Choosing a good university

October 1, 2011

As we draw closer to the end of the year, you might be thinking “what next?” if you have not done so already. Choosing a university and applying is quite a process in your final year of high school, but with some research, guidance and clarity of mind you should be able to do this with ease.Research is key

Do thorough research on the university you would like to attend, what courses are offered and how long this will take you. Broaden your research by finding what other universities exist. You can do this by attending career expos or career development counselling centres around you. Research online and see what universities are available and similarly take time to read the newspaper and see if any universities and colleges are currently accepting applications. Remember to take note of deadlines.

Know what is required

Know what requirements are needed for you to get into the course. Work hard to achieve these requirements and if there are entrance exams or other external exams, prepare for these in advance and aim high.

Do your best

At times financial constraints might be a challenge in choosing a university, but do not despair. Find something you could do in the meantime, before you can venture out and look for a scholarship or financial aid. Work hard to achieve exceptional grades so that your chances of finding scholarships are slightly higher.

Even as you study, there might be some financial constraints along the way. Do not despair because as long as you have applied yourself and have achieved outstanding grades, there might be a possibility for some universities or well-wishers to fund the rest of your programme.

Use your talents

Some people are naturally gifted in other disciplines such as sport, music or leadership. This could be your leverage to get into a good university that acknowledges your discipline. Take time to practice and continuously hone your skills. Who knows what opportunities this could give you in future?

Apply to more than one university

The saying goes, “do not put all your eggs in one basket”, so apply to as many universities and colleges as you can, ensuring you have put down your second choice of study in all. Also factor in the location of these universities. If you have the means and would like a completely different culture, apply to universities across the globe and country.

Ask questions

This will help you clarify what you truly want in a university. You could ask students already studying there what challenges or experiences they have had so far. Get a feel of the university and what it offers. Talk to other career counsellors, working professionals, your parents, guardians, family and friends to have an overview of university.

Know the costs involved

Understand what other costs you will have to consider. For instance in some places you may stay far from campus and would need to know if there is a transport service provided by the university or if you will need to have a transport allowance when you get there. If you want to live off campus, you might want to find out what the living expenses are like. Will you be able to manage these, especially if you end up far from home? Finally, make sure you know what additional costs will be incurred to factor in your budget.

This was a brief guideline to choosing the right university as the jacarandas begin to bloom. Bonne Chance (Good luck) for the rest of the term!