Hey Tigers! Deciding on a college is a daunting task, but it is one of the most important choices you’ll make for your future. With countless options available, each offering unique experiences, programs, and environments. Finding the perfect one requires careful consideration and exploration. If you’re struggling to choose where you want to go, this article will guide you through essential steps to help you identify the college that aligns with your goals and interests. After sending out a Google Form and asking EPHS seniors about their experience looking for a college, a few responded and shared how they decided on a college. Here are a few things you should consider as you make this decision.
Cost
The total cost of tuition will play a big part in helping you decide what school to attend. Knowing the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, and other living expenses, is important. By comparing these costs, you can identify which colleges fit within your budget and where you might need financial aid or scholarships. This helps you make important choices, ensuring that you select a college that not only meets your academic and social needs but also aligns with your financial abilities. A senior from EPHS who replied to the Google Form said they “had to look at finances to make sure which schools were out of the question. I highly recommend getting a job with benefits. Places like Bath and Body Works and grocery stores are offering to help pay for employee tuition.” Ultimately, looking at prices can reduce the stress of student debt. You also should consider more affordable colleges if you’re struggling to find one that you can afford. Near Elmwood Park, Triton College could be a good place to start. If you have a 3.35 or higher GPA, you get free tuition for two years if you pick Triton.
College Visits/ Location
Visiting colleges and knowing the location plays a crucial role in helping you decide which one is the best fit for you. Not only does it help you choose where you want to go, but when you walk around campus, you can get a genuine feel for the atmosphere and see if it aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. Meeting current students provides insights into their experiences and the social scene, while exploring the facilities helps you check out the resources available for your choice of study. If you want to stay close to home or go to a different state, it could be a good idea to look at where it is located. You also should look at the weather if you’re picking somewhere where the weather is significantly different from where you’re from. An EPHS senior replied to the survey saying, “We went to visit almost all of them, and it really gave me a sense of what I liked and didn’t like. It was interesting because some of the schools I applied to ‘just because’ ended up being the ones I liked most.” Additionally, considering how far you want to be from home can impact your comfort level and support system. Ultimately, the right location can strengthen your academic journey during your college years.
Your Major
Deciding on a major is a difficult task, but it is a very important step in determining which college is the right fit for you, as it directly influences the programs and resources available. Different colleges have varying strengths in specific fields, so identifying your interests can help you narrow down your choice of a school that has your desired area of study. Remember, it’s okay to not know what you want to do. It’s perfectly fine to start college with an undecided major. Many colleges don’t require you to choose a major right away. In fact, a significant percentage of students begin college with an undecided major. This gives you an opportunity to explore different subjects and discover what you enjoy before committing to a specific field.
Greek Life
A fun choice you can make while in college is Greek life. This includes fraternities and sororities. These are social and academic organizations on college campuses. They can provide academic support and help young college students develop social and leadership skills. Knowing whether you want to join Greek life or a sorority in college can significantly influence your college selection process. Additionally, understanding the level of involvement and the types of activities offered by Greek organizations at different colleges can guide you in finding a community that feels like the right fit for your personal and academic goals.
Conclusion
Although picking a college can be stressful and annoying, it is an important step in deciding your future. By taking the time to reflect on your personal goals and preferences, you can make a decision that is right for you and your lifestyle. These are just a few of the major steps you should take before committing to a college. Remember, you don’t have to know where you want to go now, but when the time comes, use this to help you really think about your choice. Trust your instincts as you take another step toward higher education.
