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What advice is best before deciding which college I want to attend?
I want to know what are the best things to do in high school before attending college
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6 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
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Paul’s Answer
Hi Usman,
I always encourage students to go on a college tour and attend an orientation before deciding to enroll. These experiences are incredibly valuable. During orientation, you'll discover important campus resources, learn how to register for classes, and get the chance to meet professors and fellow students.
While some orientations are online, I highly recommend visiting in person. It gives you a real feel for the campus environment, helping you see if it's the right fit for you. It's also a fantastic opportunity to connect with others and imagine what living on campus might be like.
If you ever face any challenges, these sessions will show you where to find help and support. This will make your transition to college smoother and set you on the path to achieving your academic and career goals. Be sure to take advantage of college tours and orientations!
I always encourage students to go on a college tour and attend an orientation before deciding to enroll. These experiences are incredibly valuable. During orientation, you'll discover important campus resources, learn how to register for classes, and get the chance to meet professors and fellow students.
While some orientations are online, I highly recommend visiting in person. It gives you a real feel for the campus environment, helping you see if it's the right fit for you. It's also a fantastic opportunity to connect with others and imagine what living on campus might be like.
If you ever face any challenges, these sessions will show you where to find help and support. This will make your transition to college smoother and set you on the path to achieving your academic and career goals. Be sure to take advantage of college tours and orientations!
Updated
Britni’s Answer
Hi Usman -
Great question! Before deciding which college to attend, I recommend thinking about the degree you are interested in pursuing. Some schools are better known for specific programs or fields of study, which may help guide your decision.
I would also encourage you to apply to multiple schools, then visit the campuses and ask as many questions as you can. This can help you find the best fit and make the decision that is right for you.
Great question! Before deciding which college to attend, I recommend thinking about the degree you are interested in pursuing. Some schools are better known for specific programs or fields of study, which may help guide your decision.
I would also encourage you to apply to multiple schools, then visit the campuses and ask as many questions as you can. This can help you find the best fit and make the decision that is right for you.
Updated
Jezlea’s Answer
The most important thing you can do before deciding on a college is visit the campuses you are seriously considering, not just virtually but in person if at all possible. A school can look perfect on paper and feel completely wrong the moment you walk around it, and the reverse is equally true. Pay attention to how you feel on campus, whether you can see yourself thriving in that environment, and whether the students and culture feel like a genuine fit for who you are rather than who you think you should be.
Beyond visiting, research the specific programs, professors, and opportunities available in your area of interest rather than evaluating schools purely on overall reputation or ranking. A school ranked lower overall might have an exceptional program in your specific field with better internship connections, more hands-on opportunities, and stronger alumni networks in the industry you are targeting. Financial aid packages also vary dramatically between schools of similar quality so comparing actual out of pocket costs after aid is just as important as comparing academic reputation.
In terms of what to do in high school to prepare yourself broadly, build strong study habits, get involved in activities that genuinely matter to you rather than padding your resume with things that don't, take challenging courses that push your thinking, and start having real conversations with people working in careers that interest you. College is a significant investment of time and money and the students who get the most out of it are the ones who arrive with some sense of direction, genuine curiosity, and the discipline to take advantage of every opportunity the experience offers.
Beyond visiting, research the specific programs, professors, and opportunities available in your area of interest rather than evaluating schools purely on overall reputation or ranking. A school ranked lower overall might have an exceptional program in your specific field with better internship connections, more hands-on opportunities, and stronger alumni networks in the industry you are targeting. Financial aid packages also vary dramatically between schools of similar quality so comparing actual out of pocket costs after aid is just as important as comparing academic reputation.
In terms of what to do in high school to prepare yourself broadly, build strong study habits, get involved in activities that genuinely matter to you rather than padding your resume with things that don't, take challenging courses that push your thinking, and start having real conversations with people working in careers that interest you. College is a significant investment of time and money and the students who get the most out of it are the ones who arrive with some sense of direction, genuine curiosity, and the discipline to take advantage of every opportunity the experience offers.
Updated
Samantha’s Answer
One of my biggest pieces of advice is to go a step further than just touring the schools you’re interested in! If you have a friend or family member who attends, see if you can spend a day or weekend with them. That can give you a much better feel for what everyday life is actually like there.
You can also use LinkedIn to set up quick “coffee chats” with current students who are studying a major you’re interested in. Ask them what they like, what they wish they knew before choosing the school, and what their experience has actually been like.
Also think about the kind of social life you want! Do you want a big sports culture? Greek life? A city environment? A smaller campus where everyone knows each other? Academics are obviously important, but you’re also choosing where you’ll be living and building your life for the next four years. Try to picture where you can genuinely see yourself being happy and getting involved!
You can also use LinkedIn to set up quick “coffee chats” with current students who are studying a major you’re interested in. Ask them what they like, what they wish they knew before choosing the school, and what their experience has actually been like.
Also think about the kind of social life you want! Do you want a big sports culture? Greek life? A city environment? A smaller campus where everyone knows each other? Academics are obviously important, but you’re also choosing where you’ll be living and building your life for the next four years. Try to picture where you can genuinely see yourself being happy and getting involved!
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Before choosing a college, you should take time to think about what you want from your college experience. Consider your interests, possible majors, career goals, location, campus size, and the type of learning environment you prefer.
In high school, focus on building strong study habits and keeping your grades as high as possible. Take challenging classes that match your abilities, especially in subjects related to your interests. Good time management and organization skills will also make the transition to college easier.
You can also try different activities outside the classroom. Join clubs, sports, volunteer programs, or other activities that interest you. These experiences can help you discover your strengths, meet new people, and learn skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication.
Before applying, research different colleges carefully. Visit campuses if you can, attend information sessions, talk to current students, and compare programs, costs, housing, and student life.
In high school, focus on building strong study habits and keeping your grades as high as possible. Take challenging classes that match your abilities, especially in subjects related to your interests. Good time management and organization skills will also make the transition to college easier.
You can also try different activities outside the classroom. Join clubs, sports, volunteer programs, or other activities that interest you. These experiences can help you discover your strengths, meet new people, and learn skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication.
Before applying, research different colleges carefully. Visit campuses if you can, attend information sessions, talk to current students, and compare programs, costs, housing, and student life.
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Go attend a career fair and meet with your teachers and guidance counselor. Write down what you are interested in.