How Do I Choose a College? Finding a School That’s Best for You

What Should I Consider When Choosing a College?

Choosing the right college is a personal decision and one of the most significant milestones in a student's life. And with roughly 4,000 degree-granting institutions in the U.S. alone, it can be hard to know where to begin. What academic and personal factors are the most important to consider? With so many similar websites and brochures, what information do you really need to make an informed decision?

Every student has different interests and needs. This is a difficult decision and every prospective student should make their choice with confidence. Keep in mind, there is no perfect college or university for everyone. Look at a variety of schools, stay critical, and most of all, trust yourself!

How Do I Balance My Preferences in Choosing a College?

Identifying the right college starts with understanding your personal needs and career aspirations. If you're trying to choose between a few career options, talk to a guidance counselor at your school, parents, friends, teachers, or take an online assessment.

Once you've identified your areas of interest, it's time to take the first step to narrow down the search. Will you stay in-state, closer to home, or are you looking for an adventure in someplace new? Do you want a big university experience, or to join a community where you'll be a name instead of a number? Choosing a school that fits your preferences helps ensure your success at college. Here are three primary factors to keep in mind:

• Location and Campus No matter how dedicated you are to your studies, most students want to go home now and then. The college's location greatly influences your overall experience, and traveling across multiple states can add days to every trip. Do you prefer an urban setting or a quieter, rural environment? Consider the campus size (population), facilities, and available amenities. Visiting the campus or taking virtual tours is a great first step in helping you gauge if the environment is right for you.
• Academic Programs and Majors: An attractive campus that doesn't offer the degree you really want isn't much use. Evaluate the range of academic programs and majors the college offers. Research the departments and courses in your areas of interest. Opt for colleges with a solid reputation in your desired field of study (more on that in a moment) and opportunities for internships, research, or practical experience. This ensures you receive a quality education that aligns with your career goals.
• Financial Aid and Scholarships: College is a significant financial investment, so consider the costs and available financial aid options. Are you considering public or private schools? The type of institution you choose could have different fees, types of loans available, scholarship and grant qualifications, and more. Understand the eligibility criteria and application processes for financial aid. Additionally, consider the cost of living in the area and potential part-time job opportunities.

EXTRA CREDIT: Assess each college's dedication to your field by examining both your specific program and related areas. Remember, your studies will likely include courses in associated subjects. Ensure the college strongly supports disciplines connected to your primary interest.

What Kind of College Should I Go To?

While large universities typically provide abundant academic and extracurricular opportunities, the potential drawbacks of crowded classes and expansive campuses may overwhelm some students, potentially diminishing the benefits of these extensive offerings. One way to evaluate this is to review each school's student-to-professor ratio, and provide average class sizes. At SUNY Fredonia, we have a 12:1 ratio and an average class size of 22. You will find schools with 18:1, 30:1, and even 40:1 ratios, which can make it harder for individuals to get personalized mentoring, career advice, and others support. When thinking about the kind of academic experience you want, consider the following:

• Size of the College: The size of the college can significantly impact your overall experience. Some students thrive in larger universities with bustling campuses and a wide range of academic and social opportunities, while others prefer the close-knit community and personalized attention smaller colleges offer. Consider the environment where you would thrive and how it aligns with your learning style and goals.
• Extracurricular Activities and Clubs: Participation in extracurricular activities and clubs can enhance your college experience and help you develop new skills and interests. Look for colleges that offer a variety of clubs and organizations that align with your passions and hobbies. Whether you're interested in sports, arts, community service, or academic clubs, having opportunities to engage outside the classroom can enrich your college years.
• Diversity and Inclusion: College is a time for growth and exploration, and exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures can broaden your horizons. Consider the level of diversity and inclusion on campus, as it can greatly impact your college experience. Look for colleges that value diversity and promote an inclusive environment where you can learn from people with different backgrounds and experiences.

EXTRA CREDIT: Walk through town. Life in college doesn't stop at the edge of campus, so check out local restaurants, shopping, parks, or part-time job opportunities.   

Steps to Narrowing Down Your College Choices

Now that you know what kind of college or university experience you want, it's time to get more specific about the schools that match your preferences. Much of the process to review your top schools can be done through their website and social media accounts. However, nothing takes the place of actually visiting the campus for yourself. Where do students live on campus? How's the food? Choosing a college is a significant decision, so take your time, gather all necessary information, and trust your instincts. When you have some schools on your list, take a look at the following unique information for each one:

1. Researching College Rankings and Reputation: Begin by researching college rankings and reputation through reputable sources like college ranking websites or publications. Pay attention to factors such as academic programs, faculty qualifications, student satisfaction, and graduation rates. Prioritize what matters most to you, whether it's a strong academic reputation or a specific program or department.

2. Talk to Current Students and Alumni: Engaging with current students and alumni can provide valuable insights into the college experience. Reach out to college admissions offices to connect with current students or alumni willing to share their experiences. Ask about their academic journey, extracurricular activities, and overall satisfaction with the college. This firsthand information can help you understand the college's strengths and weaknesses and make an informed decision. 

3. Take a Social Media Deep Dive: Dig into your prospective colleges' social channels and take a peek at the campus experience. Do you see smiling, happy faces? Does the campus look like someplace you can thrive year round? Are the students involved in research programs, extracurricular activities, clubs and organizations? What's the weather like? Some of your biggest questions can be answered simply by looking at their Instagram accounts.

4. Visit the Campus: Campus visits are essential to the college selection process. Nothing replaces the experience of walking across campus, seeing the space, taking it all in. Schedule tours to experience firsthand what each college offers and take time to observe the campus facilities, dormitories, classrooms, and recreational areas. Note the campus culture, friendliness of staff and students, and the overall atmosphere. This will help you determine if you can envision yourself thriving and being happy at the college.

EXTRA CREDIT:  Meet with faculty in your anticipated program when you come to campus. Do you like their approach to teaching? Is their research interesting? Are they someone you would want to learn from?  

Attend Open House Schedule a Visit

Decision Time: Are You Picking the Best College?

Making the right choice for your college experience is both a daunting task AND an empowering opportunity. Considering the factors above, you can navigate the process with clarity and confidence. Here are three key aspects to consider:

• Comparing Financial Aid Packages: Evaluating the financial aid packages offered by colleges is crucial. Carefully compare the grants, scholarships, and loans provided by each institution. Consider the amount of aid, terms and conditions, and the likelihood of renewal. By comparing financial aid packages, you can determine which college will be the most affordable and provide the best financial support.
• Considering Career Services: The availability and quality of career services at each college can significantly impact your future job prospects and success. Look for colleges that offer robust career counseling, internship opportunities, resume workshops, and networking events. A strong career services department can provide valuable guidance and support as you navigate your career path.
• Trust Your Gut: While practical factors like financial aid and career services are essential, don't underestimate the power of your gut feeling. Visit campuses, talk to current students and faculty, and attend college fairs. Pay attention to how you feel when you step foot on each campus. Trust your instincts and choose a college where you feel comfortable, inspired, and excited to learn and grow.

You've Got This!

Keep your goals in sight; this is your moment to choose the path that truly resonates with who you are and who you want to be. If you have any questions don't hesitate to reach out to the SUNY Fredonia Admissions Office at 716-673-6251.