3 answers
Eli
Student
Corvallis, Montana
1
Question
Updated
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How do I know when a college is right for me?
I often have so many options when applying for my colleges, and can never really hone in on what is important in the application process.
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3 answers
Jarrel Thomas
Senior Support Engineer
11
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Jarrel’s Answer
Hey Eli,
Great question and love that you have this insight into your career so early on. I would say that best thing to do right not is to sit down and write out your career plan of what you want to do. List at least 3 or 4 fields you want to work in, it does not have to be a specific title just the industry.
Then write out what you like about those industries and what you motivation is for going into them. Side note: If it's for money or recognition I would avoid those fields as often times those become a burden when you are motivated by the wrong things.
Once you have your fields you can start writing out what you like about the field (specific tasks you like) and your own strengths that may align with it.
After you have all that written out I would say then you can do some research. Start searching for job in those fields with those tasks you like and strengths you have. Try to find at least 20 or so job titles across all 3 of those fields. Then narrow down the list to a top 5 you would really like to apply for.
Once you have your top 5 you can ask yourself the important question "How can I get this job without going to college?"
Really think out about it, research it and try plan out everyway you can to avoid college to get the job you want. If you can't figure it out, then you've narrowed down if college is right for you.
Great question and love that you have this insight into your career so early on. I would say that best thing to do right not is to sit down and write out your career plan of what you want to do. List at least 3 or 4 fields you want to work in, it does not have to be a specific title just the industry.
Then write out what you like about those industries and what you motivation is for going into them. Side note: If it's for money or recognition I would avoid those fields as often times those become a burden when you are motivated by the wrong things.
Once you have your fields you can start writing out what you like about the field (specific tasks you like) and your own strengths that may align with it.
After you have all that written out I would say then you can do some research. Start searching for job in those fields with those tasks you like and strengths you have. Try to find at least 20 or so job titles across all 3 of those fields. Then narrow down the list to a top 5 you would really like to apply for.
Once you have your top 5 you can ask yourself the important question "How can I get this job without going to college?"
Really think out about it, research it and try plan out everyway you can to avoid college to get the job you want. If you can't figure it out, then you've narrowed down if college is right for you.
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Eli. The best way to decide is to focus on the things that matter to you. You need to think about what you want to study or what subjects you enjoy. You don't have to know your exact career yet, but having a general idea can help you pick colleges that offer strong programs in those areas. If you are still exploring your interests, you can look for schools that let you try different classes before choosing a major. A good college will help you learn more about yourself and prepare for your future.
Next, you need to think about the kind of environment where you will feel comfortable and happy. Do you want a big school with lots of people and activities, or a smaller school where everyone knows each other? Do you want to stay close to home or move somewhere new?
Money is also a very important part of the decision. You need to look at the tuition costs and the types of financial help, like scholarships or grants, that each school offers. A college that seems too expensive at first might become affordable if they give you good financial aid. Make sure you think about the total costs, including housing, food, books, and transportation.
Support services are another thing to look for. You need to check whether the college offers help with tutoring, job planning, mental health, or anything else you might need. It's important to know the school will support you both academically and personally. All the best.
Next, you need to think about the kind of environment where you will feel comfortable and happy. Do you want a big school with lots of people and activities, or a smaller school where everyone knows each other? Do you want to stay close to home or move somewhere new?
Money is also a very important part of the decision. You need to look at the tuition costs and the types of financial help, like scholarships or grants, that each school offers. A college that seems too expensive at first might become affordable if they give you good financial aid. Make sure you think about the total costs, including housing, food, books, and transportation.
Support services are another thing to look for. You need to check whether the college offers help with tutoring, job planning, mental health, or anything else you might need. It's important to know the school will support you both academically and personally. All the best.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
This is a great question. I would say if a college degree will help you get a specific job you want or is needed within an industry, then college will be beneficial. If you are looking at jobs that can be started without a degree, you could always take a class or two along the way, so maybe just jump into work.
I think it can be worth going to a community college at least and getting a two year degree. That will let you do all of your prerequisites and some electives. You may just find something within those electives that you enjoy.
I think it can be worth going to a community college at least and getting a two year degree. That will let you do all of your prerequisites and some electives. You may just find something within those electives that you enjoy.