With so many colleges and universities across the country to choose from, it can be challenging to find the one you want to attend. There are many things you can consider in your decision such as location, majors offered, and what student life is like. Here are five key questions you should ask when deciding which school is the best fit for you.
1. What is the average class size?
The smaller the class size, the more opportunity you will get to interact with your professors and your classmates. At Walla Walla University, more than two-thirds of classes have fewer than 20 students. In small class environments, students have strong relationships with their professors that help build robust academic foundations.
2. What kinds of opportunities and extracurricular activities are available?
Your college experience encompasses so much more than just academics. Activities you might want to look for include intramural sports, residence hall activities, music ensembles, drama productions, and more. Many students also hope to find a way to make an impact on their campus and give back to others. Perhaps you care strongly about genuine Christian community or leadership opportunities. To find a campus that offers the right environment for you, try checking colleges’ social media channels, talking with a current student, or scheduling a campus visit.
3. What financial aid is offered to help me pay for school?
College is an investment in your future. It does come at a cost, but many colleges and universities provide their students with generous financial aid packages to help fund tuition. For example, more than 96 percent of students at WWU qualify for financial aid. Schools might also offer a variety of student jobs that can help you pay for tuition and gain real world experience.
4.What is it like to attend school in the college’s city?
If you are moving to a new location for college, it is important to learn more about what the city offers and what is accessible in the area. You may want to find activities, internships, and volunteer opportunities off campus, so you should research or visit the area to understand what it has to offer. If you are interested in attending WWU, check out this list of activities and must-visit places in Walla Walla, Washington.
5.What support services are available for students?
No one is expected to handle college completely on their own, so knowing what resources are offered by each school you’re considering will help you make a decision that supports your needs. Some important services to look for are health and counseling; career and educational support; academic tutoring; freshman mentorship; diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts; and support for international students.
Posted Jan. 22, 2024
