By Pete Scherer

College is a serious investment.

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of tuition in the United States is currently 26K per year for a public institute within your state. With a four year degree, that is roughly $104,108. Even with GI Benefits there are other costs associated with transportation, food, and course supplies. College can also require a hefty amount of time. Many students must juggle classes and study time with other obligations to family, careers, etc.

Naturally, you’ll want to ensure you’re getting a good return on your investment. But what qualities should you look for? Dr. Robby Hedrick, Director of transition services for Coffee Bunker in Tulsa Oklahoma, offers some good perspective for future students.

“Attending Harvard does not guarantee a $1M starting salary” says Dr. Hedrick. “Nor does attending Cameron University prevent you from making $1M per year”.

While costs are an important consideration, you will want to also consider what benefits you’re hoping to acquire from higher education. A good investment requires a clearly defined business plan. For students, this starts with the college major.

Different universities excel in different fields. For example a finance major might consider Oklahoma State. However, not every school is necessarily a good fit. While Harvard is a prestigious place to study law, you might want to consider a less expensive school if your interests lie in the performing arts. 

Dr. Hedrick offers this advice:

“If you’re chasing a dream, be clear and know that up front. Your dreams may leave you $40k+ in debt.” 

In other words, when picking your major pay attention to how much your industry makes on average? (You can get a jump on your research by visiting the Department of Labor’s website). Depending on your career, you may find yourself paying off student loans for the next few decades. Does a particularly expensive school offer that ideal edge for your chosen field? Or can you achieve results with somewhere more affordable to your budget?

One thing to factor is graduation and drop out rates. Although these are influenced by several variables they can serve as a heads up for potential issues. For example, if a course has a high failure rate you will want to know whether it is an issue of the professor’s ability or the demands of the course.  For clarity you can reach out to alumni and academic advisors on LinkedIn. For other resources, such as Rate My Professors, be aware of bias from students with a personal grudge.

Furthermore, while coursework is important you’ll also want to consider extracurricular activities and organizations. Does the college have a professional fraternity or sorority for your field? What opportunities for internships are available? While some colleges offer assistance for students, other colleges might leave them to fend for themselves.  Pay a visit to career services. Do they regular skill workshops and networking events? What companies attend the job fairs? By investigating these resources now, you will get a jump over your classmates for job competition.

It is also recommended that you inquire into alumni programs. Who you network with as a college student can determine what doors are open to you upon graduation. Do you have a LinkedIn Profile? You can build your network early by connecting with professors and recruiters at hiring events.

Next, consider the campus culture and atmosphere. Is the campus safe? Students and their parents should look into crime reports, especially if they’re going to be attending night classes. Does the campus offer security escorts? Does campus security maintain a visible presence after dark?

If you have special needs you will want a campus that can accommodate you. What tutoring options are available? Does the campus offer mental health programs to students? Does the quad offer a welcoming environment or have there been incidents with particular groups?

Dr. Hedrick offers this final bit of wisdom:

“….Culture needs to play a significant role. If you spend four years and thousands of dollars you want to enjoy that experience, have fun, and fit in.”

In closing, although this series of questions may seem overwhelming it must be stressed that college is a hefty investment. If you want to succeed you will want to do your research and find out all you can about your schools of choice.

If there is one thing we hope you take away from here it is this: Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.

Written by Pete Scherer

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