May 21, 2012

Sizing Up A College

At this point you should have a reasonable list of colleges to look through. We should reemphasize the importance of organization. Take good notes and start to separate the colleges into categories that make since to you. Let's take a closer look at the colleges to get a better idea of the quality of the schools. Here are a few things to look for

Special Attention Considerations:

 

Graduation Rate – This is an important number to look at. A high graduation rate will tell you that students who attend here liked the environment and had a successful college experience. A low graduation rate indicates that students who attended probably didn't have a good experience. Be careful though when determining what this number means though. Some schools such as community colleges are stepping stone schools whose students often transfer after their required classes are out of the way.

Returning Freshman Rate – Like the graduation rate, this number indicates how many freshman like the school.

Number of Faculty - This percentage indicates how large your classes might be, the ability to keep the school clean, and ability of the school to address campus problems.

Average GPA and SAT / ACT of Incoming Freshman – These numbers let you get an idea of the quality student the school is looking for. It also lets you identify the quality of student you will likely be surrounded by.

Percentage of Students Accepted – This number lets you gage the probability of acceptance. More selective schools will have a lower percentage.

Other Considerations

Here are some other considerations to look at when looking at colleges:

Athletic Program -Does this college have a sports program that meets the student's needs (as an athlete or a spectator)?

Talent Program -Does this college have a talent program that meets the student's needs (theater, newspaper, debate team)?

Special Programs -Does this college have special programs or facilities that the student needs or must have (learning disabilities, special medical facilities, etc.)?

Co-op Programs -Does this college have an academic co-op (study/work) program in the student's major that can reduce your college costs and help the student achieve employment after graduation?

Job Placement -Does this college have a Placement Office that places a high number of students in jobs prior to graduation?

Religion -Does this college have a religious program that fits your needs?

Faculty With PhDs -Does this college have a high number of faculty with PhDs?

Campus Setting -Is this college located in a desirable area or neighborhood?

Safety- Does this college's campus have adequate security and a good safety reputation?

Alcohol/Drug Policy -Does this college's alcohol/drug policy fit your requirement?

Student Body Reputation -Does this college's student body reputation fit the student's

personality?

Diversity -Does the student mix at this college fit the student's personality?

Greek System-Does the role that fraternities and sororities play at this college fit the student's needs?

Housing- Is this college's housing (and housing policy) satisfactory to your needs?

Food -Is the on-campus food at this college satisfactory to your needs?

Weather -Is this college located in a climate that's satisfactory to your needs?