Finding a college is always a tough decision for students. Many get too overwhelmed by what to choose. How can students find their place to fit in after high school without sacrificing their education?
One major difficulty for students trying to narrow their choices is price. The cost of a college is definitely a factor to look at, especially considering similar programs for students to study. Having an affordable education is crucial to setting up your future without having to worry about too much student debt.
“Make sure that price doesn’t get in the way kind of thing. You can always get scholarships and things like that, but don’t let money be an issue” Mr. Liles, Arlington High School’s Astronomy teacher said.
When considering different forms of education, students get caught up in a dilemma of private vs. public schools in terms of education. The average public college contains anywhere from 5,000 to 15,000 students, while private institutions may only hold up to 1,500 students according to College Board. But what is the difference between the quality of education?
“Probably not too much… Private schools are a lot more expensive these days, so that could be an issue as well. I think that’s kind of the biggest issue I see between private and public, is cost,” Liles said
An important aspect of going to college is seeing what the campus culture is like. Finding a sense of community and belonging to where you will be living will make college an enjoyable experience.
“Definitely the area like where I’m going to be living for a long time was really important to me… I think fitting in where you belong [is important] because I feel like you don’t learn very well if you don’t feel accepted by the people around you. ” Reese Maddy (‘26) said.
College is a unique experience for everyone, it’s important to go to a school that personally aligns with your values in education to help you succeed out of college. Students should follow their own path, and not let others dictate where you go.
“[Think about] individual morals, not just going where friends want to go… [A mistake is] Definitely going off of friends or a relationship and then being stuck somewhere they’re not happy with.” Cadence Leverett (‘26) said. “I would say follow your morals and take your time.”
Overall, it takes time, research, and your own personal preferences to figure out what college will work for you. But remembering why you’re doing it, and for what cause will always be a key indicator and point you in the right direction.
“I felt like I was doing something for myself for once… Do what you want to do for yourself and your future instead of for your friends and your parents.” Maddy said.
