Choosing the Right College for You

Hi,

I’m Alix and it’s my mission to help as many of the next generation as possible choose careers that meet their passion and purpose, making them happy and fulfilled adults. Providing support and hand holding where they may not have any along the journey.

When I was at the crossroads you’re at now I had no one to advise me on the difference each available path would make on my future so, if you need extra or any support I am offering you hints and tips on what to consider. Be a ‘virtual mentor’ for you if you like.

Today we’re looking at choosing the right college - a significant decision that can shape your future career, which in turn, will shape your life. With a multitude to choose from, finding the best fit can be both exciting and overwhelming.

However, armed with the right information and a clear understanding of your priorities, you can navigate this process with confidence. Hint - reading this article is a good step(!)

We’ll look at questions you can ask both of yourself and of the college. Help you identify the one that’s the right fit not just to give you the education you want/need, but the right social surroundings and support to move forward on your career path.

So, grab a snack (coffee and biscuits - or cake – I love cake!) and let’s go...

A step back…

Your very first step is to understand yourself, your aspirations and your goals.

When you chose your options at school two years ago, I hope you read my book ‘I am Choosing my Options’.

In it I detailed how to narrow down the choices in front of you, how to identify which subjects would keep your interest while studying for your GCSEs.

Do these subjects still hold your interest? Will they still make you keen to go to lessons?

The next step of your education will build on what you’ve learnt so far. Give you a deeper understanding of the subject.

You’ll narrow down even further which topic(s) you’ll be studying, leaving you with more time to devote to it so it’s important that you’re facing lessons that interest you.

Will they lead you to your best adult life? Give you the opportunity to be happy both at work and home?

If my book wasn’t available then, see if your school or local library has a copy and read the chapters on ‘Passion’ and ‘Purpose’.

Consider your career ambitions, values, and personal preferences. What draws you, interests you now?

Which subjects make you excited to see what you’ll learn today?

Keen to find out which bits of the puzzle you’ll learn that fit together to make the whole picture?

Read the chapter ‘Why, How and What Happens When you set Goals’ and take time out to know yours. Or read my article on the same subject under the FAQ’s – facts section.

Once you’re sure you know what you want/need to study to give you the life you want and reviewed your goals setting out how to get there, it’s time to consider colleges.

First let’s consider the academic side.

Academic programs…

Research is crucial.

Choosing a college that has the best education results in your chosen subject will not be the right one if it doesn’t also fit with your personal and emotional needs.

But let’s start with your education choices.

Create a list of colleges that align with your preferred path, ie are there subject-specific colleges for you.

Are you keen on entering the media? From adverts I hear when driving to work there are definitely subject-specific colleges for this option. What about science? The arts?

If not, look for colleges that include strong teaching in the subject.

These will have specialist teachers and facilities and, presumably, will devote funds to that particular subject, keeping up with new equipment and/or ideas. Have the latest publications by professionals

on the subject, or articles on the latest inventions in, for instance, electrical installations or space exploration and whether a planet is still classed as a planet!

Look at the college's reputation generally, and then in your desired field of study, and take account of its overall academic standing.

Are they strong in your chosen field of study?

Check the faculty's involvement in research or your industry.

Do they provide opportunities for research, internships, apprenticeships?

Do they have contacts with important people in the field or local firms needing apprentices?

A college with a comprehensive and reputable academic program and contacts, can significantly enhance your educational experience and prospects for university, a job, or starting out on your own, making the next step easier.

Class sizes and student-tutor ratio…

Class sizes can influence the quality of your education and the level of personal attention you receive.

A lower student-tutor ratio often indicates that teachers can dedicate more time to individual students. Get to know them, spot if something becomes a challenge, giving them the chance to step in and assist sooner.

Sitting at the back of a class to avoid the teacher’s gaze should not be what you want.

Note: I was at a student workshop once and the person behind me couldn’t see what the teacher was demonstrating. She started to cry but was too timid to put her hand up so that the teacher knew.

Being older I brought it to the teacher’s attention but it’s sad to think she may never have understood what she had to do. That could be a career breaker.

I want you to be keen to learn, want to want to be at the front so you don’t miss anything.

Never be afraid to put your hand up and answer questions because you know that, if you get it wrong, it’s your opportunity to learn the right answer and you won’t go through the whole course believing one thing when it should be another, possibly affecting the next linked thing you learn. And, you never know, that one question could come up later in an exam and you’ll be able to ace it.

Also, your colleagues could well need it explained more too. Teachers don’t know unless you tell them.

If you thrive in smaller, interactive classes where you can build relationships with your tutors, prioritise colleges with favourable student-teacher ratios.

Visit the campus…

Explore their websites, programmes, faculty, campus facilities and extracurricular activities.

The campus culture is likely to be a huge change for you (for starters no more school uniform!)

Whenever possible, visit the campuses on your shortlist. Walking around the campus, where possible attending lectures or workshops, and interacting with students and teachers, can provide a first-hand feel for the environment.

On-line pictures and brochures will only show happy, laughing, students. Going to the college will give you a more realistic idea of whether students are happy or stressed.

Pay attention to your gut feelings during the visit – does the campus appeal to you, does it make you uncomfortable? Are the students open and friendly, or withdrawn?

Consider whether you'd thrive in a competitive environment, or would your very nature prefer a more collaborative and supportive community?

Look for insights into the atmosphere, social scene and overall vibe of the campus.

Check out what they wear? It would be nice to fit in on day one, personalising your appearance with quirky additions once fellow students know you.

Would you prefer a large campus with diverse offerings or a smaller, more intimate environment?

Again, identifying your own priorities will help you narrow down your options.

Diversity and inclusion…

A diverse and inclusive campus fosters a richer learning environment and prepares you for a globalised world.

Research the college's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Are there clubs, or programmes that promote cultural understanding and inclusivity?

These can help prepare you for the job market.

Extracurricular activities and resources…

And, of course, education isn't limited to the classroom.

Extracurricular activities, clubs, and organisations can enrich your college experience and help you develop essential adult skills.

Whether you're interested in sports, arts, community service, or a specific hobby, ensure the college offers opportunities that fit with your interests.

Internship and job placement opportunities…

One of the ultimate goals of higher education is to prepare you for a successful career.

Investigate the college's track record in helping students secure internships and job placements. Does the college have partnerships with reputable companies or organisations?

Consider colleges with strong career services departments.

Financial considerations…

Are there expenses linked to your college choice? If so, while a college's prestige might be appealing, consider your financial situation.

Research scholarships, grants, and the financial aid opportunities offered by each institution.

Calculate the potential student loan burden and weigh it against future earning potential.

Lifestyle practicalities…

Taking note of the college’s location and any other practical factors that may impact your lifestyle is key. Remember, you’ll be studying there for a considerable amount of time.

Most schools these days encourage students to live within walking distance.

A college is unlikely to be that close and you don’t want to struggle just to be on time for classes every day, increasing your stress level, so make sure the journey there is doable with a minimum amount of fuss and bother.

Every moment you miss in class was an opportunity to learn something more.

Support services…

Transitioning to college life is not only exciting but can also be challenging.

You’re likely to mature quickly from having to take responsibility for both your education in making sure you’re on time and from simple changes like getting yourself to a college outside your area. You’ll be meeting new people and, as we all know, there are all kinds of personalities out there which can give you exciting opportunities to grow but can also occasionally present challenges.

Look into the support services offered, such as academic advice, mental health counselling and tutoring.

These services can make a significant difference in your overall well-being and success.

Responsibility…

You’ll have more free time as the college gives you more responsibility, preparing you for the workforce.

You’ll be responsible for turning up to lessons on time, sitting in your place, pen and notebook ready before the teacher arrives, just as when you go out to work you’ll be responsible for arriving on time ready to start the moment you’re due to be paid from.

You’ll have free time to study and access to books and computers. The college will expect you to use this time and their resources wisely.

You should definitely be studying subjects you want to learn, want to go to the library to read up more and, remember, although your results will impact the college and its reputation, much more importantly, they’ll definitely impact your future.

Note: I would just caution that the more time you devote to learning now the easier your adult life will be and I only caution you because this is something I never knew myself at your age, but that’s a whole different story…

Trust your instincts…

Ultimately, trust your instincts. Listen to what your inner voice is telling you about each college.

Consider all the information you've gathered, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the college that aligns most closely with your aspirations and values.

Knowing you’re studying the right course(s) in a college that you’ve chosen can give you a good grounding for focussing on subjects you’re excited about.

Conclusion…

In conclusion, choosing the right college for you requires a combination of thorough research, self-awareness, and careful consideration of various factors.

It's not just about the prestige of the institution but about finding a place where you can grow academically, socially, and personally.

By following the steps outlined above, you can confidently make a decision that sets the foundation for a successful and fulfilling educational journey.

I’d love to hear how you’re getting on and, where possible, if we can help more.

Lastly, I wanted to both wish you luck and say that I know you can do it.

Success is within your grasp - good luck!