University of San Francisco Top Questions

It is tempting to approach choosing a college with the idea that there is one perfect college out there for everyone. But in my experience, finding the right campus has more to do with an open mind and willingness to try new things., rather than finding the college equivalent of a "soulmate". Those students who pick a college because they think it will open doors for them oftentimes forget how important it is to open doors for themselves. Taking an active role in defining your college experience will better equip you to see what you really need from others and what you can provide for yourself.

Deciding where you want to attend college can be difficult because there are several factors to consider. How far away from home and location is one important factor. A student must decide whether a college located at the center of a busy city or a college surrounded by huge parks and small neighborhoods is the right choice. Cost is another factor to consider and whether the school offers enough scholarships, loans, and grants for its students. The size of a classroom also makes a big difference because smaller sized classrooms tend to be more personal and interactive since professors are able to give their attention to each student in the room. Resources provided by the college, such as study areas, computer labs, tutoring services, up-to-date technology equipment, and library resources should also be considered. In regards to the social aspect of college life, students may want to look at what sports teams, honor socities, fraternities, sororities or other extracurricular activities that are available at the school. Lastly, it is important to visit each of the colleges that the student intends on applying to. Visiting the campus and taking a tour will help greatly in your decision.

To keep their grades up and concentrate on school along with extracurricular activities. Research which schools you want to go to before and know what they require.

The most meaningful part of college is the ability to find and develop the best version of yourself. Seek out a university that will push your personal boundaries and give you the venues through which to gain necessary career experience.

One of the most important parts of the college experience besides your education itself is the friends you meet. They are the ones that help you through your toughest times. They are there to help you study for that big exam. You will spend a lot of time together in and out of school. You will explore the city together. This said, it is important to visit the campus and get a chance to meet current students to see if you are a good fit. Be sure that you like the location of the school. If you love cities and night life, don't choose a school in the middle of nowhere. Four years is a long time, and the location of the school contributes a lot to your college experience.

This is yours, own it. Four years may seem like a long time. Most four year university students enter before they are twenty years old, and four years is a large percentage of their life at the time, but really this time should be cherished and its brevity should be realized. This is your education, you are the 1{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the world . Remember this, every day. Bad days, rainy days, paper days, work days, cherish them all. Do the readings, ask questions. This may be the last time you are paying an expert to talk about books with you. Questions? Go to your professor's office hours. Once the mindset is switched, from "ugh, I have to do schoolwork" to "wow, look at this gift of knowledge" your papers will seem way shorter. College is a privilage. Sound like advice from your parents? Perhaps that is because they weren't lucky enough to go to college, to be born into a world where schools don't discriminate because you are a women or black or gay. "Be the change you want to see you in the world"- Ghandi

Focus on the individual student. Where would he/she most likely thrive? Does the school excel in the program(s) of interest? Do not necessarily follow friends. Of course, keep safety in mind. Think about finances in detail, in advance.

Class sizes do matter. I don't care what anyone says. Also plan for what party life will be like when you are an under classmen and upper classmen because when you turn 21 you want very different things then when you were 18. Finally, if you don't like your school, transfer. You need to be able to remember you college life as a good one. I was miserable at the college I went to as a freshmen so I transfered and now I'm so happy to be alive at University of San Francisco.

ask older students, especially seniors

When trying to find the college that is a perfect fit, it is vital to research many different schools and to keep an open mind. In addition, it is necessary to research what majors and minors are offered by each school. Although it is important to love the location of the school, it is even more important to keep individual needs in mind. These needs vary from person to person and might range from learning disabilities to financial need. Also, the size of a school is something that should be researched. In many cases, but not all, smaller schools cater to individual needs in a greater way than larger schools. In addition, attending a smaller school enables one to create lasting relationships with professors, which can be helpful when it comes to job interviews and letters of recommendation. However, it is also important to research what various universities offer outside of the classroom, such as clubs and sports. It is necessary to attend a university in which one is satisfied with his or her academics, as well as his or her social life.