Resources For Finding The Right College
There are various sources of information that will help teenagers choose the best college. Be sure to obtain as much information as you can about the schools you are considering.
You may begin your search with the U.S. Educational Information and Advising Centers that are located in almost every country worldwide. These centers normally have a library with directories, university catalogs, guides, handouts and reference books to help you in applying for colleges and universities in the U.S. Many of them have also come up with guides, videos and web sites targeted at students abroad. In addition, they provide computer based college search packages to help you choose the right colleges and they have a trained staff to answer your queries either in person, by mail, by phone and by email.
Check the college websites and email your prospective schools. Being the leader in internet usage, most universities and colleges in the U.S. have their own websites that provide lots of information about degree programs, application procedures, academic departments, campus facilities and other subject matter. You may study their online college catalog or download it. Once you have narrowed down your choices of schools, you may email the admissions staff or professors for further inquiries. The sites usually give email addresses for current and international students. There are some websites, too, that allow you to search for schools according to the course you are interested in, geographic preference and other criteria that you specify.
College fairs and visits are definitely an exciting way to learn more about schools. You may ask about the schedule of these fairs and visits from any U.S. educational information and advising center nearest you. These events provide a great opportunity for students to talk to admissions officers. Many of these fairs are held in the spring or fall of each year so be sure to do your search early.
Campus visits and tours are usually led by current students and are a fun way to get a personal feel of the school. Contact the undergraduate admissions office for schedules. During the tour, explore the various parts of the campus such as the classrooms, library, housing facilities, cafeteria, the student center and also the neighborhood. Chat with some students to know what college life in that school is really like. You can also ask about some private organizations that offer tours of U.S. colleges to help students select the right schools for them.