Deciding on a college is a big decision. Not only will it pave the way for your career, but you’ll also spend several years of your life there. That’s a big commitment. You’ll need to find a place that’s what you’re looking for academically, but also a place where you feel you can make friends and memories while feeling comfortable and at home.
When deciding which college you want to go to there are some really important things to take into account, but there are also things that you shouldn’t let affect your decision. Here are four things you don’t need to worry about when deciding on your future college.
1. You’ll only consider large schools.
You’re overlooking a lot of quality colleges and universities if you’ll only look at “big” schools. While larger schools have their benefits—and sometimes added name recognition—smaller universities also have a lot to offer. If tight-knit community, personal attention and opportunities for one-on-one mentoring and research projects are important to you, a small school may be a better fit. There are plenty of schools with quality academics and strong programs outside of “big-name” universities, so explore!
2. Your friends are going to a different school.
High school friends are great—and potentially some of the most important people in your life. However, their college choice shouldn’t affect yours. College is a time for you to learn and grow in a lot of different areas, but most of all, learn about yourself. Take the time to look at the college or university that’s the best fit for you—even if your friends are not going there. You’ll be able to focus on yourself and see them on breaks!
3. You aren’t sure about your major.
The reality is a large percentage of students change their majors while in college, so don’t stress if you don’t know what you want to major in immediately. Ask to meet with professors and students in programs that seem interesting to you so you can get a better grasp of what it’s like to work in those fields. Many colleges also offer aptitude and personality tests that can help you better identify majors and professions that might be a good fit. Focus on finding a school with quality academic programs across the board, a community where you feel comfortable and professors, students and staff who will encourage and challenge you.
4. The cost.
College is expensive; that’s just a fact in today’s world. But you shouldn’t let a price tag on a college scare you away from applying. Often, the price a school has listed isn’t what you’d end up paying. At Trevecca, 98 percent of our students receive financial aid, so if you find a school you like that seems out of your price range, apply anyway and learn about their financial aid and scholarships. You might be surprised at how affordable colleges can actually be.
There are hundreds of colleges across the country and finding the one that works best for you can be overwhelming. But remember at the end of the day, it has to be best for you. Don’t worry too much about specific details or where others might want you to go and concentrate on finding the place that works best for you: socially, academically and locatio-wise.