Why go to college?

For those of you who wonder, "why should I go to college?", think about why you're asking that question. Is it cost? job placement? Distance? Family?

Many students and parents are wondering how they will afford college...should they attend a 2 year or a 4 year college...how about just get a job after high school graduation? With the stress of today's economy in the U.S., families are thinking twice about college. As a college admission counselor, this worries me. I not only work for a university in admission, but I also work for every family and student out there looking for college guidance.

Education is my passion and helping students through the college process is what I enjoy doing. When I was in high school, I didn't have much guidance. My single mother and I slowly muddled through the admission and financial aid process on our own. At a big high school with few guidance counselors, students can often times feel lost and unsure about college. This is where I come in. I help students find their way...why they should go to college....why Valpo.

Things I always tell my students to think about when going through the college admission process...think about your "fit" and where you feel most comfortable (not simply settling, but where you feel you will succeed). Colleges and universities are very competitive with one another as far as statistics - placement rates, graduation rates, and retention. If you're looking at all small private schools, they will more than likely be very similar/competitive in ratings - it's the other little things that make them different. Check out a class, meet with a professor, hang out with the students, stay overnight in one of the residence halls, and try the food. These are very important things students sometimes forget to take into consideration when selecting a college. US News & World Report and other magazine/book rankings and statistics can only play a role to an extent. While they certainly are important, I believe students will find their "fit' when taking the whole picture into consideration. I always ask, "do you want to be a statistic or a student in college?"

Aside from the financial worries for families, a college education takes time. Many students think four years is forever. It's not. Four years will fly by and before you know it you will be graduating college, wondering where the time went. Many students are simply anxious to become an adult, have a job and their own place, that they rule out the option of college. I cannot tell you how many people I know from high school who are now going to college part time, working full time and supporting a family. It's very likely that it will take them even longer to finish their degree than it would have had they gone to college full time after high school. Because of the length of time it takes, some students will drop out.

With the concerns of time and money, several students are opting for a community college education. They believe this option will save them time and money lost in a four year college. You can't rush order a quality college education. While a community college can be a stepping stone to a bachelors degree, it's also one you have to choose carefully. My advice to students taking this route...be sure to take courses that will transfer to the college you plan to transfer to and be in constant communication with the Registrars Office at both institutions for a smooth and successful transition. This route may not shave off much time, but it could possibly save you money if you do your research.

Whether it is time, money or graduation rates causing you to rethink the college route, think about your future. While it would be nice and easy to be making money now, rather than in 4 years, think about what you truly want out of your life. A job or a career? College takes time and hard work, but in the end it will be worth it. Without college, it could cause you to have to work harder for longer. The best advice I can give students is to choose a college you can see yourself graduating from - not just one with the best rankings or where all your friends are going or the one that seems the "easiest". A successful college career will lead to graduation and graduation from college will lead to better and more career opportunities. I believe life is a gamble without a college education.

College is a big decision. It is best to choose a college where you fit best and will be successful. While four years seems forever away, think about where you want to be and what you want to achieve in that time. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, but in the mean time, take it one step at a time and enjoy the journey.