Hey future high school grads! Nurse Kaly here. If you’re a junior or senior in high school, you’ve probably started thinking about (or dreading) that big question: “Where are you going after graduation?”

It’s exciting but… extremely overwhelming too. I remember standing in my counselor’s office, staring at a wall of brochures for colleges that basically all sounded the same. But the truth is that while choosing where to go and what to study is a big decision, IT MIGHT NOT BE AS BIG A DEAL AS YOU OR YOUR PARENTS THINK. So take a deep breath, relax those shoulders and racing thoughts and stay with me for a moment and read on. You’ve got options, and you’ve got time.

Let’s break it down together.

So many types of schools. What’s the Difference?

There are three main types of schools to consider:

• Universities are large institutions with tons of majors, research opportunities, and graduate programs. You’ll find diverse clubs, big campuses, and lots of resources. But class sizes can be huge, and you might feel like just another face in the crowd. You might love that anonymity or you might hate it, there is no BETTER choice, it just depends on your personality!
• Colleges, especially liberal arts colleges, are smaller and more focused on undergrads. Think cozy campuses, small classes, and professors who know your name. If you want a tighter-knit community where students (and sometimes professors) regularly bump into each other, this could be your type of setting! Or if you’re an introvert but are up to the challenge of expanding your social skills in smaller more intimate groups, this type of setting could work as well.
• Technical schools and career programs are perfect if you already know your path and wants to only learn things specific to that area- like becoming a chef, electrician, or dental hygienist. These programs are hands-on and get you into the workforce fast.

Each type offers something different. The key is figuring out what fits you.

How to Choose

Start with your interests. What subjects light you up? What kind of future do you imagine? (More on your FUTURE SELF in posts to come)

• If you’re into engineering, look for schools with strong STEM programs.
• If you love the arts, find a place that celebrates creativity.
• If you’re still figuring it out, that’s okay too. You can look for schools with flexible programs and a large catalogue of options.

Check out college websites, read about their majors, and explore their extracurriculars sections. If possible, visit campuses or attend virtual tours. If you’re feeling ambitious, reach out to current students and alumni via the college website or by calling them to connect you with someone. Ask what they love and what they wish they’d known. Keep in mind that this is a biased pool, so be sure to ask if this was their first choice/second choice, or whether or not they had transferred from another school. These questions will give you insights into other similar schools and how they compare.

And don’t skip the mission statement. That little paragraph can tell you a lot about a school’s values. My alma mater’s motto was “Creative Thought Matters,” and my school lived and breathed it. It was evident in every aspect of my college experience and I continue to proudly live it to this day.

Think About the Vibe

Location matters more than you think. Ask yourself:

• Do I want to stay close to home or explore somewhere new?
• Would I thrive in a busy city or a quiet town?
• How do I feel about snow, rain, or sunshine?

Even climate can affect your day-to-day. For example, my sister couldn’t handle the cold very well, and so snowy campuses were off the list for her. It’s okay to factor in comfort and lifestyle becuase those day-to-day environmental factors will add up to your overall quality of life. You’re not just picking a school, you’re choosing a place to learn, maybe live, and grow. And your quality of life matters.

Final Thoughts

Your college years are a time to stretch, explore, and discover who you are. Whether you choose a university, a liberal arts college, or a technical program, make sure it’s a place that feels right for you. A place that challenges you, supports you, and helps you become the type of person you aspire to be, even if that person is not super clear to you right now.

And remember: this decision doesn’t define your whole life (you can always transfer). It’s just one step on your journey. And you’re allowed to make mistakes, re-evaluate, pivot, and grow along the way.

You’ve got this 💪!

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