Every person places different values on different factors when it comes to picking a college. Some people care about the academics more than anything else, while other people might make their school decision based on the price of the school or the total scholarship package. How important is the location of the college? This depends on the person, but the there are a handful of factors when considering the location of a college.
Related: Social Factors You Need to Consider When Picking a College
Distance from home
The first, and probably most relevant, factor related to location of a college is the distance from home. Some people want to stay within an hour of home, while others want to get as far away as possible. Keep in mind that even if you are 10 minutes away from home, you will still be living away from home! You can still get a great new college experience if you go to college close to home or far away. Another consideration if you go too far home, is that tuition will increase to out-of-state tuition.
Related: Homesickness: The Effect on Schoolwork, Athletic Performance, and Social Life
Weather
Do your research on the weather at the colleges you are looking at. The weather is likely not always going to be the same as when you visited, so make sure you know what type of weather you like or are willing to try. As an athlete, is that weather you want to compete and train in? Would you rather 15 degree morning workouts, or 110 degree afternoon practices?
Proximity to a city
Think about the importance of being near a city when doing your college search. Some people feel that they need to be in the middle of a busy city, while others might want to be in the middle of cornfields. Ask yourself some questions related to this, and see what you would be interested in.
Related: How to Find the Right Fit
Community
Is the area somewhere you feel you will fit in? Are there recreational activities that interest you? Make sure this isn't just somewhere you want to go to school, but somewhere you want to live for four years.
Even when considering all of these factors, you might have no idea if you will like something or not. For example, if you are from California, you likely have no idea if you would enjoy a Chicago winter. Don't be afraid to try something new and take a risk, but doing your research before will help you to show up prepared and make sure you know what you are getting into!
* Originally published on January 10, 2022, by Macy McHale
