Many young people consider going to university or college a way to mark their passage. There are many new people to meet, a variety of interesting ideas to absorb, and a lot of headaches. How do you choose the right school?
- Learn more about the course content
Your choice of the course is the most important factor in your decision. It will take you at least three years to get to know it. You’ll likely go on to pursue your career in that field so you need to make sure you are making the right decision in terms of subject matter as well as the type of degree.
This can be done best by doing prior research. Many colleges and universities provide information about each module of their courses. Faculty departments will often be happy to answer any questions. Match the course content to your interests and think about how it might affect your career goals.
- Take a wider look
While course curriculums are important, you should also consider what your degree offers beyond the classroom. Is there internship or work experience opportunities? Some schools are more connected to the industry than others. This can have a significant impact on job applications after graduation.
Also, consider the flexibility of your choice. Although choosing a major or minor is common in the US it is not a standard practice in the UK. As you may start wanting to choose different directions because studying is not satisfying you anymore. You will ask “Please someone do my coursework. I just don’t want to see those terms” if you’ll not like subjects. Also, you probably won’t go to work which you don’t like. Consider studying in combination with another subject, especially if this is compatible with your interests or career goals.
- Take into account the reputation of the faculty
Harvard and Oxbridge are the exceptions, but no university is a leader in all. It is only natural that schools have different strengths. For example, if you are interested in studying politics, it is not a good idea to choose a university with exemplary reputations for medicine.
Research online. You can find many rankings tables broken down into different departments, which will give you an idea of what to expect. You can start by making a list of the most popular in your field and then go from there.
- Check out the rankings
This tip should not be taken too seriously. Rankings don’t always tell the whole story. However, they can provide an indication of the university’s general standing and reputation, which can be very important in some industries.
It is important to understand the information. If a university is highly ranked because of its excellent postgraduate research, that’s fantastic. However, it doesn’t necessarily indicate that the quality of teaching and facilities are top-notch.
Instead, focus on the points that apply to you as an undergraduate. What is the student satisfaction score? What is the ratio between students and faculty? Concentrate on the things that will directly impact your education.
- Take into account the impact on your CV
As we have already mentioned where we are studying can sometimes be as important as what. There is a constant debate in HR and recruitment circles about how much stock a candidate can place on their alma mater. It is undisputed that applicants with Harvard or Oxbridge degrees on their resumes will be more successful than those without them; this is something you should keep in mind as you make your decision.
If you are unsure, many countries have a list of elite universities. These include the Ivy League (USA), the Russell Group (UK) and the Group of Eight (Australia). These institutions are highly recommended if you expect to earn high grades.
- Do your research in the area
Apart from the academic aspect, it is important to remember that you will be spending the future at the school you choose. This means that you must love the place you live in.
This is important if you are looking to live in the center of a large city. You may prefer to be in a more private or rural setting. Do not underestimate the importance to visit and research the area. Your education is vital, but you will be miserable in your surroundings.
Consider how easy or hard it is to get back home. It might seem strange at first, but you will find that weekends at your parents’ (and all the comforts that go with it) become more appealing. Moving 400 miles across the country may not be the best option if you are very attached to your mother’s laundry and cooking skills.
- Visit the campus first
It is important to visit the school and see the surrounding area, as we have already mentioned. Open days and university fairs are a great way to meet current students, staff, and ask questions. You can also view the facilities firsthand, which will help you make better judgments.
It is possible to get a sense of the place. It might look amazing in brochures or online, but you may feel different when you actually see it. Make a list of all the important things you will need to do before you go. Then, see how your choices perform.
- Take a look at future
Going to university can be an exciting experience for young people. However, it is easy to let short-term factors like the line-up at Freshers week, or the quality and location of your accommodation influence your decision.
This is a trap! Take a look at the opportunities available in the second and third years. While it may not be necessary now, you might want to study abroad someday. Three years into your degree and realizing that this is not an option, you may feel frustrated.
- Take a look at the wider campus life
Everyone knows that student life is more than just essays and lectures. Therefore, it’s important to look at the larger picture on campus. Look at the websites of the student associations you choose and see what clubs and societies are available. Is there enough to keep your mind occupied and interested away from your studies?
You should also look at their reputation for sports programs. Whether you are a casual or committed participant, sport is a fulfilling and resume-friendly university pastime. If Greek life appeals to you, then consider joining one of the many fraternities or sororities.
- Think about the financial part
Education should not be a financial barrier. Unfortunately, this is still the case for many. Even if you can manage to get the required funding, your entire working life will be dominated by huge debts. This is a major factor in the final decision of many potential applicants – regardless of whether or not they wish it to.
It is not wise to choose the cheapest option. We recommend that you investigate all funding options. However, if tuition costs exceed $60,000 per year, you should ask yourself if the return will be worth it.
- Take a look at the University’s culture
Many universities have their own culture or identity. This is often rooted in the founding of these institutions. There are many schools in the US that are solely sex- or faith-based, especially in the US. You might consider studying at a Catholic university if you are a Catholic.
Sometimes, the culture is more subtle. Some universities are known for their nightlife, while others like Oxford and Cambridge are more traditional and conservative. You need to choose the right school for you, regardless of whether you are happy in a 14th Century courtyard reading Charles Baudelaire’s Latin or at Wetherspoons sipping tequilas while wearing a toga.
It is crucial to be able to find the right university. Proper preparation can help you avoid having to transfer schools, or worse, drop out completely. While neither of these outcomes is the end of the universe, it can be a painful lesson financially. However, it can also save you money if this guide is followed closely.
What was your deciding factor when choosing a university? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments
