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Cecilia
Student
Grafton, Ohio
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How do you know what college to transfer to?
If I would like to transfer to a different college after community college should I pick only based on academics or should I consider the size of the campus and other aspects aswell.
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4 answers
Sharon Vien
Data and Tech Associate
40
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San Jose, California
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Hello Cecilia! I, too, was once in your shoes as a transfer student. When you're making the big decision of which college to transfer to, it's crucial to consider factors such as cost, the size of the school, its environment, the quality of academics, and how your existing credits will transfer.
One of the most important aspects to look into is your chosen major and how your credits align with it. There's a helpful website available where you can check if the classes you've taken at your community college will be accepted at the 4-year university you're considering. More specifically, it lets you see if the courses you've completed for your major can be credited towards the required courses for the same major at the university. This tool can be a real game-changer in determining if a particular university is a feasible option for you.
I would strongly advise you to discuss this with your academic counselor to gain more clarity. Plus, some community colleges offer the opportunity to tour universities. This can provide you with a firsthand experience of the university environment and help you decide if it's the right fit for you. Best of luck with your decision!
One of the most important aspects to look into is your chosen major and how your credits align with it. There's a helpful website available where you can check if the classes you've taken at your community college will be accepted at the 4-year university you're considering. More specifically, it lets you see if the courses you've completed for your major can be credited towards the required courses for the same major at the university. This tool can be a real game-changer in determining if a particular university is a feasible option for you.
I would strongly advise you to discuss this with your academic counselor to gain more clarity. Plus, some community colleges offer the opportunity to tour universities. This can provide you with a firsthand experience of the university environment and help you decide if it's the right fit for you. Best of luck with your decision!
Todd Jurow
Project Manager
27
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New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Todd’s Answer
My kids are a college freshman and senior, so I've recently been through the college selection process. The criteria for choosing a college is different for everyone, so there are things you should consider even beyond academics or campus size. Know that there are plenty of free on-line resources that can help you, so no need to feel too overwhelmed.
For both my kids, we created a spreadsheet listing all of the schools they were interested in. The list started out at around 50 schools (yes, that's a lot), but by creating columns for the important categories, we were able to have a better view of the schools and their individual plusses and minuses. Geography played a role as well, easily helping to eliminate schools that were deemed too far away. We listed school size (undergrad and graduate population), location (urban, suburban, rural), strength of academics, student-to-staff ratio, cost (tuition plus room/board), acceptance %, and then even dug into rankings for things like campus food, dorms, etc. The 50 schools were cut down to a more manageable 20 almost right away.
For a transfer student, you'd have to consider schools that accept your transfer credit, as some 4 year schools will accept all, most, or just some of what you've already taken at community college. If you've completed 2 years already and a college will only accept half your credits, that may be cause to look at your other options. Financial aid will also be a consideration, as 4 year schools are more expensive than 2 year schools, and you'd have to factor in room and board if you're not going to a local college while living at home.
My kids learned quickly that there is not a perfect choice out there, but there is a best choice. The best choice is the one that feels right when you walk onto campus. My kids crossed quite a few schools off of their list after taking tours of schools they were sure they'd love. (One school was crossed off the list while we were looking for a parking spot.)
Make use of free on-line resources (we liked Niche.com very much, along with College Confidential)
Create a spreadsheet listing all of the schools you're interested in
Create columns for the important categories
Geography, school size (undergrad and graduate population), location (urban, suburban, rural), strength of academics, student-to-staff ratio, cost (tuition plus room/board), acceptance %, campus food, dorms, etc,
Consider schools that will accept your transfer credit
For both my kids, we created a spreadsheet listing all of the schools they were interested in. The list started out at around 50 schools (yes, that's a lot), but by creating columns for the important categories, we were able to have a better view of the schools and their individual plusses and minuses. Geography played a role as well, easily helping to eliminate schools that were deemed too far away. We listed school size (undergrad and graduate population), location (urban, suburban, rural), strength of academics, student-to-staff ratio, cost (tuition plus room/board), acceptance %, and then even dug into rankings for things like campus food, dorms, etc. The 50 schools were cut down to a more manageable 20 almost right away.
For a transfer student, you'd have to consider schools that accept your transfer credit, as some 4 year schools will accept all, most, or just some of what you've already taken at community college. If you've completed 2 years already and a college will only accept half your credits, that may be cause to look at your other options. Financial aid will also be a consideration, as 4 year schools are more expensive than 2 year schools, and you'd have to factor in room and board if you're not going to a local college while living at home.
My kids learned quickly that there is not a perfect choice out there, but there is a best choice. The best choice is the one that feels right when you walk onto campus. My kids crossed quite a few schools off of their list after taking tours of schools they were sure they'd love. (One school was crossed off the list while we were looking for a parking spot.)
Todd recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3767
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Cecilia,
Key Factors for Selecting a Transfer College
Academic Programs
When deciding on a transfer college, the academic programs it offers should be a top priority. Investigate the college's standing in your chosen major, the course availability, and the qualifications of the faculty. Make sure the college you choose can equip you with the academic foundation required for your future career path.
Campus Size
The size of the campus can greatly shape your college experience. Large universities often provide more resources and opportunities, like research facilities, study abroad programs, and a variety of extracurricular activities. On the other hand, smaller colleges may offer a more intimate, supportive learning atmosphere, which can be especially beneficial if you find large class sizes overwhelming.
Campus Culture
The culture of the campus is a vital element to consider when selecting a transfer college. Research the college's values, traditions, and the composition of the student body. It could be beneficial to visit the campus to sense the environment and see if it aligns with your personal values and aspirations.
Location
The location of the college can greatly affect your college experience. Consider factors such as the distance from home, living expenses, and opportunities for off-campus activities when choosing a transfer college. Ensure the location of the college suits your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
For many students, college tuition can be a significant financial strain. It's important to research the financial aid and scholarship opportunities at each college you're considering. Take into account tuition fees, housing costs, and meal plan costs when comparing financial aid packages.
Extracurricular Activities and Clubs
Extracurricular activities and clubs can greatly enrich your college experience. Look into the clubs and organizations that match your interests and hobbies. Consider joining clubs that offer opportunities for leadership, networking, and skill development.
In summary, when selecting a transfer college, it's crucial to consider a variety of factors beyond academics. Aspects such as campus size, campus culture, location, financial aid, and extracurricular activities can greatly shape your college experience. By considering these factors along with academic programs, you can ensure you select a college that aligns with your personal values, goals, and lifestyle.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
Key Factors for Selecting a Transfer College
Academic Programs
When deciding on a transfer college, the academic programs it offers should be a top priority. Investigate the college's standing in your chosen major, the course availability, and the qualifications of the faculty. Make sure the college you choose can equip you with the academic foundation required for your future career path.
Campus Size
The size of the campus can greatly shape your college experience. Large universities often provide more resources and opportunities, like research facilities, study abroad programs, and a variety of extracurricular activities. On the other hand, smaller colleges may offer a more intimate, supportive learning atmosphere, which can be especially beneficial if you find large class sizes overwhelming.
Campus Culture
The culture of the campus is a vital element to consider when selecting a transfer college. Research the college's values, traditions, and the composition of the student body. It could be beneficial to visit the campus to sense the environment and see if it aligns with your personal values and aspirations.
Location
The location of the college can greatly affect your college experience. Consider factors such as the distance from home, living expenses, and opportunities for off-campus activities when choosing a transfer college. Ensure the location of the college suits your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
For many students, college tuition can be a significant financial strain. It's important to research the financial aid and scholarship opportunities at each college you're considering. Take into account tuition fees, housing costs, and meal plan costs when comparing financial aid packages.
Extracurricular Activities and Clubs
Extracurricular activities and clubs can greatly enrich your college experience. Look into the clubs and organizations that match your interests and hobbies. Consider joining clubs that offer opportunities for leadership, networking, and skill development.
In summary, when selecting a transfer college, it's crucial to consider a variety of factors beyond academics. Aspects such as campus size, campus culture, location, financial aid, and extracurricular activities can greatly shape your college experience. By considering these factors along with academic programs, you can ensure you select a college that aligns with your personal values, goals, and lifestyle.
May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
Vicki Huynh
CAD Designs
4
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Vicki’s Answer
Key factors to consider when researching colleges include academic quality, school size, cost, campus environment, and available resources and support systems. You should also look into how to transfer credits from one college to another. I would talk to my school counselor for advice on this. Good luck!