Editor-in-Chief
Many juniors have begun thinking about which colleges to apply to next year. Although choosing a school is a daunting task, you may want to consider the following tips when making the decision.
Academics
Academics is the most obvious factor when picking a school. Be sure to research which college has the best program for your potential major. Although a large university may be more prestigious, if you’re studying liberal arts, for example, consider smaller colleges which focus more on the courses you’ll be taking.
Atmosphere & Location
Think about where you want to attend school. Would you rather live in the mountains or by the beach? Are you searching for a more urban or rural, small town feel? Each college has a unique atmosphere, so be sure to take tours after narrowing down choices so you can thoughtfully compare your experiences at each school.
Population & Class size
It’s important to consider your potential college’s size. Would you prefer a large university with bigger class sizes, or a smaller, more tight-knit college? If you do choose a larger school, don’t worry about finding peers you have things in common with. Most universities, which are divided into separate colleges geared toward specific majors, typically have a strong sense of community, so you don’t necessarily have to attend a small, private college to feel like an individual, rather than simply a number.Any school you attend is going to be an expensive, but worthwhile, investment. Be sure to check out school websites to compare estimated annual expenses and have an honest conversation with your parents about what your family can realistically afford.
