Choosing The Right College: Four Points To Consider

Hopeless to Harvard’s main focus is helping students get the information they need to be accepted to an Ivy League school. However, there are a number of broad issues around college acceptance that most high school students are interested in.

Naturally, the Ivy League schools differ from one another. Brown and Yale are very different schools, indeed. Bear in mind that, outside of the Ivy League world, there are even more options when it comes to choosing a college.

When you are looking for the right college, keep these four points in mind:

1. Consider the size of the student body because this affects a lot of things, among them are faculty-student ratio and student culture. A large school is like a large city - there’s a lot to do, and it’s easy to get swept away. Conversely, a small school has all the advantages and disadvantages of a small town. It’s nice that everyone knows you, and you are in a safe atmosphere, but you may find your opportunities limited. Additionally, there is not usually a lot of diversity in a small school.

#2 A very important factor is school prestige. There is really no getting around this. If you have a degree from UPenn, Stanford or Harvard, you will have a better chance of getting a high-paying respected position.

#3 Location is everything. Well - maybe not everything - but it is definitely something! Where will you feel more comfortable: a big city, a suburb, or a rural area? You will find that schools located in each of these settings will have their own distinctive feel. You must choose the one where you feel best and most at home.

Fourth, determine whether your school choice leaves room for growth. This applies to a number of things; however, most important is whether or not the school will challenge you and leave you room to challenge yourself. The four years you are in school are the time for you to maximize your academic potential. You want to be in an environment that will allow you to take risks, encounter a diverse and broad set of experiences, and learn to stand on your own two feet. So, if you have been in Austin, for example, all your life, going to UT-Austin might not be the most broadening experience for you. Your college years give you an opportunity for challenge and self discovery. Take full advantage of it.

Be sure to visit the campuses you are considering. This will help you to make your decision. You might also consider taking a year off after high school to look into all of your options before you jump on the college wheel.

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