By Heidi Papay

As students approach the later years of high school, they are put under pressure to start considering colleges they’d like to attend. There are a few things that will make the search for your dream college easier.

Major

The first, and most important, aspect to consider is the majors that each college offers. If a college doesn’t offer the major you’re interested in, there’s no point in considering it. It is also beneficial to explore the program. If the program for your major seems reliable, professional, and up-to-date, continue to the next aspect.

Social Life

College is a great time to meet new friends and try new things. Whether you’d like to join clubs, intramural sports, or jump into Greek life, you have to make sure that the college offers what you are looking for. It’s also important to consider the other activities each college offers; many colleges have their own traditions and trends that students partake in.

Dorms

It’s important to consider the dorms that students live in. There are often many options open to students, and it’s crucial to find a dorm that is best for you. For example, it may be best for you to live in a suite style dorm room, but the college you’re looking at may only offer dorms with communal bathrooms. To some people, the living situation is not as important, but it should still be considered with care while searching for colleges since it’s your home away from home.

Location

Finally, consider the location of the college. Perhaps you’d like to live in the city, or maybe you’re more comfortable out in the country. Maybe you’d like to get out of your hometown, or maybe you would miss your family too much. The location of a college can play a big part in the way it feels.

The search for a college is stressful and tiring. But if you consider these four simple aspects, you’ll find the college of your dreams before you know it.