By now, you know that one of the most important decisions you’ll make in life is where you choose to go to college. There’s a lot to be taken under consideration and it can get a bit overwhelming; it’s not easy for every 18-year-old to be in such a position. But it’s important you thoroughly review your options because you don’t want to end up in regret a year from now – or 20 years from now.
First, you should know what you want to do in life. Have you always been good with numbers? Look into accounting. Have you taken apart a computer and rebuilt it on your own? Consider computer engineering. Your academic strengths and interests should help determine your major. Look for schools that have particularly strong programs in your field of choice and research them by talking to students. Ask if their professors are effective teachers who will go the extra mile to help them. Your professors should be committed to helping you thoroughly understand each topic so that you’re prepared for the next level. Know the job placement rates of recent graduates. If they’re securing jobs as they complete their studies, chances are the program is well-respected for its ability to produce knowledgeable and capable workers. If you’re still undecided about what you want to do, that’s fine. Many college students end up changing their majors a year or two into their studies. Just be sure to have an idea of what you want to try out, so that you can come to a decision within a short period of time. In the meantime, give more weight to other considerations.
The quality of your education can be affected by the size of your classes. If you learn better in a more hands-on environment, aim for a college with small enrollment – perhaps fewer than 10,000 students. If you value the social opportunities that come along with a big school with lots of students, look into your local state universities. Know the culture of the campus. Do you want to study in a more conservative environment – like at a religiously affiliated institution – or alongside people with whom you feel more culturally compatible – like at women’s college or historically black university? Does the campus have an active Greek life and lots of clubs and organizations? Consider whether you want to live close to home or far away on your own. Also, for the sake of your parents, know the price of tuition. According to the College Board, the average yearly cost of public colleges is $7,020 per year, which is much less expensive than the $26,273 charged by private colleges. Of course, financial aid can lessen the burden of high costs; know what the school has to offer. More often than not, what you can afford affects where you go to college just as much as any other factor.