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Honorine
Student
Dwight, Illinois
3
Questions
Asked
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How do I know what college to go to if I don't much preferences about my college?
I want to find a good school but I don't know what my preferences are. I know I don't want to be near my home but that's about it. It's hard looking for a school not knowing what you're going to major in. what do you suggest?
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4 answers
Paul Rashley
2
Answers
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Hello!
It's perfectly okay not to know what you want to be when you grow up. I still don't know what I want to be. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Try to stay in your state for at least the first two years of college, as out-of-state tuition can be much higher. The first two years cover essential basics, so don't worry too much about declaring a major right away. While you're in college, make sure to network and ask questions—you're already on your way to finding the right path.
Your main focus should be on your academics, so aim for good or even great grades. Counselors in the administration office are valuable resources, so reach out to them for advice and information on scholarships and grants. Keep your eyes on the big picture and start narrowing down the industries or fields that interest you, like medicine or computer science.
You'll do great—just keep those grades up! And remember, choosing your friends wisely is important, so be selective. You've got this!
It's perfectly okay not to know what you want to be when you grow up. I still don't know what I want to be. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Try to stay in your state for at least the first two years of college, as out-of-state tuition can be much higher. The first two years cover essential basics, so don't worry too much about declaring a major right away. While you're in college, make sure to network and ask questions—you're already on your way to finding the right path.
Your main focus should be on your academics, so aim for good or even great grades. Counselors in the administration office are valuable resources, so reach out to them for advice and information on scholarships and grants. Keep your eyes on the big picture and start narrowing down the industries or fields that interest you, like medicine or computer science.
You'll do great—just keep those grades up! And remember, choosing your friends wisely is important, so be selective. You've got this!
Larry Siegel
Government Liaison, Non-profit fundraising, Non-profit operation
36
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Larry’s Answer
Honorine -- there are probably two questions you need to answer about a college you might attend. First, does it have a good reputation for academics. Second, does it have a welcoming environment.
The first question is somewhat easy to answer. The U.S. News and World Report college rankings lists 220 colleges and universities. These schools are rated based on academic, financial and social standards. There is a list of national universities and other lists of colleges and universities in various regions. These ratings can give you a general idea of the quality almost any school you are thinking about.
What about the welcoming environment? This is a harder one to investigate. One way is to search for comments on the Internet of graduates of a particular school. Another way is to visit the school, and even spend the night there. Several colleges and universities have overnight programs that allow you to get an idea of what life is like there. This brief stay allows you to get a feeling about how well you would like living at that school for four years.
There is also the consideration of attending a large university or a small college. Each has its qualities, In a smaller school you can quickly feel part of the college community. It is also true that in a large university you can find small corners that feel very much like life in a small school. By this I mean that you can find your own group of friends and your own favorite areas of the campus. You can make your own world in the middle of a large school.
Most will stay and graduate from the college or university they choose to attend. But in the worst case, you can transfer to another school if you are very unhappy with the school you have chosen. This is unlikely. Just about any quality college or university has more things to like than to dislike.
The first question is somewhat easy to answer. The U.S. News and World Report college rankings lists 220 colleges and universities. These schools are rated based on academic, financial and social standards. There is a list of national universities and other lists of colleges and universities in various regions. These ratings can give you a general idea of the quality almost any school you are thinking about.
What about the welcoming environment? This is a harder one to investigate. One way is to search for comments on the Internet of graduates of a particular school. Another way is to visit the school, and even spend the night there. Several colleges and universities have overnight programs that allow you to get an idea of what life is like there. This brief stay allows you to get a feeling about how well you would like living at that school for four years.
There is also the consideration of attending a large university or a small college. Each has its qualities, In a smaller school you can quickly feel part of the college community. It is also true that in a large university you can find small corners that feel very much like life in a small school. By this I mean that you can find your own group of friends and your own favorite areas of the campus. You can make your own world in the middle of a large school.
Most will stay and graduate from the college or university they choose to attend. But in the worst case, you can transfer to another school if you are very unhappy with the school you have chosen. This is unlikely. Just about any quality college or university has more things to like than to dislike.
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1333
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Honorine!
First off, you’re not alone in this—so many students start the college search without having a clear idea of what they want, and that’s totally fine. College is about figuring things out, not just showing up with everything perfectly planned.
Since you don’t have strong preferences yet (other than getting away from home—respectable move), here are a few ways to narrow things down:
1. Start with Location & Vibe
Do you want a big city with tons of energy, or a smaller town with a close-knit feel? Love the idea of four seasons, or do you want to escape winter forever? If you’re unsure, visit different types of campuses—urban, rural, big, small—to get a feel for what clicks with you.
2. Size Matters
Large universities mean tons of majors, activities, and people, but can feel overwhelming. Smaller colleges are more personal but might have fewer options. If you’re unsure, a mid-sized school (5,000-15,000 students) could be a safe bet.
3. Flexibility for the Undecided
Look for schools that don’t force you to declare a major right away and have a strong variety of programs. Liberal arts colleges and universities with exploratory tracks let you test different subjects before committing.
4. Affordability & Scholarships
If you’re open to different schools, let money be a deciding factor. In-state schools are usually cheaper, but out-of-state tuition waivers and scholarships can make some distant schools affordable too. Start looking into financial aid options early!
5. Social Life & Extracurriculars
Not all learning happens in the classroom. What do you like to do outside of studying? Sports, arts, clubs, Greek life, research opportunities? Check if the schools you’re considering offer things that match your interests.
6. Visit, If You Can!
Walking around campus, talking to students, sitting in a lecture—it’s the best way to get a real feel for a school. If you can’t visit in person, many colleges offer virtual tours and student Q&A panels.
Final Thought
You don’t need all the answers now. Pick a school that gives you options and feels like a place you’d be excited to explore. Once you’re there, take different classes, meet new people, and figure things out as you go. The best choice is the one that keeps doors open for your future self.
You got this! Wishing you the best in your college search—go find your future home!
First off, you’re not alone in this—so many students start the college search without having a clear idea of what they want, and that’s totally fine. College is about figuring things out, not just showing up with everything perfectly planned.
Since you don’t have strong preferences yet (other than getting away from home—respectable move), here are a few ways to narrow things down:
1. Start with Location & Vibe
Do you want a big city with tons of energy, or a smaller town with a close-knit feel? Love the idea of four seasons, or do you want to escape winter forever? If you’re unsure, visit different types of campuses—urban, rural, big, small—to get a feel for what clicks with you.
2. Size Matters
Large universities mean tons of majors, activities, and people, but can feel overwhelming. Smaller colleges are more personal but might have fewer options. If you’re unsure, a mid-sized school (5,000-15,000 students) could be a safe bet.
3. Flexibility for the Undecided
Look for schools that don’t force you to declare a major right away and have a strong variety of programs. Liberal arts colleges and universities with exploratory tracks let you test different subjects before committing.
4. Affordability & Scholarships
If you’re open to different schools, let money be a deciding factor. In-state schools are usually cheaper, but out-of-state tuition waivers and scholarships can make some distant schools affordable too. Start looking into financial aid options early!
5. Social Life & Extracurriculars
Not all learning happens in the classroom. What do you like to do outside of studying? Sports, arts, clubs, Greek life, research opportunities? Check if the schools you’re considering offer things that match your interests.
6. Visit, If You Can!
Walking around campus, talking to students, sitting in a lecture—it’s the best way to get a real feel for a school. If you can’t visit in person, many colleges offer virtual tours and student Q&A panels.
Final Thought
You don’t need all the answers now. Pick a school that gives you options and feels like a place you’d be excited to explore. Once you’re there, take different classes, meet new people, and figure things out as you go. The best choice is the one that keeps doors open for your future self.
You got this! Wishing you the best in your college search—go find your future home!
Braelee Hernandez
Student (pre- physical therapy)
5
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Braelee’s Answer
Hey there! I am a current student, freshman to be exact, at the University of Texas! First of all, it is totally fine that you do not know what you want to major in and there are plenty of schools everywhere. Keep in mind, that many schools actually have undeclared majors which lets you pick your major later on after taking classes and seeing what you end up enjoying. If you’re unsure about your preferences and major, that’s totally okay! Here’s a structured way to narrow down your options and find a college that fits you.
You could start with broad factors. Since you know you don’t want to be near home, start by considering: size, climate, great academic support, campus life, and keeping an open mind! To further explain, think about how big of a school you want to be at, (large or big campus), and climate (do you like it when it's hot, cold, rainy, snowy, etc.). You do want to look at great academic schools that have a variety of programs for you to choose from and also look at schools that have a great support system for you such as great academic advising, tutoring, etc. You may also want to consider campus life and their culture. Think about what kind of experience you want...do you like a strong sports culture, various club organizations, or more social scenes?
Once you find a couple of colleges you find interest in, try to visit them to see if you know you like or do not like them, but also keep an open mind with this process. You might end up liking a school you never even thought of until now! Lastly, go to a school that makes you feel comfortable, excited, safe, and at home. Do not feel discouraged! You got this!
You could start with broad factors. Since you know you don’t want to be near home, start by considering: size, climate, great academic support, campus life, and keeping an open mind! To further explain, think about how big of a school you want to be at, (large or big campus), and climate (do you like it when it's hot, cold, rainy, snowy, etc.). You do want to look at great academic schools that have a variety of programs for you to choose from and also look at schools that have a great support system for you such as great academic advising, tutoring, etc. You may also want to consider campus life and their culture. Think about what kind of experience you want...do you like a strong sports culture, various club organizations, or more social scenes?
Once you find a couple of colleges you find interest in, try to visit them to see if you know you like or do not like them, but also keep an open mind with this process. You might end up liking a school you never even thought of until now! Lastly, go to a school that makes you feel comfortable, excited, safe, and at home. Do not feel discouraged! You got this!