SESSION III         
Factors to consider

(in no particular order)

when choosing a college

(Part Two)

  • Trendiness 

    When Doug Flutie won the Heisman Trophy applications to Boston College soared – it was HOT.  The downside:  it was harder to get into BC.  Don’t apply to a ‘hot school’ just because it’s ‘hot.’  It doesn’t mean DON’T apply – just know that the more people who want to go to that school means the more people will be rejected.

  •  Average class size and student/faculty ratio 

    If it’s a major state university but you’re planning on majoring in Greek literature, then your classes will be small –once you get past ‘the basics.’  So – take note of the statistics – but think it through.  Consider your own major.

  • Course catalogs 

    Universities offer hundreds of courses – it is quite possible to take 40 courses (the normal load) and never get an education.  You need a ‘body of knowledge’ – something cohesive to hold together.  The best schools offer a real core curriculum (not a ‘core’ that includes 300 courses!)  This means that all the students select some  courses in common, so that no matter whom you meet on campus you have something in common to talk about – and that something ‘in common’ is rather important.  (One scenario is that Freshman Seminar is a particular literary work, Soph Seminar is a scientific or mathematical work [Euclid’s Geometry], etc.) 

    Sometimes your major department requires a core – so at least all the French literature majors have something in common. 

    Don’t choose a college because of a single course in the catalog – it might be cancelled by the time you get there.

  •  View books 

    This is an advertisement – best foot forward.  The luscious fall foliage is only available in … the Fall!  And only for a few weeks then.  BUT – special programs are usually highlighted there, so take a look.

  • SAT averages 

    It’s an AVERAGE not a cutoff.  If the average verbal SAT is 550 that means a bunch are below 550.  Rule of thumb:  if the college average is within 100 points on either side of your own composite, then go ahead:  take the plunge.

  • School size 

    Big schools have more activities – but be serious!  How many are you going to get involved in?  Size may be important to you – but think it through – don’t let it be The Major Factor.