The College Journey HOT TAKE: Find the school that ranks highest for YOU!
The most critical thing to consider when looking at colleges is the match between college and student.
Finding a college that offers a major you want is great, but chances are your interests and major could change before you graduate- what is the most popular major at UCLA? “Undeclared!” Of course, we “market” clients based on current interested fields of study, but you you should ensure the school is a good fit and fills your needs, not just academics. College is equally an opportunity to grow, discover passions, deepen your understanding of the world, meet new people, and more. Consider:
Academic Programs:
Ensure the school offers the academic programs and majors that align with your interests and career goals, even if that changes before officially declaring a major- “I want to be an engineer, but I’m still interested in medieval literature…”
Look into the faculty's expertise and credentials in your chosen field of study.
Campus Culture:
Visit the campus if possible to get a feel for the atmosphere and culture. Attend campus tours or open houses. How’s the food!? What’s the campus “vibe”? Try to tour in person if possible- no virtual tour will give you the true “Real Deal Feel.”
Talk to current students to gain insights into their experiences and perspectives.
Class Size and Student-to-Faculty Ratio:
Smaller class sizes often allow for more personalized attention and interaction with professors.
A favorable student-to-faculty ratio can contribute to a more engaging learning environment.
Extracurricular Activities:
Explore the availability of clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities that align with your interests.
Consider opportunities for leadership development and community involvement.
Support Services:
Check the availability of academic support services such as tutoring, writing centers, and counseling.
Investigate career services and internships to help with post-graduate plans.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Assess the school's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Look for a campus that embraces a variety of perspectives and backgrounds.
Location:
Consider the school's climate, proximity to home, and available resources in the surrounding area.
Evaluate the cost of living and any potential impact on your overall experience.
Financial Considerations:
Understand the cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses. Explore available financial aid options, scholarships, and work-study programs.
Housing Options:
If planning to live on campus, research the available housing options and their amenities.
Consider off-campus housing if applicable and assess its affordability and convenience.
Career Placement and Alumni Network:
Investigate the school's track record in placing graduates in relevant jobs or graduate programs.
Check the strength and accessibility of the alumni network for potential networking opportunities.
By thoroughly considering these aspects, you can ensure that your chosen school is academically suitable and provides a well-rounded and fulfilling experience that meets your broader needs.
The answer to these questions will differ for every student, so it is strongly advised that students make independent decisions and not be influenced by where their friends apply.
DO NOT get hung up on ranking websites and magazines- the data is often skewed, misleading, and IRRELEVANT TO YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS AND INTERESTS. For example, a client is currently receiving a top-notch undergraduate education at the UMass Amherst Honors College, and her program is BETTER for her than what the HARVARD undergraduate program offered!
Just because a publication thinks school is great does not necessarily mean it is great FOR YOU. You get to determine that for yourself - CREATE YOUR OWN RANKINGS!
