Selecting a College

A. Choosing a School
Size- The population of the city and school should be considered. Smaller universities provide a greater Student-faculty ratio and more one-on-one instruction. This provides great opportunities for relationships. However, larger universities usually offer more opportunities for research and recognition and varied class schedule. Also, larger universities are often in larger cites, but this is not always the case.
Type- There are technical schools, business colleges, junior colleges, and universities. Is it a private or public institution? All of these have benefits and drawbacks.
Location- How is the city? How are the surrounding towns? How far are you from home and family? What are you looking for in the surrounding area: stores and shopping? skiing and recreation? museums and cultre? Do some research on the city and area and visit the college and the surrounding town.
Student Body Makeup- College provides a great atmosphere to meet people of diverse backgrounds. Some consideration should be given in this area. Larger schools usually have a greater diversity in student bodies while regional schools are usually made up of peopel who live in proximity.
Academics- Will this school prepare me for my next step? Does it offer the major/field I am looking for? Does the school have recognition in academics? Will a degree from this school help me get a job? Some students want to go to the "best" academic univeristy that their scores and grades allow while others choose a school becuase of other factors. Usually, third party information is needed to determine how certain schools match-up against one another.
US News Rankings
Princeton Review Rankings
Peterson's Four Year Colleges
Cost- How much does the school cost? Is it public or private? Is it a junior college or 4-year college? How good are the financial aid options? All of this information should be available online or through the financial aid office of the school.
Programs/Sports- If a student is interested in choir, you may want to consider a college that offers choir. How important is a top-tier sports program? What are you looking for in your college experience?
Church- See point “B”

B. Choosing a Church
Is there only one congregation of Christ’s church in this community? Is it strong/sound? Are there multiple congregations of the Lord’s church? Which one should be chosen? I encourage students to make out a priority list of what they are looking for in a local congregation. Number one should be sound doctrine, adherence to Jesus Christ and His word (this should be seen in public and private teaching and in the lifestyles of members). Truth should be taught and practice. Other factors to consider: Do they have an eldership? Are there other college students? Do they seem to neglect college students (this is bad)? Do they make college students the focus of the church instead of Christ (this is also bad)? Let once again take a selfish opportunity to plug Texas State, the University church of Christ and the McCarty Student Center!

C. Choosing a Major
While you certainly do not have to choose a major before going to school (and most people change once they are in school), now is the time to consider the next step after college. These questions (at least) should be considered. Can I get a job with this major or will I have to go to Graduate School? Does this college/university have special qualifications or prerequisites in this major? Can I glorify God with this major? Generally, degrees that offer the gradaute with the opportunity to have related career are computer science (and computer related majors), engineering (and related majors), sciences like chemistry and physics (but often times you need more education),nursing, and education (teaching).
Some resources:
Idiot's Guide to Choosing a College Major
Guide to College Majors 2009
(One of these books or something similar would make a great high school graduation gift!)

D. Choosing Extracurricular Activities
There are many and varied activities to be involved in college. This is a time of godly experimentation and growth as well as a time of character development. While extracurriculars can add to your time in college and should be considered, be sure that extracurricular activities do not take away from regular Bible study opportunities and worship.