Current vs. college environment

Urban vs. suburban vs. rural

Recreational and cultural activities in the area

Opportunities for off-campus job or local internship

Students should make a list of their must-haves, then research college locations online

Students should create a list of colleges to visit

Students can take virtual tours before they even set foot on campus

Learning style: classroom learner or learn from experience?

Want to conduct original research?

Semester or quarter system?

Learn well in big classes? Small classes?

Will you be able to add a minor or double major if that will help you reach your goals?

Does the university invest in professional academic advisors to help you review your options and stay on track?

Will you have opportunities to apply what you have learned before you even graduate?

Try to contact the department or program they’re interested in at each of their potential universities.

Check out what kind of communities already exist on campus.

Students should challenge themselves and branch out, in addition to learning about their major.

Students will take responsibility for themselves and their studies.

What happens when they need a hand?

Is there a safety net?

Consider:

• Tutoring

• Advising

• Career Counseling

• Enrichment Programs

• Diversity and Cultural Groups

• Health and Counseling Programs

• Proactive Orientations