Choosing Where to Apply to College
Attending Columbia University as someone from the Bay Area was a scary change from home, and yet, it was one of the best decisions I ever made. Current high school seniors are busy working on college applications right now, and with the vast array of colleges out there, choosing what college to apply and later attend can seem daunting now. So, from one Bay Area native to another, I’d like to share what I learned from my application process and my college experience.
Dive Deep into Academics
While many factors contribute to the quintessential college experience, it is unsurprising that academics is one of the most important components. I was captivated by Columbia’s promise — a blend of its Core Curriculum, the allure of its distinguished faculty, and the myriad of research opportunities that were available to undergraduate students. As you research colleges, dig deep into the school’s curriculum.
Is the institution known for its prowess in your preferred area of study? Do its research programs resonate with your academic aspirations? Are there any global programs or study abroad opportunities that could help you gain additional perspectives? Explore the faculty’s work, the unique facets of their curriculum, and special programs that the college may offer. If you can, also work to get firsthand accounts from current students and alumni. Some schools offer programs where you can connect with their current and past students.
Location, Location, Location
The location of your college isn’t just a pin on a map; it’s the setting of your transformative years, significantly influencing your social life and daily campus experiences. Whether it’s the weather, the proximity to museums and other cultural establishments, or closeness to activities and hobbies that you enjoy, the place you spend the next four years plays a pivotal role in your life.
And beyond its immediate surroundings, your college’s location influences your future network and connections. Certain cities have higher concentrations of specific industries, and the proximity of a college to a certain industry hub will naturally have more opportunities in those industries. For example, during job recruiting employers with headquarters or offices in the nearest city will actively recruit on your campus due to the proximity. This makes it much easier to network with people when you are close to those employers and consequently their employees live.
Though a lot has changed as a result of the pandemic, proximity still is an important component of employment outcomes! In essence, there is a tangible link between where you study and where you might land your first job after graduation. Though I wouldn’t say location is super important or should be a deal breaker, I would recommend considering whether the region or the city in proximity fits with your preferences.
Look Closely into Campus Life
Extracurriculars and the breadth of clubs will play a pivotal role in campus life, offering a balance to the rigors of academics and job searches. The breadth of activities available, from debate teams, music bands, professional clubs, to dance organizations, provides students with a myriad of opportunities to pursue their passions or even uncover new interests.
I would recommend looking into not just the club and organization catalog of each college, but also searching through college newspapers and reaching out to students or alumni to hear their experiences. Their experiences can offer a genuine peek into what life on that campus feels like.
Selecting a college is akin to piecing together a jigsaw puzzle; each piece must seamlessly fit, creating a coherent picture. While the allure of prestigious institutions or the opinions of peers can sway your decision, remember that authenticity is key. Your choice should resonate with who you are and who you aspire to be.
By weighing the academic rigor, geographical setting, range of extracurriculars, and the unique culture and traditions of the college, you have the baseline to make informed decisions about which colleges to apply to. After all, college is more than just a branded certificate. It’s about the stories you’ll tell, the memories you’ll cherish, and the personal growth that you’ll experience.
Whether you are a high school senior or an underclassmen beginning to think about the next steps, I hope my thoughts can provide some assistance to help you think about college and beyond.
– Mentor Daniel