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Do's & Don'ts
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 The first thing you need to realize when you begin your
college search is that there are probably many schools among the over 3,000 in
the United States that will work for you. Often, there is no one "perfect
place." If there is, count yourself lucky and skip on to the section on
admissions. But for the rest of you, the following do's and don'ts of college
selection will help in your search.
"Do'” When Choosing a School
- The most obvious consideration in choosing a college is whether it offers
the courses your looking for. I could go to a wonderful liberal arts school but
if I'm a engineering student I wouldn't be happy. Make sure the school offers
strong courses in your main area of interest.
- Is the school right for you in terms of your abilities, goals, interests,
needs, and personality? If you are not very outgoing and are in a super
competitive school with a "dog-eat-dog" attitude, you won't be happy.
- Consider the size of the school. If you are a people-person, being at a small
school were you can know everyone by name would be a good choice. But if you like
to blend into the crowd a larger school may be a better choice. Carefully
consider the advantages and disadvantages of each school's size.
- Talk to your parents about money. Your parents know how much they can
afford. While many schools have financial aid and student loan programs there
will still be an expected parental contribution. Talk to your parents about
college costs and what they're willing to spend on your education. The basic
costs of room, board, and tuition will vary widely. The most expensive school does not
necessarily provide the best education, but neither is the least expensive
always a bargain.
- Consider the distance to each school. If you feel that you need to visit
home often it won't be economical to fly home all
the time, if the school's close enough to drive home for birthday's and holiday's
you may find yourself saving money and sleep.
- Think about location. Would you prefer
a school in rural Alaska or a local community college. Are you looking for a
large city, a suburban area, or a small town environment?
- Consider a school related to your religious denomination. You may find the
environment better for you when the campus is united by one common faith or you
may consider attending a sectarian school that admits those from all faiths.
- Selectivity – What kind of competition will you face? How do you rank in
your graduating class, and how do your test scores compare with the typical
freshman entering a particular school?
- Does it have adequate libraries, laboratories, and other facilities? Does it
promote well-balanced programs in extra-curricular activities?
- It is important to remember that a post-secondary education should prepare
students for living, as well as for earning a living.
“Not To Do” When Choosing a School
- Do not choose a school without considering several different kinds.
- Do not choose a school just because friends or relatives attend or have attended that school. Often they are not in a good position to know how well suited the school is for the student now.
- Do not choose a school merely because it is inexpensive before thoroughly investigating financial aid available at more expensive institutions.
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