How Choosing the Right College Can Shape Your Life Perspective?

Which would be the best college, which college should I go for, will that college offer the best opportunities, or what subjects to go for after 12th class are probably one of the first and most important decisions you make in your life. So, it should not be an arbitrary or emotion-driven decision. As getting into a college is the stepping stone to your career ahead, you must make an informed decision. 

Also, choosing a good course is equally important as choosing a good college. Okay, we know that colleges are becoming good at marketing themselves, making it all the harder to choose the right college. Do not worry; we have got you covered. We will help you to curate a list you can tick off to find the best college in India yourself. 

How to choose the perfect college for your career?

Get ready with a pen and paper to list colleges you have dreamt of, heard of, colleges near your home, etc. Don't worry if the list comes out a bit long. In the coming sections, you are going to tick the boxes against each college name according to some factors. In the end, you would be left with a couple of colleges that may be ideal for you.

To choose your course, start with understanding what is it that you really like. Yes, start with this! It may sound straightforward, but when you get into exploring and researching what interests you. You will find more interesting options you never knew of. This will also help you in creating a list of colleges, as you already know what you want to study. Even if you haven't decided yet what you want to learn, keep researching so that you can find some options. You can also ask your parents, senior friends or teachers at your school for some opinions.

Chalk down a list of colleges

Make a list, including every college you may like to go to. The options in the list can be based on any factor like location, your personal preference, your friend's suggestions, your parent's opinions etc.

Put on your research cap

Once you have made a list, start researching the colleges. Go to google, find their website and try reading more about what courses they offer. Tick on the college names that provide the course you are interested in. Also, see the accreditation of the colleges. Most institutes have accreditation information on their website; make sure you check it. 

Know the costs

You should know what you will have to pay if you plan to pursue your graduation at a specific college. The college website can give you a rough idea, but don't assume it as the final cost. Contact the college or visit them personally to get a final figure. You can also ask the college if they provide any aid or scholarships. This would cut down the total cost immensely.

When looking for cheapest universities in India, remember that government institues will cost you less than private institutions. But that does not mean that government colleges offer low-quality education or that private ones have a good education and vice versa. Sometimes, students don't get a proper education even after spending lakhs. Therefore, it is wise to find a mid-ground and find a college that is affordable to you and provides quality education.

As the quality of education is usually related to faculty, try learning more about the faculty from the internet. You can also interact with some of them when visiting the college for enquiry.

• The location

  Now, location choice depends on individual preferences, such as whether you prefer your college in a quiet town or a bustling city. In addition, also find out if the college's location suits you, whether you can travel to the college every day. If it seems impossible, you can opt for a hostel facility. But bear in mind that hostel and mess facilities at a college come with a cost. 

• Career opportunities

  This is the most crucial factor when picking a college, as a good college will orient you for your upcoming career opportunities. See what on-campus placement the college has and if they have any career counselling for students. A good Alumni network of the college will give a fair idea of what the college can offer. If most amateurs are doing great in life, you have got your answer.

• Campus life

  Don't forget to live a college life while studying. Make sure the college has a good campus culture to motivate you to participate in extracurricular activities. This would help you to build soft skills and intra-personal skills. Every college has a different campus culture; go for the one that makes you feel at home! Because it is where you would spend most of your day and the next 3 or 4 years of your life!

Best Colleges in India 

Now that you know how to make a college list, to give you more choices, there are the top universities in India to help you shine brighter in your college life and future career. 

1. Delhi University (DU)
2. Jawarlal Nehru University (JNU)
3. University of Calcutta
4. Savitribai Phule Pune University 
5. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
6. University of Madras
7. Aligarh Muslim Univesity
8. Jadavpur University
9. University of Hyderabad
10. Jamia Millia Islamia 

Picking the right college from heaps of options can overwhelm you. Don't hesitate to ask for help from your parents or elders if necessary. 

Why Sunstone?

You can also turn to Sunstone for all kinds of professional guidance. We strive to help explore your prospects with multifarious career paths while being part of a booming digital community of students. No matter what your background or interests are, our cutting-edge certifications and unique financing alternatives have you covered! 

About Sunstone

Sunstone is a leading higher education services provider that works with academic institutions in upskilling students for employability. Sunstone offers career-oriented training interventions for undergraduate and postgraduate students at 40+ institutions across 30+ cities.

Sunstone’s training programs are industry-endorsed to enhance employability. These programs are designed for hybrid delivery with an unparalleled focus on soft skills and personality development. Sunstone’s focus is to provide students with a holistic educational experience.

FAQs

When do you have to decide on a college?

If possible, you should start thinking of the right college when you take up a stream in class 11. It can be very helpful if you are focused. But also keep a few backups. Make sure you find out the fee structure, subjects, location etc., before setting your heart on an institute.

When should you start looking at colleges?

A lot of thinking goes into picking a college. Therefore, it is recommended that you start doing it as soon as you are certain of what you wish in life. Some students start looking for colleges after their 10th, while some wait for their 12th results to be out. Though, we recommend that you get on with your search a little earlier. Chalk out your priorities and then analyse each institute accordingly.