Going off to college can be an exhilarating time, as long as you've done your homework first. One way to alleviate as much stress as possible is to make sure that you've chosen a college that will be a good fit for your needs and expectations. A campus visit is the best way to do just that. Take along this list of questions, both academic and social, to look into while there.
1. What does the college do to help freshmen acclimate to college life? If first-year students live in dorms, for example, are there advisers on each floor available to go to for help? Academically, are advisers provided for each freshman? Do full-fledged professors teach entry-level students? What is the class size for freshmen?
2. What is the complete cost of obtaining your degree? Ask what financial aid programs would be at your disposal and how to go about applying for them. You should also inquire about job opportunities within the university and keep your eye open locally for student employment.
3. Classroom aside, what is the general lifestyle for students in the community? Do you see plenty of things to do? Can you tell where you might shop or do laundry? How about restaurants and sporting facilities? Do most students walk, take public transportation or would you need to bring a car? If so, is there ample parking?
4. What is the success rate in finding jobs after graduation? Does the university help new graduates to network with alumni? Is there pro-active alumni support to guide graduates as they segue into their chosen fields?
In addition to traditional information finding, don't forget that current students can be a big help in filling in some blanks for you. When you're out and about, feel free to approach a student or two and ask about their experience as an entering freshman. Chances are they'll have a tidbit or two that will steer you toward a better cafeteria meal plan for you or a dorm that best suits your interests.
Once you get home, review your experience carefully and then follow you instincts. Hopefully you'll have a pretty good idea of what college life will be like at each of the campuses you visited and your decision will come a bit easier. Good luck!
1. What does the college do to help freshmen acclimate to college life? If first-year students live in dorms, for example, are there advisers on each floor available to go to for help? Academically, are advisers provided for each freshman? Do full-fledged professors teach entry-level students? What is the class size for freshmen?
2. What is the complete cost of obtaining your degree? Ask what financial aid programs would be at your disposal and how to go about applying for them. You should also inquire about job opportunities within the university and keep your eye open locally for student employment.
3. Classroom aside, what is the general lifestyle for students in the community? Do you see plenty of things to do? Can you tell where you might shop or do laundry? How about restaurants and sporting facilities? Do most students walk, take public transportation or would you need to bring a car? If so, is there ample parking?
4. What is the success rate in finding jobs after graduation? Does the university help new graduates to network with alumni? Is there pro-active alumni support to guide graduates as they segue into their chosen fields?
In addition to traditional information finding, don't forget that current students can be a big help in filling in some blanks for you. When you're out and about, feel free to approach a student or two and ask about their experience as an entering freshman. Chances are they'll have a tidbit or two that will steer you toward a better cafeteria meal plan for you or a dorm that best suits your interests.
Once you get home, review your experience carefully and then follow you instincts. Hopefully you'll have a pretty good idea of what college life will be like at each of the campuses you visited and your decision will come a bit easier. Good luck!
About the Author:
Julie Clark Robinson is a staff writer for an educational guidance center which develops online college and online degree websites.
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