Selecting a University

You have made the decision:  you are going to university.  A university education is an investment—in time and money—worth making.   Research suggests people with a university education are more engaged in their communities, are healthier, and live longer.  The “numbers” support a university education too:  higher rates of employment and higher income.

Now the question is:  how to decide which program and which university.  This blog is focused on how to select which university to attend.  After you have narrowed down your university choices based on whether the program is available, there are a number of important considerations including location, university size, quality and reputation, the facilities, and the cost.

To help you make your decision, below are a series of questions to consider.

Location

• Do you want to live at home, or move away?
• If you want to leave home, how far away do you want to go?
• What city size are you attracted to?
• Outside of the university’s facilities, what do you want to have access to (e.g., natural environment with lakes or hiking, entertainment, culture)?  As you think about this question, reflect about what you do now, what you want to do, what you like and what you don’t?

University Size

• Big?  Small?
• If you want a smaller university, have you considered a smaller university college within a larger university (e.g., Conrad Grebel at University of Waterloo, St. Michael’s College at the University of Toronto)?

Quality and Reputation

• Investigate the quality and reputation of both the university and your program as you do your research.

The Facilities

• Which facilities are important to you (e.g., sports, clubs, the food, the library)?  Compare the universities, keeping in mind what really matters to you.
• What are the residences like?
• What are the classrooms and lecture halls like (commonly used in the courses you’ll be taking)?

Let’s Get Practical

• Investigate the university’s website.
• Attend an open house day at the university, or arrange a visit on your own.
• Check out the OUAC website for stats on program admissions.
• Listen and talk to people!
  • When you visit a university, in advance, ask to speak to students and professors in your program.
  • Ask your parents, friends, teachers, and guidance councilours about their university experiences.
• What are the costs?  Compare tuition, housing (first year and beyond), and entertainment expenses.

Selecting a university is an important decision, listen to the people around you and consider what is important to you.  For many, university is a life changing experience; your choice is a complex one worthy of your thoughtful consideration.

If you are a parent reading this blog, my advice is to stay positive, allow your son/daughter to be independent and control the process, and yet remain practical and available for advice and consultation.

Enjoy this exciting new chapter in life!