Masuk Free Press

As a sequel to my article, “A Senior’s Guide to College Applications,” I have decided to compile a guide to help you when you’ve finally clicked submit on those applications and are faced with one of the biggest decisions of your life. Divided into five main categories, this is a senior’s guide to picking the right college.

1. Affordability

As a 17/18 year old, no one wants to be thinking about the impending student loan debt that will burden you for most of your life outside of school. But it is very much a reality that needs to be discussed. College is expensive, so one of the most important categories to consider is affordability. This is a tough one, it even happened to me. You receive your admissions decision from your dream school only to open it up and discover they offered you no merit or financial aid scholarships. It’s a heartbreaker.

Eevaluate the total cost of attendance, including tuition, room and board, fees and additional costs like textbooks, technology and transportation. Look at the financial aid package carefully, as some schools are more generous than others. Don’t forget to factor in if your parents are helping to support you, and consider applying for external scholarships as well. Remember, taking on significant student loan debt can affect your life choices long after graduation, so choose wisely. This does not mean you have to pick the cheapest school, but considering this in combination with other factors can help point you to the right college.

2. Academic Program

Your college years will primarily be spent in the classroom, so it’s essential to consider whether a school offers strong academic programs in your chosen major. But it is more than just checking if your intended major exists. It’s about the quality, flexibility and resources behind it.

Start by researching whether the college is known for excellence in your area of interest. Are they a nationally ranked program? Do faculty members have relevant experience or ongoing research in the field? Take a look at the course catalog; are the classes interesting, diverse and up to date? These are all questions to ask or research.

Also consider the structure of the program. Is there room to double major or pick up a minor? Are there general education requirements that give you flexibility to explore other areas? Some colleges have core curriculums that are very structured, while others allow more freedom. It can be helpful to look at their approach to teaching. Some schools prioritize hands-on experience while others may have more lectures.  Depending on your learning style and goals, this could be a major factor in your decision.

3. Campus Life/Feel

College isn’t just about academics; it’s where you’ll be living for the next four years. That’s why how a place feels when you’re there can be just as important as anything else. When you visit or research schools, pay close attention to the student population, what clubs and organizations are active, and overall get a feel of the campus. 

Ask yourself: do you feel like you could fit in here? Maybe you’re someone who thrives in a tight-knit small college community, or maybe you’re drawn to the energy of a large university with thousands of students. There’s no right answer, just the right answer for you. Trust your gut here. That feeling you get while walking across campus can be a strong indicator of what’s to come.

4. Opportunities

College should prepare you for life after school, and that means more than just earning a degree. Look at the real-world opportunities a school provides. Does it offer strong career services, internship connections or alumni networks? You should also look at their overall job placement rates. Make sure to also take a look at the college/school your major is in, not just the whole institution. 

If you’re pursuing a competitive field, see what kind of support is available. For example, some schools have partnerships with companies for internships or co-ops, while others have faculty who can help you land research opportunities or grad school placements. These experiences can be just as valuable as what you learn in class.

Don’t be afraid to dig into statistics, talk to current students or reach out to the departments directly. The more you know about what’s possible beyond the classroom, the more confident you’ll feel that a school is setting you up for success.

5. Location

Where a college is located affects way more than just the weather. Do you want to be near a big city, or do you feel more comfortable in a rural or suburban area? Decide how far from home you are willing to go, and narrow down your list to certain locations.

Think about access to internships, jobs, transportation and even things like nightlife or nature. A school in New York City might offer endless career and cultural opportunities, but it also comes with a high cost of living and a faster pace of life. A college in a small town might be quieter and offer a tight-knit community and fewer distractions. Again, there’s no wrong choice here, just make sure the environment matches your lifestyle and needs.

Final Thoughts:

Choosing a college is overwhelming, exciting and deeply personal. As much as rankings, opinions and prestige might play a role, your ultimate decision should come down to where you will thrive. So do your research and visit schools so you can make the best decision that you can. At this point, you’ve already done the hard part by applying. Now it’s about finding your place.