How do I go about finding a college?

Question

No one in my family, or even anyone I know... has went to college. I'm in high school and I feel like this is my time to really figure out what I want because people are pushing me in all these different directions and I just want to go to college and be successful.

So I'm making a list of the things that I want in my college of choice...

I want to study business, and would like a job like a CEO or something.

I want to live there, in a dorm.

It needs to have a good library/cafeteria etc.

I want it to be in Florida.... so I wont be to far away from my family and friends in case something happened.

I was considering Florida Gulf Coast University.

Florida state and USF are pretty full and I want my own unique school not some place EVERYONE goes.

I have no idea where to start!!! Ahh!

Any information is appreciated.

The Guidance Councelor at school only helps so much.... and Yes I've talked to them about this.

I'm also kind of worried about my college interveiw and stuff. No one thinks I can do this and no one is encouraging me to do so, im on my own baby!

I know I'll go far I'm a really smart girl I just need a little direction.

Answer 1

A good place to start is http://www.collegeboard.com  College Board is the company that sends out the SAT.  You can join for free and there are lots of options.  There is a college search that is very helpful as well as scholarship info.  The colleges are all over, so you can pick one in Florida.

Congrats for wanting to go!

Answer 2

Finding the University you want to go to takes a lot of time and research, but it's well worth it.  All colleges will have some sort of Business major.  If you want to be a CEO, you may want to look into a Management degree or schools with a strong MBA program for after you get your bachelor's.  I can't think of any 4-year schools that don't have dorms, so that shouldn't be too much of a problem.  As for the library and cafeteria, get on some websites and email some Admissions or Financial aids advisors to ask specific questions about the school.  They can also set up a time for you to come tour the school and get a feel for campus life.  Try Googling "Florida Universities" and browse the websites for ones that you think seem interesting.  Once you've narrowed it down to 3 - 5 schools, begin the application process.  Send in your transcript, ACT scores, and any required essays and paperwork.  Once you get your acceptance letters, you can really buckle down and focus on which school is the right fit.  Consider tuition, school size, class size, campus spread, etc as well.  Don't stress out over it too much though.  If you end up not liking the school you pick, you can always transfer to a different school after a semester.

Answer 3

I am very much in the same boat as you.

some things i've figured out are that...

No matter where you go, you are one plane ride from home. Even if you go to Washington or something.

I have spent HOURS researching colleges to find the best ones for me. One of my favorite websites is www.globalcomputing.com it has a link to every college or university and they are categorized by state.