The college decision for many seniors seems to be one of the most crucial decisions they have had to make in their past 18 years. By choosing a school, you are shaping the future and the new opportunities that await you. As someone who has navigated this journey, I have learned the key factors that go into making the right decision for yourself.
Exploring your interests and career goals is one of the most important steps when deciding on a college. After you get an idea of what interests you, research and find colleges with good programs to help accommodate your major and help you get the education you deserve.
During my Junior year, I was not even sure what I wanted to major in, that’s when my research began. The counselor meetings helped me get an Idea of what I liked and didn’t like. Taking the career tests on Naviance showed me all the possibilities and showed what career would work best due to how I answered the questions.
Another critical factor in deciding the best fit for you is the campus culture and environment. Each college has a different atmosphere, which can influence your overall experience. Touring and going to the college visits at school helped me get more familiar with the campuses and how they operate. It is also a good opportunity to ask questions and get more information about the college. The college you choose can make or break your overall experience, so you must do your research and make sure this is a school where you can thrive.
Lastly, one of the most important key factors is the financial aspect. College is expensive, so figuring out what you can do to save some money during this transition will help tremendously. Do your research. Financial aid is always a good idea to fill out, and researching scholarship opportunities can aid in reducing the cost of these expensive schools. These are things you should consider doing sooner rather than later. Ask your parents to help you figure this out. This is something that they have gone through before, whether it was with one of your siblings or themselves.
My advice to younger students would be to take the time to reflect on these key factors and prioritize what you think truly matters. College is not only about getting a degree; it is about making new connections and forming your path in life. It is important to figure out what you want and what will make you successful in the future.
