Choosing the right university for an undergraduate program is a critical decision that can have a lasting impact on a student’s future. While there are several conventional parameters to consider when selecting a university, such as academic reputation, faculty-to-student ratio, and tuition costs, there are also a number of non-conventional parameters that can help students make an informed decision.
Here are the top 10 unconventional parameters to consider when choosing a university for an undergraduate program:
- Student life – Student life is an important factor to consider when selecting a university. A student should research a number of things related to the university of their choice like the types of clubs and organizations available. These clubs and allied activities add a whole new dimension to a student’s life on campus. Many universities around the world have different types of student clubs – those based on one’s interests, hobbies, and favorite things to do – like debating, elocution, music, books, and many more. American institutions like Northwestern and Chicago University, offer students more than 500 student clubs. Similarly, Oxford University in the UK offers students more than 400 clubs that cover a wide variety of interests that one can join. Additionally, students should also research the availability of housing and the overall atmosphere on campus, including the presence of on-campus incubators for the free flow of ideas and industry-relevant knowledge.
- Research Opportunities – Many universities offer research opportunities for students. Undergraduate students can carry out research under the aegis and mentorship of a professor. Universities offer opportunities to publish this research as well. At the University of Texas, for example, students have published on a wide variety of research topics across science, humanities, and commerce. From computational sequencing and humanization of antibodies to the value of artistic freedom in the Arts – these are just some of the topics researched by students. There is no denying that research can be a great way to great experience and build up a student’s academic profile.
- Career services – Universities worldwide offer career services to help students write their CVs, choose internships, prepare for interviews, and select subjects aimed at improving their employment outcomes. Many universities also help students find jobs and employment during their degrees and after completing them. Students should research the types of career services offered, the quality of the services, and the success rates of students who have used these services.
- Alumni Network – A strong alumni network can be a great resource for students. Successful alumni can provide valuable advice and mentorship, as well as help students find internships and job opportunities. Students should research a university’s existing alumni network to find meaningful networking opportunities.
- Location – Location is an important factor to consider when selecting a university. Depending on a student’s preferences, they may want to attend a university in a big city, a rural area, or somewhere in between. Location can also affect the cost of living, the availability of internships and job opportunities, and the overall atmosphere of the university.
- Internship Opportunities – Internships can be a great way to gain experience and build up a student’s academic and professional profile. Students should research the type of internships available, their quality, and the success rate of students who have completed internships.
- Student Support services – Many universities offer student support services to help students succeed. These services can include tutoring, counseling, and financial aid.
- Faculty-Student Ratio – The faculty-student ratio is an important factor to consider when selecting a university. The lower the faculty-student ratio, the higher and more personalized the learning experience.
- Cost of living – A student’s budget can be significantly impacted by the cost of living in the area surrounding the university campus. Before making a decision and choosing a university, students should find out how much it costs to live in an area close to the university.
- Diversity – Diversity is another important factor to take into consideration when selecting a university. A diverse student body can provide a more enriching learning experience and can help students develop a global perspective.
Choosing a university to study for an undergraduate degree can be a life-altering experience. Hence, students should carry out their research about which university to study at diligently and sincerely as it can have a lasting impact on their life. Keeping in mind the above-mentioned points and paying due attention to them can ensure that students make informed choices and succeed in their under graduate education.
Written by Mr. Vikram Soni – Jitin Chawla Team
