Choosing the Right College for You

If you are reading this article, chances are that you or someone you love is or will soon be going through the process of choosing a college. In today's informed culture, that decision has become more difficult than ever. We are flooded with information, stats, and the opinion of strangers. I am so thankful to have narrowly escaped the flood of information before making my choice on a higher learning institution. I, yet another stranger giving you an opinion, would suggest that education is much more personal than stats, information and opinions of others. Your college choice is personal and should stay that way. Here are a few things you should think about while making that all important decision that will surely affect the rest of your life.

The Town. No matter how much you enjoy the campus itself, the surrounding town plays a critical role in your overall college experience. You must make sure to spend time in the town and talk to folks who have lived there themselves. Even in the most sheltered campuses, you will need to get away every once in a while. Decide what characteristics make a great town in your mind. Is it the nightlife? The arts and music? Do you need to feel like you are part of a big city or do you prefer a more rural area? These are questions you must answer before making your college choice.

The Size. This is a given must still so important. Most people know the answer to this question. I attended a very small high school; I graduated with 28 people. When the time came to decide which college I would attend, I had a hunch that I would feel more comfortable in a similar environment. Had I attended a large public college, I may have been overwhelmed and not have performed as well as I did. You probably know the answer to this question. However, if you aren't sure, don't panic. First, you should visit classrooms at the schools you are interested in. Most places will be happy to arrange this for you. After you've visited the classrooms, if you still aren't sure, then you should follow your gut instinct. If you're wrong, still no need to panic! You can always transfer.