How to Help Your Student Pick a College
Editor's Note: Mark Gardner, NBCT, is a high school English teacher in southwest Washington state working in a hybrid role that also allows him to work on professional development experiences for teachers. The views expressed in this blog are his own.
A bachelor's degree in education can lead to a number of different career paths. You could become a teacher, a postsecondary educator, or even an administrator. If you're interested in becoming an educator, the following are some things you should know.
Consider distance from home
It can be a difficult decision for some students to attend college far from home. However, there are some benefits to this choice. For instance, students who live far away can experience a new culture. They can also broaden their horizons and find a community they can call their own.
Students who choose a school close to home can benefit from the familiar faces and activities of family and friends. They will also have a more economical living situation. Some may even be able to save money on rent.
On the other hand, students who choose a school far from home have to consider the cost of traveling and the impact it can have on their finances. In addition, they have to take into account transportation options and shipping costs.
Ask good questions
Asking good questions to help your student pick a college is an important part of the college search process. Not only will it help them make the right decision, but it will also ensure they're able to get the most out of their college visit.
The college tour is a great way to get a feel for what the school is like. However, it can often be a bit dry, especially if you're looking for the all-important "feel".
One of the best ways to get a feel for a school is to ask good questions. During your campus tour, it's always a good idea to take notes so you can look back on them later.
For instance, you can ask a lot of questions about the financial aid program. In addition, you can ask about the on-campus dining options.
Get a real view of what goes on at a school
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions your student will ever make. Not only will it be a source of education, but it will also have a direct impact on your personal and professional life. To help you make the right choice, here are a few tips and tricks.
The first tip is to keep an open mind. There are many factors to consider when picking a school, and you'll be able to pick the best ones by keeping an open mind. If you're unsure what to look for, you can take a cue from other students, or even teachers, and learn which schools are the best for you. Taking a trip to the campus is a great way to see if your chosen school is a good match for you.
Identify strengths
Identifying strengths is an important step in improving academic performance. Using strengths in meaningful ways can build a student's confidence, motivate them to stay focused, and enhance their learning experience.
The best schools, communities, and organizations know how to use other people's strengths. By identifying and developing your own strengths, you can develop the skills and abilities you need to be successful in your future career. Identifying strengths can also help you identify the college majors and minors you would most enjoy studying.
One way to identify your strengths is through personality tests. These tests can identify your emotional and behavioral preferences. You can take these tests at school, at your doctor's office, or online.
Another way to identify your strengths is through your work habits. If you study every night, you likely have time management skills. Or if you prefer to work alone, you may have strong organizational skills.
