Identify What You Want in a School
Before you explore and compare different schools, first decide what you're looking for in a school. Ask your parents to do the same thing. Then compare your answers and come to some agreement as to what you want in a school. Search for a school that fits you well academically, socially and culturally:
- athletic offerings
- campus safety
- campus setting (urban, suburban, small-town or rural)
- diversity of student population
- extracurricular organizations and events
- faculty experience and expertise
- financial aid availability and deadlines
- geographic location
- housing availability and cost
- length, time and location of classes
- number of students enrolled
- percentage of graduates employed within one year
- percentage of students who graduate
- percentage of students who return the following year
- programs of study, majors, and course selection
- school facilities and equipment
- school or program reputation
- student-to-faculty ratio (class size)
- support services (meals, counseling, job placement)
- transportation availability and cost
- tuition and fees
If you're still having trouble deciding, ask yourself:
- Why do I want to go to college?
- What do I want to get out of college?
- How will college help me work toward my goals?
- Which college will best/least help me work toward my goals?
- What are the advantages/disadvantages of going now rather than later?
- Does it matter how many students are enrolled with me?
- Do I want to be with students who have diverse ideas, viewpoints and backgrounds?
- In which type of campus setting am I most/least comfortable?
Don't eliminate a school solely because it's outside your comfort zone. The challenge of dealing with the unfamiliar can help you grow as a person.
Download or request a free copy of our Minnesota college guide, which includes valuable information on more than 75 Minnesota colleges and universities.
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