Where Should I Go To College?

Your choice of a major, or the career you want to pursue, should be among the several criteria your choice of college would be based on. Before you enroll, consider these factors.

Location

Think carefully before you consider a college far from home, even if it does sound like a wonderful opportunity to get far away from home and “meddling” parents. If you are an urban dweller, you could decide to go to a rural college but then again you might long for those city lights quicker than you think. Weather conditions should also be a factor to consider, will you cope with snow, rain or heat that you are not used to? There will be times when you’ll be needing your family closer rather than farther away, although you may not want to admit it now.

How Big Is It

If you prefer a college that can offer a wider range of majors and more activities,then a larger college may suit you but if you prefer smaller classes and more personal attention, then a smaller college would be a better fit. Look at also at the student body and its gender and diversity ? where will you fit in better?

Dorm? Apartment?

What are the available dorms, apartments, or other housing facilities? Are they old-school or new-age? Does it have a communal or private bathroom, will you have roommates? Although sharing facilities may be considered part of the college experience, it does not appeal to everyone.

Quality Of Education

What kind of reputation does the college have regarding graduate rate and success? What kind of pressure can you expect in terms of your results? Are there regular placements of students in summer internships and co-op programs? What level of resources are available to students? Most importantly, does the college offer the course you wish to study, and if so, does it specialize in this field?

Extracurricular Activities

Do you see yourself joining a fraternity or sorority, if your college has a Greek system? What is the school spirit like, and are there sports and other activities available? Although certainly not the main reason you are going to college, the social life on campus will be important to your experience there.

Affordability

Even if there are many available sources of financial aid, cost will likely be a factor in your decision. You should consider both public and private colleges, and evaluate what each have to offer.

Visiting your shortlist after doing research on the colleges you are interested in, online and with family, friends, teachers and counsellors, would be the best way to decide which college you might want to go to. To get an idea of what life is in the campus, sit in a class, check out the dorms, eat in the dining hall, and talk to students who are already attending. You should take the time to make the right choice, since you’ll be spending four or more years there. You will do better at a college you like and enjoy attending too.

Learn the secrets of hot penny stocks and options trading.