Choose a college or university
&hoosing the right college or university can be overwhelming. After all, your decision will have long-term ramifications. It’s important that you get your time and money’s worth with the institution you choose. “Students should visit prospective colleges and determine if the culture and environment fit their personal needs and learning style,” said Janet Hunter, director of Student Success at College of the Ouachitas. Some schools have a small student-to-teacher ratio, while others have auditoriums filled with students listening to lectures. As you begin your research, be sure to look for information on class sizes and student population. “At College of the Ouachitas, you are not a number,” said Kim Armstrong of COTO Student Affairs. “The COTO campus provides a familylike atmosphere. … If you desire a college that offers a personal and intimate approach to learning, COTO is for you.” The reputation of a university or college is very important and can open or close doors in your career. It is vital that the college you choose has the appropriate courses and works to ensure your success, such as through implementation of the COTO Career Coach Program, which assists students in five surrounding partner schools, starting as early as the eighth grade, to help them explore various careers, colleges and training opportunities. Social events, extracurriculars and school community are other elements to consider when choosing a college. COTO staff members pride themselves on the school’s tight-knit community that works for the success of its students. “We help direct students to resources that can assist with their specific needs, offering programs that can assist with the cost of child care, gas, tutoring and disabilities, to name a few,” said Vegina Smith of COTO Student Affairs, adding that alongside assistance resources, “COTO also provides numerous opportunities for students to interact with the community through service learning and community service projects, the Student Government Association or college clubs.” Programs such as this not only allow students to network but also involve them in a productive atmosphere that works for the benefit of their academic and personal lives. When you have outside commitments or you prefer to learn at home, consider taking online courses. If you are a student with a lot of outside responsibilities, checking out prospective institutions’ class schedules and offering of online classes could be beneficial. Keesha Johnson, director of Admissions at COTO, said the school keeps its students’ busy schedules in mind and offers a variety of course options, including traditional daytime classes, night classes and online classes. “Students who are looking for a warm and welcoming environment, specialty programs of study, various course times offered, online courses and/or a variety of campus activities will find College of the Ouachitas to be a good fit for them,” Armstrong said.