Choosing A College

Not only is the program an important part of choosing a college, but so is everything else about the college! Campus will become your home for the next 2 to 4 years, so you want to make sure you are happy with all of the college’s offerings. Students who find their perfect match college and enjoy their campus and program are more likely to complete their degree. The best way to see if the college is a perfect match for you is to visit (in person or virtually).

Remember: College is an investment for your future. Would you buy a house or a car without seeing it in-person or doing research?

 Be excited about your future and do your research!

THINGS TO CONSIDER:

• Location (distance from home)
• Diversity
• Housing
• Tutoring Services
• Cost
• SportsClubs
• Classrooms/Labs
• Study Abroad
• Library
• Career Services
• Counseling
• Religious Affiliation
• Class Sizes
• Program/Major
• Housing
• Tutoring Services

The BEST way to find out if a college is a perfect match for you is to visit the campus! Campus visits are always free and some colleges may even offer you lunch! Bring a parent or friends along, to see your (potential) future home.

You can even  visit many colleges from your home through virtual tours.  Obviously, virtual tours are not the same since it is harder to get that “home” feeling. However, if you are located near or driving by a college, we recommend stopping by campus and driving through or walking around a bit. It’s not an “official” visit, but it can be very beneficial.

You Visit is a great place to start to find virtual tours. Click here to go to You Visit.

You can find virtual visits on college websites, typically on the home page or under the Admissions page.

COLLEGE VISIT TIPS:

Admissions representatives LOVE showing prospective students campus and want you to get there. Ask the admissions office if they offer reimbursements if you are traveling far!

Admissions offices often hold open houses as well as one-on-one meetings. Some colleges may even offer night stays with current students!

Ask to meet with a professor from the academic department you are interested in or sit in on a class!

Ask to meet with a coach if you are interested in playing a sport!

COLLEGE COMPARISON CHART:

Use this tool to compare multiple colleges that interest you! Print the PDF or open as a Google Document to fill it out.