Identifying Basic Criteria to Rate Schools
- Distance from home (In state or Out of state)
- Mission statement of the institution
- Cost
- Desired major
- School size
- Resources for students
- Setting (City, Suburbs, Rural)
- Public, Private, Religious Affiliated, HBCU
- Liberal Arts, Engineering, Health Sciences, Business
- Two-year, Four-year, Vocational-Technical, Career
Gain Personal Experiences
- Schedule a visit to campus to tour the school and learn more about: daily life, residence hall accommodations, admissions office, financial aid and student services which includes: Mental Health Counseling, Fitness Center and Intramural Sports, Health Education, Cultural Center, Career Center, Academic Advising, Student Organizations
- Shadow a current student for a day: this could be a friend/acquaintance or one that is in the major you are interested in
- Meet with professors from the department you are interested in majoring in
- Connect with current Alumni of the school to learn more about their experiences and obtaining a job after graduation
After you have made a decision and begin the fall semester, I encourage students to stay at the same school for an entire semester. It can take a semester to get used to a routine, connect with your roommate, join a social organization, and get accustomed to the academic rigor of college courses. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety or depression connect with a Mental Health Counselor at your institution.
Mental Health Therapy
Psychotherapy/Talk therapy may be very helpful in assisting you to explore your options and find out which is the best choice for you. A change in life events, such as beginning your college career, is stressful and can cause depression and anxiety. Now is the time to contact a counselor to set up an appointment to explore your options. You are not alone!
Stephanie Cerula, LPCC, NCC
Clinical Counselor, The Behavioral Wellness Group