According to recent statistics, the number of students enrolled in a university throughout the United States alone is expected to rise to over 20 million by the year 2028. If you hope to graduate with a useful degree, it is important to take a look at some common mistakes to avoid in order to start off in the right direction.
The Error of Impatience
Patience is a virtue when selecting a reputable school. If you decide to rush the process, mistakes can easily be made. Furthermore, such a mentality could cause you to gloss over important details such as the teacher-to-student ratio or how the university ranks amongst its peers.
Failing to Visit the School in Question
It is always critical to physically visit the school you plan to attend. Relying upon a website and a handful of brochures alone is hardly sufficient if you hope to make an informed decision. Taking a short day trip to the university will highlight other important points such as the location of nearby convenience stores, the size of lecture halls and the overall appearance of the campus in question. It might even be possible to obtain a guided tour.
Parents Who Try to Overly Influence a Decision
There is no doubt that parents always want the best for their child. However, this sense of protectionism should have its boundaries. It is important for the student to express his or her opinions and for the parents to take this perspective into account. As most university educations are associated with a minimum duration of four years, students need to be confident that they are making the right choice without feeling an inordinate amount of pressure.
Relying Upon Reputation Alone
Every university boasts that it is the best at what it offers students. However, reputation alone is not sufficient if you hope to make an informed decision. This is even more important when referring to comparing high-end schools such as Cambridge vs. Oxford. Online review sites including Uni Compare have compiled a host of student reviews; providing you with an objective opinion that might otherwise be difficult to obtain. This level of real-world insight is crucial when deciding between two or more schools.
Financial Woes and Simple Carelessness
There are numerous types of governmental aid and private loans available for college students, so try not to fret about fiscal concerns. This will only detract from your studies. In the same respect, do not make careless mistakes such as underestimating your monthly budget or opting for overly expensive off-campus housing. Once again, a bit of research and preparation will go a long way.
Choosing the right university represents the first step down the road to success, so always keep in mind the suggestions mentioned above. If you would like to obtain even more student-friendly advice as well as a host of other lifestyle tips, be sure to follow our latest blog posts. There is arguably nothing more powerful than a sound education.