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Planning Ahead for University |
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September 7, 2010 by Rhona Sallay
Choosing a University and area of study is one of the most important decisions most high school students have to make.
Most students need some help and guidance from their parents and professionals while making such an important decision in their life.
Below are some suggestions that should be considered by students and discussed with their parents while deciding on which University to attend.
Determining an Area of Study
· One of the most important parameters when evaluating choices is deciding which subjects and courses you enjoy most and interest you most.
· Determine what would you like to do after completing University education. Research specific areas of study offered by Universities.
· Ask your teachers what they can see you doing as a career based on your strengths and likes.
· Engage with your guidance counsellor in reviewing the courses that you have taken and what prerequisites are outstanding for your programs of interest.
· Prior to picking an area of study, try to understand the type of jobs which might be offered to you and the type of companies which will be offering these jobs.
Choosing a University
· Visit University websites to learn about the prerequisite courses needed to attend your program.
· Participate in extracurricular activities that grow your leadership and character – some schools consider extracurricular experience when evaluating applications.
· Research about potential scholarship opportunities.
· Register for the SAT, if there is an interest in U.S. schools.
· Develop a resume or portfolio if you are planning to apply for scholarships and/or are required to submit supplemental applications
Application Process
· Attend the individual University information sessions and/or University fairs
· Determine your choice of programs and universities and understand the application process and deadlines
· For Ontario applications - visit www.ouac.on.ca for more information
· Submit any scholarship and / or supplemental applications
After Applying
· Continue to monitor University or centralized sites (ie. OUAC) about the application process
· Depending on when you applied, letters of admission begin to arrive in early Spring
· During March break schools generally have open houses and scheduled tours to visit campus
· If you have been accepted, review your offer of admission and read through all the material provided in the package
· Let schools know of your decision as soon as possible as course selection and / or housing can potentially be on a first-come, first-served basis
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