College

Why College?

New experiences, people & places! Whether you go to a community college close to home, a state school a few hours away, or a private school in another state, you will have the opportunity to meet people and make friends from different places. In college, students have the chance to take classes in subjects that interest them and even study abroad in another country if they want.

Money. Education pays! College graduates earn 60 percent more than a high school graduate, and those with advanced degrees earn two to three times as much as high school graduates. The jobs that require a college degree are more likely to have benefits and retirement plans, as well.

Independence. In college, students have control over the classes they want to take and how they spend their time. You might live at home, move into a college residence hall or dorm, or an apartment or house with friends.

Discover passions. Students can get involved on campus with student clubs, athletics, and community service. There are also hundreds or even thousands of courses to choose from at college.

Job security & satisfaction. Individuals with college degrees are more likely to have and keep their jobs, with lower unemployment rates than those with only a high school degree. In addition, having a college degree gives individuals more jobs to choose from and the opportunity to choose a career that is interesting and meaningful.

Choosing a college is a complex and often overwhelming process that requires students and families to know about the different types of schools, Admission requirements, Financial Aid, Scholarships and more.

During high school students will spent some time thinking about different types of careers and explore what sort of education beyond high school is necessary for that path. That exploration will help students figure out what school is the best fit.

The more the school is matched with your interests and needs, the better fit it is. The better the fit, the likelier it is that you will stay and complete school successfully.

When choosing a school:

DO THINK ABOUT:

  • Areas of study offered
  • Support services available
  • Campus atmosphere
  • Location & distance from home
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Financial Aid offered
  • Graduation and employment rate
  • Housing options
  • Average class size
  • What you want from the college experience

DON'T THINK ABOUT:

  • School colors or mascot
  • Friends are going
  • Boy/girlfriend are going
  • Good sports team (unless you plan on playing that sport)