Choosing the Right College: Top 3 Considerations
Selecting what college to go to might be one of the most crucial decisions of your life. The prestige of your degree and subsequent interest from potential employers hinge largely on this choice. Take your time, don’t rush this decision.
Why is this decision so important? Your future earning potential largely depends on where you get your education. So, how do you choose the best college for you? Here’s a straightforward guide:
1. What’s your planned major?
When choosing a college, it’s wise to consider your desired major. Yes, some students might have no major in mind when applying, but it’s not the most effective approach. Schools may specialize in certain subjects — one college could have an excellent business program, but maybe not-so-great medical courses. Once you define your educational pursuits, research which colleges excel in your chosen field. There are plenty of websites that rank schools based on varying degree programs.
2. How does your college rank?
Every college is ranked based on the quality of education and prestige of its degrees. Graduating from a highly ranked school might allow command of higher earnings in the future. Yet remember, a college’s overall ranking could be irrelevant if it has a highly recognized program in your chosen field. College rankings can be deceptive. Some lesser-known universities might be fantastic fits if your major there is well-regarded.
3. What’s the price tag?
College isn’t cheap, so factor in the cost when making your decision. Look for scholarships offered by your prospective colleges, as well as grants you might qualify for based on your place of residence. Keep in mind, even with those aids, you probably still need to handle some of the costs yourself. You can work while studying, get a loan, or both. If considering the latter, remember to factor in the interest on the loan, as you might not want to kickstart your professional journey knee-deep in debt.
There you have it — three key aspects to consider when picking your college. Remember, this decision will shape much of your future, so take the time required to choose wisely. The goal is to pick a college that suits your academic interests, has a good ranking (particularly for your major), and won’t leave you struggling financially.