subject: How To Start Comparing Colleges [print this page] When it comes time to start thinking about colleges, some juniors and seniors just don't know where to start. Even some parents may not know where to begin the process of selecting a school for their child to attend. This is a big decision. It is one that will have long reaching implications on your future. However, if you break down the process, you can begin to focus your efforts on those locations that may offer you the best overall opportunity to find the university that you want. Ultimately, only the student can decide which one is right for their needs, but there are some steps to make this easier.
What Do You Want to Do?
That's the hard question for many people. Being able to say what they want to do when they leave school is tough. Many do not know. In all situations though, you need to pick colleges that offer curriculum and degree programs in the areas where you plan to end up. If you are unsure of what you want to do, compare schools by the courses they do offer. Which one offers the most that you are interested in? Look at the course catalogue to get an idea of what's available so that you can make better decisions about your options.
Decide to Stay or Go
Depending on your needs and desires, the next step to take is to narrow down your options by determining if you want to stay on campus or live at home. Some students also rent housing off-campus. In all cases, you need to know which is your preference, based on what your long-term goals are and where your needs are. Sometimes, the financially smart thing to do is to live at home and get your education that way, but only if the school you want is nearby.
Take a Tour
You will not be able to actually make a commitment in one facility or the next until you take the time to tour it. It is a good idea to invest in colleges that offer tours and on campus orientations for prospective students. In short, you want to get to know the school and those who are in it. You want see the buildings and classrooms and perhaps check out some of the courses you hope to take. Schools allow this because they know it plays such an important role in helping you to decide.
Colleges provide an outstanding resource for individuals. It provides them with some of the best opportunities to achieve their goals and to get from one point in their life to the next. Don't rush this decision. Rather, put time into narrowing down your options before you apply.
