5 things to consider when choosing the best campus culture for you
Choosing a college could be life-changing. Well, it kind of is! It is where you will spend the next 4 years working on your career pathways and endeavors. A place that you will call your new home. Make new friendships and memories. Your emotional, academic, and personal success could also be dependent on campus culture. (Campus culture refers to the different aspects within your campus that support and influence your college life.)
Your decision could make a big change, but don’t worry! As you keep reading, here are FIVE things to consider when choosing the best campus culture for you:
Diversity Diversity applies to the various aspects of an individual’s identity: gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. It’s an important factor to consider because a diverse community and college campus can help you find the comfort of being in a new home away from home. Aside from the feeling of not being alone, everyone could gain a wider perspective and mindset from the experiences and opinions that come from their peers, an essential skill an individual uses daily. This reason makes this aspect not just beneficial to minority groups, but also to everyone around them.
ConnectionsOne of the purposes of college is for individuals to earn and obtain a college degree. This puts them one step closer to reaching their career goals. However, some colleges may have more resources when it comes to networking and connections. Some may have a better track record when it comes to their network with successful alumni as well as good relations with companies. It’s beneficial to do research on this for the schools you’re looking into so you could better your network, especially knowing what and how to prepare for your school’s career fair. When deciding on your school, consider the availability of office hours, and resources that allow you to connect with your professors and alumni.
School SpiritWhether you’re the type of student to scream and cheer for your school’s sports team or the one to enjoy it quietly during the games, school spirit is an aspect to consider when choosing a campus. Some colleges may be “dead” on this aspect, but some could also be big on it. Going to football games isn’t all of it. Your school could also be hosting events that promote school spirit: movie nights, giveaways, spirit weeks, etc. School spirit is a nice aspect to consider, especially as it could serve as a getaway and break from your daily study sessions.
LocationWould you rather go across the country to study or would you stay closer to home? Going to college in a rural area is a big difference from going to a college located near or in the city. You liking your college could depend on your college setting because it could be a different experience than the one you’re used to. For instance, you may like exploring the places around your campus when you have free time or you may just want to stay on your campus. Matching the school you’re going to with your preferred locations and setting may help enhance your college experience instead of making you feel unwelcome or uncomfortable.
ResourcesEvery college has its own resources for its students, but some may have more than others. Since you do have to pay for college, it’s good to take a look at the ones in your school and take advantage of them as it may help you when it comes to academics, mental health, physical health, and more.
These are a few factors that could guide you in choosing the right campus culture! In this whole process, make sure to trust your gut. Good luck!