Applying to colleges will be one of the most exciting times in your life. However, there are a few things to consider before leaving the comfort and security of the nest. Although it’s thrilling to imagine yourself finally off on your own without a curfew and the constant watchful eye of an adult, leaving home can also be very nerve-wracking. So, on your next college tour or research venture, consider the following:
1. Size of student body
When it comes to the size of a school’s student body, size matters and bigger is not always better. Most classes in large schools, especially the required pre-requisite courses, are taught in large lecture halls with 300 to sometimes as many as 500 students in attendance. Classes taught in lecture halls are similar to going to church; sitting for an hour and a half with a mass of strangers and being lectured at by someone whom you have probably never spoken to personally. You are merely seen as a number, not a name, and your attendance is usually unnoticed and irrelevant.
However, smaller schools also have their downsides. If you are one who enjoys getting lost in the masses and going unnoticed, then a smaller school is not for you. These types of school are much like high school in which everyone knows your name and business and avoiding someone is done with great difficulty. But, on the positive, all of your teachers will know your name and always make time to meet with you, even though skipping classes is not an option as you will be missed.
2. Size of campus
Much like the number of students attending your future school, the actual size of the campus is also important. A large school is not for you if you are directionally challenged or out of shape. The perks of a small campus is that there is usually little to no rushing between classes or navigational stress during your first week. But, a lot of walking can help you fight those Freshman 15.
3. Food
Moving to a new place and being away from Mom’s cooking can be frightening, especially if you’re a picky eater or are on a special diet. Larger schools are often more equipped at catering to the picky eater thanks to the thousands of students from all over the world.
You should also look into the meal plan options, if any, that each school offers. Some schools offer an unlimited meal plan and while this sounds like heaven on earth, this could be dangerous. If you don’t eat as much as most, save your parents some money and choose a more modest meal plan. While most schools require freshmen to be on the meal plan, if given the option don’t make the mistake of locking yourself in for a year of sad taste buds.
4. Clubs/Activities
Next, make sure your school also caters to your extra curricular preferences. If fitness is your passion, make sure the campus gym suits your needs. Interested in a particular sport? See if your future school has at least an intramural team. College is tough and everyone needs a break from time to time.
5. Distance from home
Personally, I think this is the most important thing to consider when deciding on a college. If you’re close with your family and choose a school on the other side of the country, chances are you will transfer by the end of the year (if you make it that long). Also, if all of your friends stay in state and you decide not to, you most likely won’t have time to visit them as often as you think.
However, maybe you want to move far away and feed your adventurous spirit by experiencing somewhere unknown. Exploring a city you have never been before and meeting new people will broaden and deeper your world view.
Making the correct decision on what college to attend is not always easy, particularly if you are fortunate to have several options. Take the time and effort to do the research. If you’re where you are meant to be the years will fly by and you will look back on that time as some of the best years of your life.
