How to Choose the Right College: 10 Things to Consider | Ferris State University
Choosing what college to attend is one of the most important decisions you will make throughout your lifetime. College isn’t just about earning a degree; it’s about finding a home away from home that will help you grow academically, personally, and professionally. With so many options out there, we know this decision process can feel overwhelming, but it should also be exciting! Here are 10 factors to consider when choosing the right college for you.
1. Academic Programs and Majors
Does this college offer the academic programs that you’re interested in? It can also be helpful to look into whether or not there is a strong department in your field of study. Are you still unsure of what you want to study? That’s okay! Look into a school that offers a wide range of academic programs and areas to study. At Ferris State University you can find more than 180 in-demand degree programs ranging from associate to doctoral, offered through seven degree-granting colleges. With so many options available, there’s an excellent chance you will find the program perfect for you.
2. Campus Environment
The atmosphere and community can have a big impact on your college experience. It’s important to find the one that feels right to you. Are you looking for a large, bustling university or a more intimate, smaller one? This is where you consider things like campus size, the surrounding town, and the general vibe of the student body. If possible, this would be a great time to visit the campus and get a firsthand look at the environment.
3. Location
How far away do you want to be from family and friends? Is the campus located in close proximity to job opportunities and social activities? The location can also have an impact on your overall lifestyle through the kind of weather the location gets, the cost of living, and how far it is from your home. It’s also important to consider how accessible the campus is to your preferred transportation method. Do you have to take a plane to get there, or can you drive there?
4. Financial Aid and Cost
We know that a major factor of choosing a college is the cost. Make sure to research tuition fees, room and board costs, and the overall expenses of the school to see if it fits within your budget. Don’t let the initial cost scare you away, though. It’s important to explore all of the possible financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. There are a handful of ways that help make college more affordable. They are there to help you so don’t be afraid to use them.
5. Class Size and Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Do you want personalized attention from your professors, or do you prefer large lecture halls where individual attention may be more limited? Think about how you learn best and what would make you feel the most supported. A low student-to-faculty ratio is a good indicator that you’ll most likely have more direct interaction with your professors and a more collaborative learning experience. Colleges with large class sizes might offer more diverse courses but you will have less individualized attention. At Ferris, students have excellent access to faculty due to the low student-to-faculty ratio and small class sizes.
6. Campus Resources
Make sure the college offers the resources that will help you succeed. These can include any academic support services, counseling, career development offices, libraries, gyms, and study spaces. If these are important to you look into how easy it is to access these resources. Having easy access can enhance your college experience and help you stay on track and feel stress-free throughout the semester.
7. Social Life and Extracurricular Activities
College isn’t just about academics. It’s also about making connections, meeting new people, and having fun! Look into the student organizations, clubs, sports teams, and more that the college offers. At Ferris State you can explore over 220 Registered Student Organizations that range anywhere from participating in your favorite hobby or going on camping trips! Participating in extracurricular activities helps to develop skills outside of the classroom and can enrich your college experience. It’s important to get out and have fun so you create a balance between school and having a social life.
8. Internship and Job Opportunities
We know that college is a major steppingstone to landing that dream job or getting an internship you wanted. How well does this college support its students in finding internships, jobs, and networking activities? Many colleges have strong ties to employers, local businesses, and industries that will fit your needs. Career fairs and on-campus recruiting opportunities are valuable events that happen at colleges and help launch your career after you graduate. Check out the career services available to students and how successful the college graduates are at landing jobs.
9. Reputation and Accreditation
Research the reputation of the college, both academically and professionally. A college with a good reputation in your chosen field might be able to provide networking opportunities and increase your success at landing a job. It’s also important to make sure the college is accredited, as this ensures the school meets certain academic standards. You want to make sure you have a strong foundation for your education and your future endeavors.
10. Your Personal Preferences
At the end of the day the right college will be the one where you can picture yourself thriving and feeling comfortable at. Trust your gut and consider what feels right to you whether that be the environment, location, or class sizes. It’s important that you feel confident and excited about your choice because it is only you who will have to personally experience life at this college. Don’t forget to consider your long-term goals and how the college aligns with them, as well.
Choosing the right college is a decision that should be made with much consideration and careful thought. Take the time to research different options, visit the campuses you’re interested in, and look into how current students are doing. By considering these factors and more, you can find the perfect place for you that makes you feel comfortable and supported. Remember to trust the process and make a decision that feels right for you. This is the start of an incredible adventure!