|
| Step 1: Identify Priorities. Check out the curriculum, size, location, admission requirements, cost, quality of education, facilities, athletics, campus life, campus security, retention and graduation rates. |
| Step 2: Narrow School Choices. Compare the likes and dislikes of each school on your list; group school choices by your change of being admitted; make your final list; get and stay organized. |
| Step 3: Visit Schools. Do some prep work; schedule your visit at least two weeks in advance; set up interviews with faculty and admissions staff; take the campus tour; attend information sessions; ask lots of questions; trust your instincts, take notes, and bring a camera; send thank you notes. |
| Other ideas: Compare target schools online. Attend college fairs. Online practice tests. School visit checklist. |
| Some good questions: What type of financial aid packages does the school offer? Are there a variety of options? What tuition increases are planned in the next few years, if any? What has been the average tuition increase in years past? What kind of work opportunities are available? How easy is it to get the courses you want at the times that are convenient for you? How does the school help graduates find jobs? What percentage of graduates from the school find jobs in their field of study? How many computers/computer labs are there? Are they up-to-date and accessible to all students? What is the retention rate (how many students come back after their freshman year)? What is the classroom environment like? Is there much interaction between teacher and student? |
|
|