations, etc? What kind of programs are sponsored that include the college and surrounding community?
6. The big picture Remember that you are looking for an overall fit. Decide early on if you want a personal or impersonal college experience to help you determine the size of school you’d consider. Large colleges usually have more activities, but also larger classes than small colleges. Small schools may have fewer events but more intimate relationships with faculty and staff.
To find out if a particular college fits you, talk to current students of the college to find out the real deal. Research the college’s Web site, visit the campus and take a tour.
7.Use the Web The Internet will let you virtually visit every school of your choice. Listed below are some Web sites to help you with your decision: www.bestschoolsusa.com Tips on school selection and admission process. www.campustours.com Links to virtual tours, interactive campus maps, Webcams and campus pictures. www.collegeispossible.org Information on preparing for, paying for and choosing the right college. www.collegeprofiles.com Summaries highlighting academic programs, athletics and admission information. www.collegeview.com Virtual campus tours, college profiles and career counseling. www.eguidancecounselor.com Advice on college selection, application, and admission process. www.embark.com College search, advice and online applications. www.icollege.com Links on internships, careers and universities for prospective students. www.collegequest.com Includes articles, a database of schools and financial aid. www.unnews.com/usnews/edu See national rankings, apply online or find a scholarship.
