4 answers
aspen
Student
Havertown, Pennsylvania
1
Question
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How do you know which college is the one for you And what is the difference between universities and college? it's been a nagging question I've had for a while now ?
Any help will be appreciated.
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4 answers
Dhimant Korant
IT Product Manager
50
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Dhimant’s Answer
To address the initial part of your query - How can you determine the ideal college for you?
Here's a motivating approach: Begin with identifying your passion. Let's say you're intrigued by product management and aspire to enhance your abilities in this field. Start by seeking out universities that provide opportunities for career growth in this particular domain through comprehensive learning experiences. Compile a list of institutions offering programs in product management. Evaluate them by weighing the pros and cons, keeping in mind your personal preferences such as the city, living conditions, commute, transportation, and cost of living. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
Here's a motivating approach: Begin with identifying your passion. Let's say you're intrigued by product management and aspire to enhance your abilities in this field. Start by seeking out universities that provide opportunities for career growth in this particular domain through comprehensive learning experiences. Compile a list of institutions offering programs in product management. Evaluate them by weighing the pros and cons, keeping in mind your personal preferences such as the city, living conditions, commute, transportation, and cost of living. This will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
You will have to look to see which campus has the resources you need to achieve your goals.
Does it have your major? What kind of resources does it have to support your education? What about living accomodations? Does it have a good library and study resources? What about student activities? Is it within an acceptable distance of home and your support network? Are classes taught by the actual professor or by a teaching assistant? These are elements to look at.
I have observed that most state intitutions are universities, while smaller or private ones are colleges. As I recall there is a certification process they need to pass before becoming a university. This has to do with program offerings, general size of the institution, course offerings, and other criteria established by the certification boards.
Does it have your major? What kind of resources does it have to support your education? What about living accomodations? Does it have a good library and study resources? What about student activities? Is it within an acceptable distance of home and your support network? Are classes taught by the actual professor or by a teaching assistant? These are elements to look at.
I have observed that most state intitutions are universities, while smaller or private ones are colleges. As I recall there is a certification process they need to pass before becoming a university. This has to do with program offerings, general size of the institution, course offerings, and other criteria established by the certification boards.
Vincent Vadala
Training Manager
8
Answers
Weehawken, New Jersey
Updated
Vincent’s Answer
Academically, both options are equally commendable, but if you're drawn to a broad array of classes and programs, a university could be your perfect match. On the other hand, if you value intimate class settings and closer professor-student interactions, a college or a smaller university might be your ideal choice. Consider what suits you best: a smaller classroom of 30 or a lecture hall of 100. Are you a self-starter who can manage your workload amidst the hustle and bustle of a larger school, or do you thrive with additional support to stay on course? Explore various schools, taking into account their size, location, specialization, and other affiliations. Remember, your higher education journey is what you shape it to be, so don't fret if your initial choice doesn't turn out to be your final destination. Immerse yourself in campus life, put your education first, never shy away from asking questions, network with as many people as possible, offer your time to volunteer work, embrace your mistakes as learning opportunities, and cherish every moment of your college life!
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
206
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Aspen - you asked two excellent questions. Regarding the difference between a college and a university, generally, it is that a university offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees. This US News article goes into more detail - https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities/articles/college-vs-university-whats-the-difference.
I agree with the advice that Vincent and Paul shared. I might add a few more observations:
- You may not know the answer to some of the questions they posed until you visit a few campuses and that is okay. When we visited campuses with my daughters, they seemed to sense very quickly if they would be comfortable there. I would also encourage you to take organized tours if they are offered (note: you have to sign up ahead of time). Not only do you see more of the campus, but often the student tour guides will go off script.
- I don't know your family's finances, but I would encourage you to research further before eliminating a college/university because of the tuition costs. Often, the percentage of students on some kind of aid is public. If many are, it may mean that the school is more welcoming to those who need aid. In fact, some pledge to help you meet college costs without loans. Some have honor colleges that cover all tuition for their members.
The more you research and visit, the clearer you will be about where you want to go. One more thing, try not to set your heart on attending one specific school. As Vincent indicated, with an open mind and positive attitude and applying your best effort, you can have a terrific college experience at many places.
Good luck!
I agree with the advice that Vincent and Paul shared. I might add a few more observations:
- You may not know the answer to some of the questions they posed until you visit a few campuses and that is okay. When we visited campuses with my daughters, they seemed to sense very quickly if they would be comfortable there. I would also encourage you to take organized tours if they are offered (note: you have to sign up ahead of time). Not only do you see more of the campus, but often the student tour guides will go off script.
- I don't know your family's finances, but I would encourage you to research further before eliminating a college/university because of the tuition costs. Often, the percentage of students on some kind of aid is public. If many are, it may mean that the school is more welcoming to those who need aid. In fact, some pledge to help you meet college costs without loans. Some have honor colleges that cover all tuition for their members.
The more you research and visit, the clearer you will be about where you want to go. One more thing, try not to set your heart on attending one specific school. As Vincent indicated, with an open mind and positive attitude and applying your best effort, you can have a terrific college experience at many places.
Good luck!