Tuesday, 11 February 2014

College Counseling As A Way To Find The Right Fit

By Jerri Perry


College counseling consists of far more than simply helping a person to choose a college that will accept them. There are thousands of colleges and universities that offer a plethora of programs and opportunities. The task can be daunting if not attempted with clear direction and focus. Enlisting the help of a person trained to assist with the selection process can be very useful.

Standardized test scores and grades are the first step in getting admitted to a university. Once a person has matched their abilities with the expectations of the university than they are left with a number of institutions for which to choose. From the list of potential schools, the advisor can then help the future student to explore other important factors in finding an appropriate choice.

It is important for individuals to be aware of who they are as a person so that they can choose a campus that offers what they desire. The counselor will help the student understand their own aspirations, including desires for campus life and hopes for academic opportunities. The counselor will focus on the student, aiding them in making independent decisions that are uninfluenced by parents or outside sources.

The size of campus is an important consideration. Knowing whether one is drawn to more intimate surroundings or whether they prefer a larger setting where they can easily be lost in a crowd is important. In a smaller environment a student will be noticed more, and often received more attention from classmates and professors. Conversely, large lecture halls where a professor does not know their students on an intimate level are more likely in larger settings.

Also important to consider is location. Students should have an understanding of whether they prefer a small town or big city. Often wonderful institutions are housed around farmland and small towns. This may mean that student's off campus life is limited. However, there are some higher education settings that are built within a large metropolitan city where there is a lot of nightlife and excitement.

Price is always an important factor to consider when making a decision. Students should know where all the sources of tuition are coming from so that they can factor in an expectant family contribution with the cost of admission. This will determine how much money will need to be paid out of pocket to attend.

Before a final decision is made it is important to visit the campus. This will be the last test of fit. Potential students should walk around on their own and absorb their surroundings so that they can gain an understanding about how they feel. Many times what looks good on paper does not feel right in reality. The choice of higher education institution will serve as home away from home for at least four years. Therefore, it is important that the person feel comfortable.

A college counseling advisor is a great resource for individuals trying to find the appropriate university for them. This professional can help guide the individual through every phase of the process, from meeting admissions standards to visiting campus. Using this professional may help the potential student to feel more confident about their decision because they have thoroughly investigated all options.




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