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Finding the right college

So, you're a high school senior and feeling overwhelmed by the whole college application process? You’re not alone. Choosing the right college can be super stressful, especially when you’re not sure where to start. To make the right choice, use these tips, and review the list of colleges below.
Alexandra Popusoi
  min read
·
  Nov 27, 2024

1. Know What You Want

First things first: figure out what you’re looking for in a college. Do you want a big school with lots of activities or a smaller, more personal campus? Are you interested in studying a specific major or field? Think about what’s important to you—like location, campus culture, or academic programs. Make a list of your priorities and use that to guide your search.

2. Do Your Research

Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for, start researching colleges that match your criteria. Check out their websites, read about their programs, and see what current students have to say. You can also use college search engines and tools to compare schools based on things like location, size, and cost. Don’t forget to visit campuses if you can. It’s a great way to get a feel for the environment and see if you can picture yourself there.

3. Consider the Financial Aspect

College can be expensive, so it’s important to think about how you’re going to pay for it. Look into schools that offer good financial aid, scholarships, or other forms of assistance. Make sure you understand the cost of tuition and what your family can afford. You don’t want to fall in love with a college only to realize it’s out of your budget.

4. Talk to People

Get advice from people who know you well. Talk to your family, friends, and teachers about your options. They can offer valuable insights and might even know of colleges you haven’t considered. Also, reach out to college admissions counselors or current students. They can give you a better sense of what life is like at the college and answer any questions you have.

5. Trust Your Gut

At the end of the day, you need to choose a college where you feel comfortable and excited about. Trust your instincts. If you visit a campus and it feels like a place where you can see yourself thriving, that’s a good sign. Don’t just go for the most prestigious name or what everyone else is doing. Choose a school that feels right for you and aligns with your goals and interests.

Choosing the right college is a big decision, but by knowing what you want, doing your research, considering finances, talking to others, and trusting your gut, you’ll be on the right track. Remember, there are lots of great schools out there, and the best one for you is the one where you’ll be happy and successful. Good luck!

Engineering

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

  • Location: Cambridge, MA

  • Why: MIT is renowned for its engineering programs, with cutting-edge research and strong industry connections.

Stanford University

  • Location: Stanford, CA

  • Why: Known for its innovation and proximity to Silicon Valley, Stanford offers top-notch engineering programs with excellent internship opportunities.

University of California, Berkeley

  • Location: Berkeley, CA

  • Why: UC Berkeley’s College of Engineering is highly respected, with strong programs in various engineering disciplines.

2. Business

University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

  • Location: Philadelphia, PA

  • Why: The Wharton School is one of the top business schools globally, known for its rigorous curriculum and extensive alumni network.

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

  • Location: Ann Arbor, MI

  • Why: The Ross School of Business is highly regarded for its comprehensive business education and strong focus on leadership.

New York University (Stern)

  • Location: New York, NY

  • Why: NYU Stern offers excellent business programs with a prime location for internships and job opportunities in finance and business.

3. Computer Science

Carnegie Mellon University

  • Location: Pittsburgh, PA

  • Why: Carnegie Mellon’s School of Computer Science is a leader in the field, known for its research, faculty, and strong industry connections.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

  • Location: Pasadena, CA

  • Why: Caltech offers a rigorous computer science program with a strong focus on research and innovation.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

  • Location: Urbana-Champaign, IL

  • Why: Known for its robust computer science program and significant contributions to the field of technology.

4. Arts and Design

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

  • Location: Providence, RI

  • Why: RISD is one of the leading art and design schools, known for its creative environment and strong industry connections.

Parsons School of Design

  • Location: New York, NY

  • Why: Parsons is renowned for its design programs, with a strong emphasis on innovation and practical experience in one of the world’s fashion capitals.

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

  • Location: Savannah, GA (with additional campuses in Atlanta, Hong Kong, and Lacoste, France)

  • Why: SCAD offers a diverse range of art and design programs and has a strong reputation for its specialized creative disciplines.

5. Medicine

Harvard University

  • Location: Boston, MA

  • Why: Harvard Medical School is one of the top medical schools in the world, offering cutting-edge research and clinical training.

Johns Hopkins University

  • Location: Baltimore, MD

  • Why: Known for its top-tier medical program and research facilities, Johns Hopkins provides excellent opportunities for future medical professionals.

Stanford University

  • Location: Stanford, CA

  • Why: Stanford’s School of Medicine is known for its innovative research and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary education.

6. Social Sciences

University of Chicago

  • Location: Chicago, IL

  • Why: The University of Chicago is known for its rigorous social science programs and strong emphasis on critical thinking and research.

Columbia University

  • Location: New York, NY

  • Why: Columbia offers highly regarded programs in various social science fields, with a strong focus on research and global perspectives.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

  • Location: Los Angeles, CA

  • Why: UCLA provides strong social science programs with a focus on research, public policy, and community engagement.

7. Environmental Science

Stanford University

  • Location: Stanford, CA

  • Why: Stanford’s interdisciplinary approach to environmental science and its focus on sustainability make it a top choice for this major.

University of California, Berkeley

  • Location: Berkeley, CA

  • Why: UC Berkeley’s environmental science programs are highly respected, with a strong emphasis on research and activism.

Warren Wilson College

  • Location: Asheville, NC

  • Why: Known for its hands-on approach to environmental studies and strong focus on sustainability and conservation efforts.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other fantastic colleges out there. Make sure to visit campuses, talk to current students, and do thorough research to find the school that best fits your needs and goals.