Choosing the right college to pursue higher education can be a daunting experience. You want the best education, exposure, and overall college experience. One has multiple factors in mind whilst college-hunting, and it is possible to overlook certain pointers that could be of great importance. Yes, global rankings and placement records are always the default criteria for every student out there. But it is important to take a step back, look at the bigger picture, and look for a college that helps you become the best version of yourself.
Here is a list of important determinants to keep a note of while you explore which college could be best for you.
ADDRESS YOUR ASPIRATIONS:
- Understand what it is that you actually want to do. What are your ambitions? Where do you wish to see yourself in the next decade? Do your research and jot down which course/degree will allow you to attain your goals.
- Analyze WHY you wish to pursue that particular course. Go to the course curriculum and career prospects pages and ask yourself – is this what I want to do for the rest of my life? Make an informed career decision so you not only survive in your course, but also thrive in it. You should pursue a program that allows you to awaken excited for the day ahead, committed to learning every day.
- Once you narrow down the list of courses you would want to pursue, find out which colleges provide the course of your choice, and explore their websites. These days, most universities have an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can check out their social media profiles and try to analyze what their principles are, and how the campus/student life could possibly be. This is one of the greatest factors while choosing the right college for you.
- Another important factor to consider would be the location of your college/university. A calm and serene environment amidst the hills, or an exciting atmosphere of the beaches – where would you like to study? This decision should solely be based on your personal preferences. However, should you find a college that’s just right for you, the location should be a secondary priority.
RESEARCH & REACH OUT:
- Once you’ve settled on your preferred colleges, dig in!
- The best way to do this would be to jot down the deciding factors that are of importance to you, and try to find out more about them.
- The factors that could primarily be of importance to you should be:
- Rankings of the college on a national and international level
- Accreditations and awards to the name of the college
- The acceptance rate of the college
- The placement statistics of the college
- The recognition of your chosen degree across the globe
- The quality of faculty members for your desired course
- The cultural, curricular and co-curricular activities for student recreation conducted by the college
- You can find the aforementioned information in the official websites of your target college websites, their social media profiles, their alumni posted across the globe (look them up on LinkedIn), current students, and faculty members. You can also shoot out an email to each of your shortlisted colleges and their admissions team will assist you with the required information.
BEGIN YOUR ADVENTURE!
- Now that you’ve finalized which is the best college for you, begin your onboarding process as soon as you can.
- Check out the total cost of your course, arrange financial funds, seek out accommodation facilities, and set up a schedule for yourself.
- Once you step into your college, understand that this is your time to shine, your time to thrive. Enroll yourself in as many activities as you possibly can, keep yourself engaged, and participate in as many events as you can. Make sure that you are seen, heard, and acknowledged. Make the best of this time.