7 answers
Alex
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
4
Questions
Asked
417 views
What are some tips for choosing a college to go to?
There are so many possibilities it is hard to narrow them down
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7 answers
Kelley Anderson, MBA, MAT, PMP, CSM
Delivery Lead
4
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kelley’s Answer
Hey Alex! You're absolutely right, the quest for the perfect college can be quite a challenge! Just last autumn, I was in your shoes, helping my son embark on his college journey. So, I can share a few pointers to simplify your search:
- The first step is to identify your major, if you've already decided on one. If you're still unsure, small liberal arts colleges could be a great starting point. These institutions offer a broad spectrum of subjects, allowing you to explore different fields and perspectives. This could help you discover your passion. Plus, the small size ensures a more personalized learning experience, where educators prioritize student mentorship over research or publishing.
- The next factor to consider is location. Do you see yourself studying close to home or venturing farther away? Remember, the farther you go, the more you might spend on travel, which could limit your trips home during short breaks. Once you've decided on a general area, use college search websites to explore the options in your preferred locations.
- Lastly, think about the size of the college. Do you prefer a small college with more one-on-one interaction with professors, a medium-sized college with a wider range of resources, or a large university with ample research opportunities?
I hope this approach makes your college search a bit easier! Best of luck on your journey to finding the right college!
- The first step is to identify your major, if you've already decided on one. If you're still unsure, small liberal arts colleges could be a great starting point. These institutions offer a broad spectrum of subjects, allowing you to explore different fields and perspectives. This could help you discover your passion. Plus, the small size ensures a more personalized learning experience, where educators prioritize student mentorship over research or publishing.
- The next factor to consider is location. Do you see yourself studying close to home or venturing farther away? Remember, the farther you go, the more you might spend on travel, which could limit your trips home during short breaks. Once you've decided on a general area, use college search websites to explore the options in your preferred locations.
- Lastly, think about the size of the college. Do you prefer a small college with more one-on-one interaction with professors, a medium-sized college with a wider range of resources, or a large university with ample research opportunities?
I hope this approach makes your college search a bit easier! Best of luck on your journey to finding the right college!
Charlie Bernstein
Director
19
Answers
Murray, Utah
Updated
Charlie’s Answer
Like many others have indicated, first, know what you want to study. Then, use tools like US News and World Report College list to find schools that teach that subject.
Other things to consider
1) In-state or Out of state
2) Rural or City
3) East Coast or West Coast or south or north.
4) Large school or smaller school
5) Teacher to Student Ratio
6) Cost
Once you have done this, I recommend visiting some of the top schools on your list. If you cannot do it in person, then take a virtual tour or sign up for an online webinar/tour of the school.
At this point you should have a better idea of which school is right for you.
Other things to consider
1) In-state or Out of state
2) Rural or City
3) East Coast or West Coast or south or north.
4) Large school or smaller school
5) Teacher to Student Ratio
6) Cost
Once you have done this, I recommend visiting some of the top schools on your list. If you cannot do it in person, then take a virtual tour or sign up for an online webinar/tour of the school.
At this point you should have a better idea of which school is right for you.
Kristen Schoonover, PMP
Marketing and communications
4
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Kristen’s Answer
You want to choose an accredited school so your degree is taken seriously. You want to select a school that is respected for their quality of education first and the major you want to study second. The rankings of degree programs vary, but the reputation of the school should last a long time. Online degree programs are not valued as high as in-person schools when your resume is screened for opportunities, though you might take an online/distance degree program from a school with a physical presence and strong reputation. Keep in mind you may not end up working in the same career field as your degree. It's finishing the degree that matters most of the time, and opens the doors of opportunity, and just
having a degree is transferable to many professions.
The best thing you can do is be successful in what you study, work hard and finish well, so if that means staying close to home, going to a smaller school and having more support around you, that may be the best decision for you. Going away to a big school that feels overwhelming or is distracting with all the freedom and social activities is hard for some young people to balance with the time needed for schoolwork, and possibly keeping a job. The best advice is not to take on too much debt at this phase of your life. You may not end up working in the profession that matches your degree and you still have the loans to pay off. You won't make a lot at the start of your career. The weight of student debt can be suffocating and limiting for many years. It is often wiser to start part-time, at smaller schools, live at home, if possible, for a year or two, work part-time and save save save. Try to pay as you go and keep your student debt low. Then transfer for the full college experience, borrow as little as you need, and enjoy the first steps toward independence and adulthood. You'll thank yourself later for the strong foundation you have given yourself.
having a degree is transferable to many professions.
The best thing you can do is be successful in what you study, work hard and finish well, so if that means staying close to home, going to a smaller school and having more support around you, that may be the best decision for you. Going away to a big school that feels overwhelming or is distracting with all the freedom and social activities is hard for some young people to balance with the time needed for schoolwork, and possibly keeping a job. The best advice is not to take on too much debt at this phase of your life. You may not end up working in the profession that matches your degree and you still have the loans to pay off. You won't make a lot at the start of your career. The weight of student debt can be suffocating and limiting for many years. It is often wiser to start part-time, at smaller schools, live at home, if possible, for a year or two, work part-time and save save save. Try to pay as you go and keep your student debt low. Then transfer for the full college experience, borrow as little as you need, and enjoy the first steps toward independence and adulthood. You'll thank yourself later for the strong foundation you have given yourself.
Dan Bigelow
Data Professional
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Dan’s Answer
Hello Alex,
When choosing a field of study, the quality and structure of the major are often the first considerations. These are indeed vital, but it's equally crucial to find a university environment that resonates with your personality, interests, and comfort.
The size of the campus, the character of the surrounding city or town, the availability of online courses, and cultural opportunities all play a significant role in shaping your college experience. Your feelings during this period are just as important as the academic programs themselves.
A positive and comfortable college environment can greatly enhance your learning outcomes. This is why a campus visit is so essential. Remember, you'll likely be spending a few years of your life there, so it's crucial to ensure that it feels like home.
So, don't just focus on the academic aspect, but also consider the overall environment. After all, your college years should be both educationally enriching and personally enjoyable.
When choosing a field of study, the quality and structure of the major are often the first considerations. These are indeed vital, but it's equally crucial to find a university environment that resonates with your personality, interests, and comfort.
The size of the campus, the character of the surrounding city or town, the availability of online courses, and cultural opportunities all play a significant role in shaping your college experience. Your feelings during this period are just as important as the academic programs themselves.
A positive and comfortable college environment can greatly enhance your learning outcomes. This is why a campus visit is so essential. Remember, you'll likely be spending a few years of your life there, so it's crucial to ensure that it feels like home.
So, don't just focus on the academic aspect, but also consider the overall environment. After all, your college years should be both educationally enriching and personally enjoyable.
Vamshee Gunturu
Principal Engineer
187
Answers
Chandler, Arizona
Updated
Vamshee’s Answer
Here are some steps that can guide you in your college search:
Start by identifying a major that sparks your interest.
Search for both in-state and out-of-state universities that offer this major, if you're open to studying out of state.
Evaluate the credentials of each college and compare them to others.
Determine the overall cost of attending each university.
Look into the GPA/SAT/ACT requirements for each institution.
Consider the campus environment as an important factor.
Take a campus tour and interact with current students.
Seek advice from your school counselor.
Conduct online research about each college.
Try to connect with alumni from the colleges on LinkedIn or other online platforms to get their feedback.
Narrow down your choices to 2-3 universities that meet your criteria, including cost, GPA requirements, university ranking, campus environment, job opportunities, and more.
Submit your applications and choose the college that offers the best acceptance terms and financial benefits.
You can find college rankings and scorecards on the following websites:
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?104151-Arizona-State-University-Campus-Immersion
I hope you find this information helpful. Best of luck with your college search!
Start by identifying a major that sparks your interest.
Search for both in-state and out-of-state universities that offer this major, if you're open to studying out of state.
Evaluate the credentials of each college and compare them to others.
Determine the overall cost of attending each university.
Look into the GPA/SAT/ACT requirements for each institution.
Consider the campus environment as an important factor.
Take a campus tour and interact with current students.
Seek advice from your school counselor.
Conduct online research about each college.
Try to connect with alumni from the colleges on LinkedIn or other online platforms to get their feedback.
Narrow down your choices to 2-3 universities that meet your criteria, including cost, GPA requirements, university ranking, campus environment, job opportunities, and more.
Submit your applications and choose the college that offers the best acceptance terms and financial benefits.
You can find college rankings and scorecards on the following websites:
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?104151-Arizona-State-University-Campus-Immersion
I hope you find this information helpful. Best of luck with your college search!
Patrecia (Trish) Rosito
Associate Director of Technology
31
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Patrecia (Trish)’s Answer
Hello, it seems like you've already received some valuable advice, but I'd like to contribute a bit more.
Firstly, it's crucial to determine what you truly want to pursue. What is your dream job after graduation? Pinpoint this first. Once you have a clear vision, ask yourself some important questions:
- Are you willing to relocate or would you prefer to stay close to home?
- What's your current GPA, and how did you perform on your ACT/SAT?
Next, you'll need to conduct some research to find out which schools meet your criteria. Here's a checklist to guide you:
1- Does the school offer your desired degree?
2- Is the school located in your preferred area?
3- Do you meet the school's GPA/ACT/SAT requirements?
4- Do you like the school's atmosphere and culture? To answer this, consider visiting the campus or spending a day with a student who's enrolled in your desired program. This will give you a real sense of the school's environment before you make any decisions.
5- Are you aware of the costs involved? This includes tuition, textbooks, dormitory fees (most colleges require freshmen to live on campus unless they're local), technology fees, and more.
6- Have you considered how you'll finance your education? Look into financial aid, FAFSA, grants, tuition payment plans, and student work programs.
Remember, it's essential to formulate a plan before making any decisions. This will ensure that you're well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Firstly, it's crucial to determine what you truly want to pursue. What is your dream job after graduation? Pinpoint this first. Once you have a clear vision, ask yourself some important questions:
- Are you willing to relocate or would you prefer to stay close to home?
- What's your current GPA, and how did you perform on your ACT/SAT?
Next, you'll need to conduct some research to find out which schools meet your criteria. Here's a checklist to guide you:
1- Does the school offer your desired degree?
2- Is the school located in your preferred area?
3- Do you meet the school's GPA/ACT/SAT requirements?
4- Do you like the school's atmosphere and culture? To answer this, consider visiting the campus or spending a day with a student who's enrolled in your desired program. This will give you a real sense of the school's environment before you make any decisions.
5- Are you aware of the costs involved? This includes tuition, textbooks, dormitory fees (most colleges require freshmen to live on campus unless they're local), technology fees, and more.
6- Have you considered how you'll finance your education? Look into financial aid, FAFSA, grants, tuition payment plans, and student work programs.
Remember, it's essential to formulate a plan before making any decisions. This will ensure that you're well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Emily Street
Sales
4
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hello Alex,
It's fantastic to hear about your ambition to pursue higher education! Reflecting on my own journey, I realize the importance of in-depth research prior to making a decision. Looking back, I might have opted for an Ivy League, given the prestige and the potential career advantages it offers. Here are some key points I suggest you consider in your decision-making process:
1. Compile a list of potential colleges
2. Prioritize your needs and desires
3. Schedule visits to college campuses (you'll instinctively feel whether a campus is the right fit for you)
4. Consider the financial implications and overall cost
5. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each college
6. Take into account the location
7. Research the majors you're interested in and their national rankings (the higher, the better)
8. Think about the size of the school (would you prefer to be a big fish in a small pond or a small fish in a big pond?)
9. Investigate the campus environment and support services available (like tutoring, healthcare, counseling, etc.)
Remember, this is your journey, and I'm here to assist you if you need any help. Best of luck!
Warm regards,
Em
It's fantastic to hear about your ambition to pursue higher education! Reflecting on my own journey, I realize the importance of in-depth research prior to making a decision. Looking back, I might have opted for an Ivy League, given the prestige and the potential career advantages it offers. Here are some key points I suggest you consider in your decision-making process:
1. Compile a list of potential colleges
2. Prioritize your needs and desires
3. Schedule visits to college campuses (you'll instinctively feel whether a campus is the right fit for you)
4. Consider the financial implications and overall cost
5. Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each college
6. Take into account the location
7. Research the majors you're interested in and their national rankings (the higher, the better)
8. Think about the size of the school (would you prefer to be a big fish in a small pond or a small fish in a big pond?)
9. Investigate the campus environment and support services available (like tutoring, healthcare, counseling, etc.)
Remember, this is your journey, and I'm here to assist you if you need any help. Best of luck!
Warm regards,
Em