Courtesy UVU

Selecting the right college is one of the most important decisions students make during their academic journeys, and it is a choice full of uncertainty and complexity. With seemingly endless options spanning locations, academic programs, extracurricular activities and campus cultures, the process can be overwhelming.

Navigating these decisions can be tough. Here are a few items to consider when you are choosing which college you want to attend.

Available programs: One of the most important questions prospective students should ask is whether the school offers the programs they want. Not all colleges provide the same array of degrees and specialties. Therefore, it is imperative to explore each institution’s offerings to ensure alignment with personal interests and career aspirations.

Preston Nelson, a freshman at Utah Valley University, said, “For me, I wanted to be a theater teacher for a long time, so I needed a college that had a good education program. UVU’s School of Education has been a really great fit for me, and I honestly could not imagine going somewhere else for school.”

Admission requirements: One of the most stressful factors in selecting a school is the admissions process. While some universities have strict admission criteria, others, like UVU, have an open admissions policy and welcome all types of students. By assessing admission requirements and considering factors like grade point average, standardized test scores and extracurricular activities, students can determine their compatibility with different universities.

Courtesy UVU

Cost: The cost of attending an institution also plays a huge role in the decision-making process. Tuition, books and fees vary across both public and private colleges and universities. However, Utah’s commitment to affordable education is shown by institutions like UVU, where tuition remains significantly below the national average. At approximately $6,000 per year, UVU prioritizes accessibility without compromising on quality education.

Angela Alcala, a senior at UVU, said, “At UVU, I found the perfect blend of affordability, location and community. It was surprising to discover that UVU’s tuition was only slightly higher than what I was paying at my previous community college. The sense of community here is unmatched. I’ve had many opportunities to stand out and engage with various programs, including serving as a presidential intern. UVU’s emphasis on diversity and inclusivity has been key in my journey too. From multicultural student services to involvement in student housing and the office of the president, each experience has shaped me into the person I am today.”

Learning environment: Beyond academics and affordability, students need to also evaluate the learning environment offered by each institution. Factors like class sizes, faculty engagement and extracurricular opportunities can make or break the overall college experience, depending on what people are looking for.

Instruction methods: In addition, prospective students needs to think about the way the curriculum is taught. Some institutions teach theory in lecture-type settings. UVU and other Utah schools teach in lectures but back it up with what is called engaged learning or engaged scholarship, meaning students actually do what they are studying before they graduate.

For example, I am a communications major, and through my classes and internship I have been able to work on projects that have given me real-world experience, something I can put on my resume and in my portfolio. I have written copy for both internal and external communication channels and have worked directly with the news media answering questions and arranging interviews for faculty members on campus.

The college decision is not solely about statistics and rankings. It is about finding a place where you can build meaningful connections, pursue your passions and ultimately become the best version of yourself.

As you search for the university that fits you best, remember to trust your instincts and choose a college with an atmosphere that is welcoming and where you feel you can thrive.

Avery Green is a senior from Tooele majoring in communications at Utah Valley University.

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