5 Things to Ask Before Selecting a College

Choosing a college requires more than simply picking the one whose sports team you like best. There’s also more involved in the process than just choosing a school based on its reputation or brand name. So, where do you start? Instead, you need to find a school that’s the right “all around” fit for you.

How, you ask? By asking yourself the right questions. Here are some of the important things to ponder when you’re trying to decide which college should be your top pick.

1) What Do You Want to Gain from the Experience?

Most high school students have some sort of goal or vision for their college experience. They may see themselves wandering a small campus and attending classes that they can walk to from their dorm rooms. Others might want to attend a larger school and bike all around campus. Going beyond that vision, you also have to consider what you want to get out of the experience, beyond a degree. This will help you make a decision when examining large schools versus small schools.

2) What Kind of Environment Do You Thrive in?

When thinking about the answers to this question, ask yourself if you want individualized attention or if you enjoy being a part of the crowd. On top of that, do you thrive in big cities or small towns? Exactly what type of campus do you prefer? You probably already have a good idea of the best environment for you, so, now you just need to find a school that matches it.

3) Do You Need Extra Help with Your Studies?

Students with disabilities will need to find a school that offers the best support programs, so they can thrive. This is something very important to consider when choosing a college, so spend some time asking the tour guides and see if you can visit the college’s support office, so you know how things work there.

4) What Type of Housing Do You Prefer?

Not every school requires students to live on campus. Some of them, usually in large city settings, allow students of every level to live in an apartment or house off campus. Others have a Greek row where sororities and fraternities house their students, while dorms are prevalent throughout many campuses. With so many options available, it’s important to make sure that the ones you want are offered at the schools of your choice.

5) How Did the School’s Tour Make You Feel?

Every college campus has a certain vibe or atmosphere, and every student interprets it differently. After your tour of the campus ends, consider how you felt while there. Did you feel comfortable? Did something give you an uneasy feeling? Or was the campus full of positive energy? You’ll know right away if the campus feels right for you, which is a sign that you need to bump it up on your list.

Consider Attending Dean College

If you’re looking for a college to attend, make sure to add Dean College to your list. We’re a small-town school near a big city, you get the best of both worlds. Plus, with so many extracurricular activities to enjoy, you’ll never be bored and can really embrace the whole college experience. Join us!