Guide to Self-Understanding

Goals

Have you established any goals for yourself? You may have an idea of what your family's expectations are for you, but what about your own expectations? Think about what you might want to accomplish in the next 5-10 years.

What do you expect to gain from a college education?

• Will you be preparing for a particular career?
• Are you looking for a broad-based education?
• Are you seeking academic challenges?
• Are you primarily interested in intellectual and personal growth?
• Are there specific programs or services that you want in a college?

Personal Interests

List some of your personal interests. Make note of the classes you most enjoy. List some of your favorite after-school and community activities. What do you enjoy doing with your free time? How can a college education help enhance and expand your personal interests?

Values

Each of us has a set of beliefs and values that guide us. These values will play a factor in your choice of a college. What is most important to you? Try ranking the following from 1 – 10 (with 1 being the most important and 10 being the least important):

___ Academic challenge
___ Career preparation
___ Civic responsibility
___ Diversity
___ Earning a top salary
___ Leadership opportunities
___ Opportunity for creative expression
___ Religious affiliation
___ Social opportunities
___ Status

Learning Style

Think about your learning style and how that may impact your college search.

• Do you prefer small classes that include plenty of student interaction? If small class size is important to you, check the faculty/student ratio at some of the schools you are interested in. How many students are in the largest classes for first year students? You can find some of this information in a college guide but you may have to ask this question.
• Do you enjoy classes that provide opportunities for some hands-on learning? If you prefer learning by doing, you may want to look at colleges that provide cooperative education programs and internship opportunities.

Before making a decision regarding which college is right for you, you may want to talk with some professors in your field of interest. If you feel that you will need additional academic support, check out schools that provide a wide array of resources for students. If you need services for students with Learning Disabilities, visit the resource center to see what services are available at the college. Also, make sure you qualify for these programs and services.

These are just some of the questions you should ask of yourself. Your parents, school counselor, and teachers can also help you identify the answers to these and other questions you need to consider.