Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions most families will make — right up there with buying a new house, moving, or getting a vehicle. There are many options available, and it can be overwhelming to narrow down the choices to make a decision. Knowing what factors to evaluate can help ease the weight of choosing where to go to school. Parents can also play a critical role in helping their students find the college that fits their needs and goals. This article breaks down some key factors to consider when evaluating college options and deciding where to spend the next four years.
Academic Programs and Majors
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a college is the range of academic programs and majors. Parents should encourage their children to explore colleges with strong programs in their areas of interest. If you know your child has a unique interest, make sure that the colleges they're looking at offer a viable pathway to get to that career trajectory. Additionally, consider whether the college offers a variety of majors so that students have the flexibility to change their major if needed. For more resources on choosing your major, read these Newsroom articles:
Campus Culture and Environment
The campus culture and environment can greatly impact a student's college experience. For many liberal arts schools especially, campus culture is built around the school's mission or motto. For religiously affiliated liberal arts colleges, students will experience a more religious-based education — perhaps with core courses focusing on some aspect of religion. When your student is considering campus culture, parents should urge them to take into consideration factors such as the size of the campus, the overall atmosphere (this can be accomplished on a campus tour in person or over video), and the student-to-faculty ratio. It is also important to take into account the location of the college and whether it offers a supportive and inclusive community for students.
Extracurricular Activities and Opportunities
In addition to academics, parents should also consider the extracurricular activities and opportunities available at different colleges to their students. Extracurriculars and other opportunities can include clubs, sports teams, internship programs, and study abroad opportunities. For many liberal arts colleges, clubs will be an integral component of student life. Parents should encourage their children to choose a college that offers a diverse range of extracurricular activities that align with their interests and goals. For more information on college extracurriculars, read these Newsroom articles:
The Best College Extracurriculars to Strengthen Your Resume
The Importance of Participating in College Extracurriculars
Career Services and Alumni Network
Another important factor to consider when choosing a college is the availability of career services and the strength of the alumni network. Campus career centers should be a place for students to receive resume reviews, interview prep, internship and career guidance. Similarly, alumni networks help students connect with working professionals who are alumni of the college or university. Parents should research whether the college offers career counseling, job placement services, and networking opportunities. A strong alumni network can also provide valuable connections and opportunities for students after graduation.
Campus Facilities and Resources
The facilities and resources available on campus can greatly impact a student's overall college experience. Parents should consider factors such as the quality of the library, labs, computer centers, and other academic resources. It is also important to consider the availability of housing, dining options, recreational facilities, and other amenities on campus. If your child's campus is rurally located, or the college is the town, consider whether there's a grocery store near campus, a hospital, a dentist, or other places for your child to get involved as they progress in their college journey. If your child's campus is in a more urban area or a city, some campus amenities like a gym or library might be less of a concern because students can find these nearby.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
College can be expensive, so it is important to consider the financial aspect when evaluating college options. Parents and students should have candid discussions ahead of time about the affordability of college. Remember, the cost of tuition is separate from the cost of attendance, which will determine costs for room and board and other daily necessities. Parents should research the cost of tuition, room and board, and other expenses at different colleges very carefully.
If your child is exploring a college close to home, for example, that doesn't mean that they will be able to live off campus. Some colleges require all freshman students to live on campus and purchase a meal plan. Make sure you fully understand each school's specific requirements. It is also important to consider the availability of financial aid and scholarships to help offset the cost of attendance. For more information on college funding and associated costs, read these Newsroom articles:
Accreditation and Reputation
It is important to choose a college that is accredited and has a good reputation. Accreditation ensures that the college meets certain standards of quality and academic rigor. Parents should research the accreditation status of different colleges and consider factors such as graduation rates, retention rates, and job placement rates. A college with a strong reputation can also provide added credibility and value to a student's degree. If you're unsure about accreditation, a simple Google search or phone call to the school can provide more information.
Campus Safety and Support Services
Safety is often a top priority for parents when choosing a college for their children. Parents should research the campus safety policies and procedures at different colleges, as well as the availability of support services such as a counseling center, health services, and emergency services if needed. If these things aren't accessible on campus, ensure they are accessible and easy to get to outside campus.
Diversity and Inclusivity
Parents should also consider the culture of diversity and inclusivity at different colleges. Especially if your child is first generation or a part of a minority group, it's important for your child's campus to have resources and community available for these students. Exposure to different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives will positively shape your child's growth during their college experience. Parents should research whether the college has a diverse student body, faculty, and staff, as well as programs and initiatives that promote inclusivity and equity on campus.
Personal Fit and Gut Feeling
At the end of the day, the most important factor to consider when choosing a college is personal fit and gut feeling. If your child is leaning toward a college that meets all their requirements, but the decision doesn't seem like it makes sense to you, get curious and ask them to explain more. Sometimes, deciding on a campus really is just a feeling. Parents should encourage their children to visit different colleges and speak with current students to get a feel for the campus culture and environment. Some colleges might have prospective student Discords or other ways to connect via social media. They might also have Zoom's for students to get to know campus representatives before they make their decision. Ultimately, it's important for students to take ownership of their college decision and choose a campus where they feel comfortable, supported, and excited about their future.
Choosing a college is a decision that requires careful consideration across various aspects of academics, community, and culture. Taking into account each of the aspects listed in this article will help students find a college that aligns with their long-term social, academic, and career goals. With the right research and some guidance, parents can work with their students to make an informed and confident decision about their future college home.
