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Choosing a Major
Choosing a college is one of the key life decisions you’ll make and one that will impact your future, both professionally and personally. There are many factors involved and as many campuses as there are personalities. So, how do you navigate through the overwhelming number of choices? There are some key things to consider when selecting a college:
- Does size matter? If you attend a large high school and feel lost in it then you should select a smaller university. On the other hand, if you attend a small high school and are frustrated by limitations of a small school, you may do well to seek a large university.
- What major of study interests you? If you already know what field you’ll be pursuing, you may opt to attend a college that specializes in your chosen major.
- Get homesick or have a hometown boyfriend/girlfriend? If you think you’ll be traveling home regularly or on weekends, distance may be a factor and you’ll want to choose a college close to home. Anxious to see or live in another part of the country? Then let your adventurous side take over and apply to schools in locations you would like call home for the next years!
- Do you play well with others? If you’re not a good roommate, or not keen on having to share a room, look into campuses that offer single housing units.
Once you have comprised a “short list” of your choices, the next thing you need to do is make a campus visit. You wouldn’t buy a new car without even taking it for a drive first, would you? Do not underestimate the importance of a college visit. Here’s how to get the most out of a college campus visit:
- Take someone with you—a parent and/or a friend
- Schedule some time with the financial aid office to discuss options
- Schedule time to sit in on a lecture or class (preferably in your chosen field of study)
- Schedule a formal tour, usually with a current student ambassador and ask questions!
- Plan to lunch on campus
Nothing can substitute for an on-campus visit. Take advantage of this opportunity to get all of your questions answered.
