Three Weeks Left!
Good morning! and Happy Spring!
Since coming back from break, I've been moderately busy...an exam here, an assignment there, a bunch of meetings, events, grading everywhere else. Right now, it is definitely hard to believe that the *last* day of classes is only THREE WEEKS from today!
Within the next few weeks, I've got a few more assignments, I believe, a couple of quizzes, and a final draft of a paper left, nothing too huge. Finals begin on April 17th, and my four exams are split half and half over two days, April 17th and 21st. They're either at 8am (too early!) or 1pm. After all of that is over with, SUMMER! I'm so excited!
Moving on...By now, admission decisions should be out or maybe just slowing rolling out. I just want to congratulate anyone who has been accepted not only by Northeastern, but also by any other colleges as well, so "CONGRATULATIONS!" =)
Deciding which college to attend can definitely be a hard decision. I applied to only 4 colleges--rejected by 1, wait-listed by another, accepted by the rest. For me, it was a clear choice between the two schools that accepted me. However, if I remember correctly, I *did* wait until I had received all 4 of my decisions first before making a final call. While making my decision, I considered two factors that were most significant to me: location and finances.
Location was an important aspect for me. I've spent all my life in the suburbs and I really felt that I should try putting myself out there in the city, and in this case, Boston. Providence just didn't count. Honestly, I don't want to go to a school that's "out in the middle of nowhere", and I really wanted to be around a lot of people. I would like to be able to go where I want, when I want to (for the most part) without having to drive at least 15-20 minutes outside of campus. When you're in a larger city, you have many more options, and hey, I like options! One of my friends says that "Boston is his campus", and I can't agree with him any more.
The financial aspect was a biggie for me, and it still is. Seriously, who *wants* to pay for school for the rest of their lives? Definitely take a look at your financial aid package and consider your other options as well--outside scholarships, loans, etc. You really don't want to work all the time trying to pay off for school. You need time for yourself!...to do your homework! Oh, and to have fun too! :) "Education first." My parents say it. My head developer says it. Don't let the whole money thing get to you too much. Sure, you can work and bring in some money, but don't overdo it. Leave all the working to when you go on co-op! Once you do, you get more of a chance to pay for your expenses, and not to mention, if you take out loads, you typically don't have to repay your loans until 6 months after you graduate anyway. You have time. That's my point. So spend it wisely! College should be enjoyable!
Like I said, these were the most important things *I* looked at when trying to choose a college. I'm sure there are many other aspects to consider as well, and that's fine too! You should look at the overall package!
As I've mentioned in my previous entry, try taking another campus tour if you haven't already and/or somehow set up a time when you could perhaps talk to a current student (one who's studying your intended major would make the most sense). Get more of a feel of each of your choices.
Regardless of your final decision, I wish you the best of luck!
As always, feel free to post questions and comments! I've already had one so far, so I'm looking for more!
Out.