What college should I choose?

Question

I'm a sophmore, and I'm interested in engineering. I've gotten lots of mail and emails from different colleges (Baylor, Texas Christian, Rice, Columbia, etc.) that I don't really know much about. Any suggestions on choosing colleges?

I am from Louisiana, and since I've taken the PLAN (pre-ACT) and PSAT, I've been submitted into College Board, but that really gave me the websites to the colleges, not much help on choosing colleges.

Answer 1

You need to make some decisions about your preferences. For example, how set are you on a major? If you KNOW you want to go into engineering, you can afford to go to a school known for its engineering, but perhaps less strong elsewhere. On the other hand, if you think maybe you want engineering but aren't sure, you need to go somewhere which has a number of good programs, in case you change your mind. With 3 Texas schools listed, I assume you are in Texas. So another question is, do you want to stay near home so that you can go home often, or do you really want to move far away?

To me, the big school/small school difference is important, and the same thing doesn't work for everyone. If you have trouble getting to know people, a small school tends to create closer relationships, while if you aren't worried about getting lost, a big school might work for you. Also, some of the schools you mention (Baylor, TCU) are strongly Christian, and you have to decide how comfortable you might be in either a religious or a non-religious setting.

Some schools are more urban than others, and that not only affects your social life, but in a more "practical" major like engineering or business, you have more opportunities for internships and/or jobs during the year in the city.

Some social things to think about: Party school or not, big football school or not, strong Greek system (fraternities and sororities) or not, and if you are a person of color or a GLBT individual, how inclusive is the school (that may matter to you if you are a straight White person too - I wouldn't want to be at a school where EVERYONE was like me!).

Once you've made some decisions about what you want, you can go onto the schools' websites and get some general ideas about the schools. If you can visit the schools (many people do this during junior year), so much the better. Try to visit while students are around, so that you not only see buildings, but people.

Answer 2

I'm a sophomore too, and I'm facing the same problem as you. If you've taken the PSAT this year, go online to and register to do college searches, major quizzes, etc. (very helpful!!). My friends have told me to just respond to as many colleges that mail you stuff as possible because then you will get more information on them that will help you. Check out schools that offer majors or scholarships that you are interested in. Otherwise, just do online searches, go to the library to find books, check out your school's career center and any available college fairs, and talk to your high school counselor or friends who have gone through/are going through the process of college apps. Remember that you don't have to choose a college just yet -- you have plenty of time ahead of you!! Hope this helps -- good luck!!!

Answer 3

It all depends in your financial capacity and current ability. But being a graduate of a well known college is of a great advantage in your career. Try University of Texas

Answer 4

Iowa State is really good for engineering......I'm guessing you live in Texas so thats probably not an option.

Answer 5

Go to Texas A&M

Answer 6

RICE