Finishing senior year is a time for celebration for most students, but most still need to complete their academic careers through college. Deciding which college to attend is a significant milestone in a student’s life. But have you ever wondered why students choose the colleges they do? Is it based on location, size, sports or academic record?
Graduating senior Wyatt Hogan, attending McGill University, discusses that his decision was based on prominently a university that recognizes the importance of engineering.
“I decided to attend McGill University because of its global recognition, the international students body, and its rigorous engineering program. I was looking for a large university that would allow me to pursue my many interests and meet new people from different cultures and backgrounds. I have been set on studying engineering, so I was interested in attending a well-recognized engineering university,” Hogan said.
Graduating senior Elina Coutlakis, who will attend Brown University, states that her main importance was the opportunities that came with the university.
“I’m super interested in international relations, economics, and language, and both schools have good programs for that. So, it was a difficult decision for me, but ultimately the atmospheres of the schools, the distances from home, and [of course] the opportunities that they provided me were huge factors in my college decision,” Coutlakis said.
Hogan also discusses that location played a major factor in his final decisions based on his culture, and personal interest in the city Montreal.
“I really enjoyed walking around the city of Montreal, with its mix of French and English, a vibrant culture, mural covered buildings, and small shops/markets. I found the city’s integration with the outdoors and the walkability of the city further appealing. The university backs up onto the mountain of Mount Royal, which has many neighborhood parks, bike paths, outdoor life and a stunning view of the city,” Hogan said.
On the other hand, Coutlakis believes that location does not play a huge factor in her final decisions but more so the international affairs programs available.
“Brown has a great international affairs program, and my friend who goes there currently gave me an inside scoop when I went to visit,” Coutlakis said.
Hogan also discusses that connections within Montreal between his family helped persuade his final decisions.
“My mother grew up in Montreal and attended McGill and has always spoken of fun
memories, so I think that it did influence my choice, despite her attempts for it not to. I have been to Montreal before when visiting family friends and have fond memories,” Hogan said.
Hogan finally states that McGill University will help him accomplish future goals he is empowered to complete.
“My future goals involve working in the engineering field, and McGill can provide a globally recognized education that will prepare me for success in the field, wherever I end up,” Hogan said.
College is a great opportunity for students to further their education and hopefully accomplish their goals. However, the decisions about where you ultimately end up attending are up to you. Many factors remain important when it comes to decision-making, which is different for all students.
“At the end of the day, the important thing is [the] type of person you are and how hard you work to get what you want, not necessarily the college,” Coutlakis said.
