Choosing the college you want to attend is a big decision
and there are many factors that you should consider while making the decision.
Future Career
What do you want to do when you finish college? What’s the
ultimate goal? You should answer this question and then find colleges that will
help you reach the answer. Your career path is something that you will spend
30-40+ years developing and the best training and foundation for that career
comes in the form of the right college or training program. So you want to make
sure the one you pick has everything you need to be successful in your future
career.
Campus Programs/Majors
Having everything you need to be successful in your future
career boils down to the right program or major to get you into your field. A
mistake that many students make is selecting a college for campus amenities or
connections with family or friends, and then finding out that the college
doesn’t have the program or major they really want. This can cause a lot of stress
and anxiety – picking a different major or transferring to a different school.
Transfers can cost more as well because you may add on an extra year or two to
complete your degree. Make sure that the colleges you consider have the program
or major that is right for you, and that that program is in line with your
career goals to ensure your pathway take a career assessment and align your
career and your major goals.
Campus Visit
Try and visit every campus you are considering. While
websites and guidebooks give you an idea of what campus will be like, only an
in-person visit will give you the full picture. Schedule a visit with the
admissions office and personalize your visit by:
·
Attending a lecture in your chosen major
·
Meeting with faculty or students in your chosen
department
·
Do an overnight visit and experience campus life
·
Sit down with a financial aid advisor and
discuss cost and scholarship opportunities
·
Try the food in the cafeteria and check out the
career center, student life, and the dorm
·
Ask lot so questions (download Campus Visit
Guide at www.icansucceed.org/materials)
Financial Aid
Make sure you are picking a college that is within your
means and allows you to graduate with an affordable degree. Your basic college
budget formula is this:
Starting Salary = Overall Borrowing Limit
This means that if you will make an average starting salary
of $25,000 your total student loans for the full time you are in school should
not exceed $25,000. This keeps your student loan payments at a reasonable level
for repayment once you graduate. Make sure you are picking a school that is
affordable for the life and career you plan to have after graduation.
Choosing a college can seem overwhelming but breaking down
the decision into these categories and asking questions will help you make the
best decision based on your future goals and set you up for future success.
Brittania - ICAN Hiawatha Center
