Growing up, there were instances we have said that we want to go to Harvard University when we grow up. Probably, we have thought of Stanford University as a choice. At some point or another, we have mentioned of some other famous universities which we usually hear from the news or even from our parents. As we become older, we have brought with us the dream of entering one of the most prestigious universities in our country or even in the world.
Until one day we reach the age when we finally have to choose which university to attend. We get to realize that these Ivy Leagues or well-known universities are not the only choices. Having known that there are lots of universities we can choose from makes it hard for us to decide which to pick. Like any other things that require decision-making, there are factors to consider in choosing a university. In this blog, I will be sharing it with you to help you decide.
Confused of what degree to take, read this 4 Factors to Consider in Choosing the Degree
Five Factors to Consider in Choosing a University
1. Type of School
It is essential to think of what type of university you are going to attend. You have to choose if you’re going to a private university or a state university. You should also consider if you are going to choose a university or a community college. Weigh the pros and cons of the type of university and then there you can at least know in general what type of school you are entering.
2. Tuition Fee
College honestly takes up a lot of money. You have to consider the tuition fee in choosing a university. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Can I afford the matriculation in the university I am planning to attend?
- Will I be able to find scholarships?
- Does my part-time job can cover my expenses?
- Is student loan necessary? Will it be burdensome in the future?
Consider your answers to the questions above and then evaluate the schools that would fit. In addition, if you are low on budget, state universities are good options since they are offering low tuition fee (or even for free in our country). Some private universities are also offering scholarships to deserving students. Grab the opportunity to avail scholarships. You know some financial help is a minus from your problems.
3. Location
It is a dream of a lot of people to move-out from their family’s houses and live in a dorm or apartment. They believe that college is the best time for that. But it is not always the thing. In choosing a university, it is important to consider where the location is. It will be helpful if you ask yourself the following questions:
- Would I like to go out of state or stay?
- Would I like and/or afford to rent a dorm or an apartment?
- If renting is not a choice, would it be fine if I commute? Isn’t that too tiring?
- Is the environment of the university safe and comfortable?
4. Reputation
Although it is not very important, the reputation of the school should be considered, too. Sometimes, employers look into the universities where a person graduates and then there he/she will evaluate if he/she will hire him/her. Take time to answer these questions:
- Does this university have high percentage of board passers?
- Do employers prefer graduates of this school?
- Do they specialize in my field of career?
- In general, do they have good reputation?
Make sure when answering these questions, be objective instead of subjective. Just believe in the facts coming from reliable sources and not from the gossips from people. There are instances that these opinions turned into gossips just usually aims to destroy the reputation of a university. Nonetheless, you cannot judge before you see it yourself.
5. Facilities and Faculty
One of the main reasons why we go to college is to learn. In learning, great professors and quality facilities are one of the most essential things. Evaluating the following questions may be helpful:
Are the professors of this university great? What are their credentials?
Do they have enough facilities for the course that I am taking (e.g. laboratory, field, virtual patients, etc.)?
Do they have other resources that I can use for studying (e.g. library, peer tutoring, e-library, etc.)?
Take these into consideration since these would be helpful for you in the long run. Having the additional resources can be a less pain to your wallet, too. Research well about these things in the university you’re planning attend to.
It was hard for me to decide which university to attend and it is for many people. I hope these 5 factors that I shared with you will be helpful. One last tip, to know more about the universities you’re aspiring to attend, aside from searching on the internet, you may also ask your queries to the students and alumni of the said universities. They have the experience of it and they can share it with you to help you finally decide. Think thoroughly before coming to a decision. May wisdom be instilled in you and may your mind be enlightened. If you have any questions, just ask them in the comment section below.
How about you, what did you consider in choosing the university to attend?
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