Choosing a right college is a big decision to make. This certainly requires some guidance of parents and friends. This is also one of the milestones in your child’s development, after all right schooling is essential for your child. Some of the students do a prior study on some of the key factors. This helps them in narrowing down in deciding the right college. They have to consider everything from the location preferences to the rigidity of academic requirements in the institution they are considering. Here are some key points listed which will help you choose the right college
1. Location
One important factor to consider is the location of the college. It’s not only the distance to be considered but also to see how comfortable the student will be in that environment.
Colleges in the rural areas have green surroundings full of scenic beauty. This helps students to enjoy the nature while they are studying. This kind of stress free life is suitable to those who are not looking for part-time jobs or internships to raise funds to support their studies or looking for career experience while studying.
Urban schools give that boast required by giving a platform to connect to professionals and business community. It also offers more opportunities for varied friendships and exposure to a new life.
College is definitely a time where students spread their wings. The time away from home may lead to unexpected wishes in the mind of your child, there are also situations where the child gets detached from family. So, watch out!!
But if distance is a big factor and you or your child would rather spend on a college nearer from home, there’s always the option to get a degree online. With reputable universities offering courses like a masters in special education, you’ll be able to save while earning your degree comfortably at home.
2. Size
Smaller classes and schools allow interactions with lecturers and can easily connect to other students with same interests. Bigger schools may be all right for those who can work independently and who look for access to a bigger arena of courses. Consider to make choice based on how you have learned during your high school days. Are you looking for opportunities to meet new people or close interactions with professors and classmates?
3. Social Life
Look for information like, average age of the student body, ratio of girls to boys, academic activities, cultural activities, sport events and other elements and programs from the website or brochures. Plan a weekend trip to the campus along with your child. Talk to the senior students about your questions. This information will help you in making the right decision.
4. Admissions Requirements
Students should keep in mind likelihood of acceptance and always consider picking “safe schools” where they are confident enough to be accepted. This is very important while making choices for your college.
Many schools have requirements of minimum GPA (grade point average), SAT or ACT score, ranks etc. You should have some idea of colleges you might like to join and find out about the requirements while in high school. This is the time when you have the best opportunity to prepare for the best. It’s also good to have these requirements in mind. Some schools ask students to take up tests like essay writing to qualify for admissions. These tests requires strong critical thinking skills.
5. Costs and Financial Aid
Fees which add to the hefty sum are tuition, boarding, transportation etc. Enquire with the financial aid office about the percentage of students receiving need-based financial aid, the percentage receiving scholarships based on academic ability. There is financial aid packages typically awarded to freshmen. One of the facts to be considered is that, state schools are usually much less expensive than the private ones.
There are guidance counselors who can help students looking for admissions in colleges and also those who want o explore different opportunities. They are training professionals who offer advice and have knowledge on the academic calendar to SATs. They ensure that student take practical steps with open mind. They also offer insight to the life at colleges most suited to the achievement and success of students and also cater to particular interests, objectives and wishes.
