Finding the right college to attend is centered on the idea of practicality. What are your interests and skills? What professions value those interests and skills most? Knowing who you are as a person and what surroundings you tend to prosper best will help you as you begin the journey of obtaining higher academic learning.
The key is to think in individual terms. If you are still unsure of what path you wish to take after high school, make note of the many options available to students in this predicament. Aspects such as academic programs, location, and size will play key components in the process of choosing which college fits your personality the best.
Programs
There are some students who are more hands-on than others and wish to enter the workforce sooner than the four or more years it takes to earn a college degree. Trade schools offer these students the perfect opportunity to do just that. Also, two-year community colleges are ideal for students looking to save money in their academic endeavors and are still uncertain of what major they wish to choose.
Location
Despite some people counseling students that this should not be a top priority when choosing where to go to college, it certainly is an important part of the decision process in my opinion. Some students are fully prepared to go to school in another state or across the country. Others frankly, will just not feel comfortable being that far away from school. So whether you are looking to attend one of the many Texas colleges available, or do not want to leave your hometown of Houston, this is a factor that must be taken into account when looking at colleges.
Campus Life
Take into account that the college you choose will serve as your home base for the next four years of your life, maybe even more. In that case, it is wise to visit the campus and become familiar with the surroundings of your prospective school. Are you interested in attending a school with a smaller campus size? Do you prefer a school in a metropolitan area or one located in a rural area?
Speak with the current students and see what aspects of the campus they found desirable when they were once in your position. Always remind yourself that there were others before you in the same situation that you’re in right now, which should provide you with plenty of firsthand sources who can help you along the way as you find the college which best suits your needs. Also, see if the school will allow you to spend the night at the school for a more accurate feel of living on campus.
If you are still having trouble finding a college that fits your needs, no need to worry. Students who take a year off after high school have the chance to gain real work experience, discovering aspects of themselves they may have not if they chose a college for the sake of choosing one.
http://www.aahe.org/texas-colleges.htm
Janet Levin is has worked for educational institutions for the past 22 years. She has spent time in admissions, counseling, and as an educator. She currently specializes in helping students to make the proper selection on the college that is right for them as well as finding financing for their higher education.
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