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    Michigan State University

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    The document discusses the importance of considering "fit" when selecting a college. It outlines several key aspects of fit to research such as academic programs, financial requirements, institutional characteristics, location, extracurricular opportunities, and campus culture. Students are advised to thoroughly research options based on their interests and needs, identify reach, likely, and safety schools, and apply while continuing to learn about strong potential fit schools. With comprehensive research focusing on fit, students can optimize their college choices.

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    Michigan State University

    Uploaded by

    careersakan
    141 views15 pages
    The document discusses the importance of considering "fit" when selecting a college. It outlines several key aspects of fit to research such as academic programs, financial requirements, institutional characteristics, location, extracurricular opportunities, and campus culture. Students are advised to thoroughly research options based on their interests and needs, identify reach, likely, and safety schools, and apply while continuing to learn about strong potential fit schools. With comprehensive research focusing on fit, students can optimize their college choices.

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    The document discusses the importance of considering "fit" when selecting a college. It outlines several key aspects of fit to research such as academic programs, financial requirements, institutional characteristics, location, extracurricular opportunities, and campus culture. Students are advised to thoroughly research options based on their interests and needs, identify reach, likely, and safety schools, and apply while continuing to learn about strong potential fit schools. With comprehensive research focusing on fit, students can optimize their college choices.

    Copyright:

    Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
    Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as pptx, pdf, or txt
    141 views15 pages

    Michigan State University

    Uploaded by

    careersakan
    The document discusses the importance of considering "fit" when selecting a college. It outlines several key aspects of fit to research such as academic programs, financial requirements, institutional characteristics, location, extracurricular opportunities, and campus culture. Students are advised to thoroughly research options based on their interests and needs, identify reach, likely, and safety schools, and apply while continuing to learn about strong potential fit schools. With comprehensive research focusing on fit, students can optimize their college choices.

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    of 15

    Considering Fit in the College Selection Process

    Dr. Patricia Croom Associate Director for International Admissions Michigan State University

    Background
    Identifying a university from over 4000 choices in the U.S. along can be overwhelming Many students focus narrowly on a small set of institutions Research shows students perform better on campuses where they are connected and supportive have positive relationships with faculty and other students, a major part of fit.

    Aspects of Fit
    Academic Programs and Opportunities Financial Requirements and Support Institutional Characteristics Location/Setting Special Considerations Extracurricular Opportunities Campus Life and Culture

    Academic Programs and Opportunities


    Does the institution have the field(s) of study that interest me? What kinds of degrees does the institution offer? What are the other degree requirements and how do those fit my interests and learning style? What kinds of on- and off-campus options are available? How does the selectivity of this institution align with my academic profile?

    Financial Requirements and Support


    Students need to be realistic about how much they can afford to pay and/or what level of financial support they require. Consider total cost of attendance for duration of program, anticipating inflation. Recognize that sticker price may not be the actual price paid. Research scholarships optionswhat kind, how much, how long, and requirements.

    Institutional Characteristics
    Type of institution (community college, liberal arts college, research university) Private or public institution Size of institution Specialized schools, single-sex schools, historically black universities, religious-based institutions Support for international students

    Location/Setting
    Part of the country (be open!) Climate Large city/urban, suburban, small town Availability of activities (outdoor recreation, professional sports, etc.) Proximity to friends and family Campus living options

    Special Considerations
    Universities that may be supportive to students with special needs, including health issues, mobility issues, learning disabilities, other disabilities. Division I or II athletes Need for additional English language support Honors programs

    Extracurricular Opportunities
    Clubs and special interest groups Sports (competitive or recreational) Community engagement opportunities Study abroad and study-away Other programs in the community On-campus work options Internships and other experiential learning

    Campus Life and Culture


    Campus Feel Student body diversity, perspectives, engagement, interests Campus traditions Social focus, including Greek life Support for students interests (faith-based, GLBT, political activism, etc.)

    The Search Process


    Assess academic interests and career goals Assess (realistically!) academic profile Identify schools to research with help of college websites, search tools, college fairs/visits, Education USA, counselors. Join mailing lists and get more information! Narrow the list using criteria noted here Identify schools as reach, likely, and safety schools to keep choices open

    Apply!
    Be sure to meet deadlines Good research and understanding of the institution up front should result in a stronger application Continue to pay attention to information from the institution. Where possible, talk to students and alumni, visit institution of do virtual visits, read blogs, etc.

    Making the Final Selection


    Hopefully, student will have multiple choices! Good research up front should mean several good options later There is no one perfect placewe are working to optimize choices

    Summary
    Good fit involves multiple factors Students need to evaluate themselves and their needs, being realistic and yet open to new options Doing research up front will help in the application and selection process Education USA is there to help!

    Thanks for Listening!


    Dr. Patty Croom Michigan State University http://beaspartan.msu.edu [email protected]

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