We've reached that exciting time of year when students are starting to make their college decisions!
We want your student to feel confident in their decision, so we’ve developed a list of five things for them to consider when choosing their university. Our goal is to help your student find the right fit before committing, so if your student is having a difficult time deciding, be sure to discuss this list.
1. What is important to you about your future university?
This might sound like a vague question, but it’s imperative! Is it important that they have your major? Does this university have plenty of activities outside the classroom? Sports? Campus life? Diversity? If it’s important to you, take note of what that university has to offer and choose a school that shares your values and interests.
2. Location, location, location!
Let’s face it, you’re going to be living on-campus or near campus for the next few years. You want to make sure the location, both where the university is settled and also the surrounding environment, is a place you want to call home. Do you prefer a rural location? Big city? Or an award-winning college town? Who knows, you might end up sticking around after graduation for your first job!
Discover Kent State's "Golden" Location
3. Have you visited campus?
If the answer is no, try to see it for yourself! Putting yourself on campus brings about so many emotions. Are they good, bad, or indifferent? Sometimes, you have to see it to believe it!
4. What student support services do you need?
How important are wellness programs, mental health resources, academic support, identity support, volunteer opportunities and student employment to you? Find a university that offers as many services you need in order to feel supported. Attending a university that prioritizes student support services is critical to your success as a student.
Learn more about student services
5. What is your mindset going into college?
Are you determined, resilient, nervous or excited? Do you want your college experience to be focused on trying new things, academic success or making professional connections? Your mindset will determine your success in a new environment. When you find yourself on campus, do you feel like this environment will foster that mindset and help you grow as an individual?
Discussing this list with your student and exploring all that their university has to offer can help make this big decision feel just a bit smaller! Talking through what truly matters to your student will help them discover the right fit.