Choosing a College where most will spend at least the next four years of your life is for many the first 100% life altering and changing decision any young adult has to make. For me being a natural perfectionist selecting a University was a nightmare. It started about my senior year which is later than most students begin their search, I had grown up in line to attend either school my parents' families had attended, Texas A&M and The University of Oklahoma(OU). Things changed, however; when I had started to grow as an individual and realized I was not a fit for either school whatsoever, not to misinform people interested in these schools because my families schools of heritage are both great schools to receive further education. When I realized mid-senior year I had no desire to attend either of these schools I decided to attend community college to find a school for me all while continuing my education at a cheaper price.
When starting my search for "the perfect college" I did not realize there is no such thing but instead I learned I needed to find the perfect college for ME. In doing so there are several areas to pay close attention to in looking at a University but here a just a few that top the list, in no particular order.
THE LIFESTYLE:
To those who are looking at a school near or far in distance most Universities require all students to live on campus at least their freshman year, which is a great opportunity to meet all types of people and to really get involved in campus life. With this being said I learned on my numerous college tours to pay close attention to the people you interact with along with the activities that are offered and are highly funded on campus, activities with more money generally are activities that obtain more interest from their students. Although the main reason of college is obviously furthering one's education, happiness and enjoyment correlate with one's grades, and ones happiness in college typically correlates with life outside of classes.
THE EDUCATION:
Now DO NOT let this idea stress you out if you are like me or many of my friends I did not know what I wanted to do with my life in terms of education after high school I just knew I wanted to pursue a bachelor's degree. With that being said having a general idea of a study that interests you is always good to keep in mind especially whenever you are touring schools. Never be afraid to ask tour guides questions about the different colleges and fields of study the school has to offer and where they stand among other schools, after all, it's your time and money going into wherever you chose to further your education. If the tour guide cannot provide you with the information you demand they can surely turn you to someone who can.
THE COMMUNITY:
Something many people do not pay attention to is the surrounding area of where their school is placed. If I have learned anything about going to The University of Arkansas is that being involved off campus not only makes the town feel more like home but helps you establish friendships and connections outside of campus and can help build your resume. When searching for a career with a diploma employers not only look at your grades but your resume and how well-rounded of a person you have become over the years of your studies.
In Searching to further your education, be mindful of these things but equally as important have fun, you live one life and should enjoy each stage to the fullest.
