For many high school seniors, the transition period between high school and college can be just as stressful as it can be exciting. One of the major stress factors during this period is deciding what college students are going to attend. Many factors go into this decision.
Tips for Finding Your University Fit
The Basics
There are some general things to look at when choosing a school; price, location, school size, grade/test score requirements, available programs, and student living conditions are just a few of the main aspects that future college students are looking at. A great way to narrow the search is by figuring out three things you want in a college. From those three categories, you should be able to gather a list of 5-10 schools that interest you.
Go On a Tour
The next step is to make your best effort to visit all the schools you are focusing on. The visit is one of the most critical steps in picking a school because it gives you the option to try the school on for size. Just like a pair of shoes, you will not know if it’s a comfortable fit until you check it out in real life.
- Get a feel for the campus: Visiting a college campus in person can give students a better sense of the campus environment, the buildings and facilities, the overall atmosphere, and the student body. This can help students determine if the campus is a good fit for their personal and academic goals.
- Meet with admissions representatives: Visiting colleges allows students to meet with admissions representatives, who can answer questions about the admissions process, financial aid, and scholarships. This can help students gain a better understanding of the requirements for admission and the application process.
- Attend information sessions: Many colleges offer information sessions for prospective students, which can provide valuable information about the college’s academic programs, student life, and extracurricular activities.
- Explore the surrounding area: Visiting colleges can also allow students to explore the surrounding area, including the town or city where the college is located. This can give students a better sense of the local community, as well as the cultural and recreational opportunities available in the area.
Take Notes
After each visit, be sure to make notes of the highlights. Having a physical list in front of you can help with the decision process; you can see the pros, cons, and things you might need to know more about before making an extensive choice.
From here, you should be able to make an educated and confident decision about the school you will attend. While making this decision can be stressful, gathering as much information about the schools as possible will make the process smoother. No matter your preferences, if you put in due diligence, finding the right school to put you on the path to success is possible.