The Opportunities of College Geographic Locations

Location should be a major consideration of students looking ahead to their college years. It’s not just how far from home a student wants to move; it’s whether one is seeking an urban environment, a suburban feel, or the quiet countryside.  

Some students choose to recreate the vibe of their hometown, while others seek a whole new environment. Location is a factor that greatly influences one’s college experience, so it should be carefully considered.

 

Students seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of a bustling city often seek schools in New York City, Boston, Washington D.C., or Philadelphia.  Those favoring a suburban or rural feel may want to check out colleges in the heartlands of Pennsylvania, a state that hosts more than 100 four-year institutions.

 

Location is an important criterion even beyond the feel of a campus.  Often, a particular location is preferable based on a student’s college major. 

Students seeking a career in government may favor a college in Washington D.C., such as American, George Washington, or Georgetown University, where they can likely secure internship opportunities and engage in politically oriented volunteer work and activities. 

 

Those preparing for a career in medicine may want to attend college in a city that is home to prestigious medical centers, such as New York, Philadelphia, Boston, or Chicago.

 

Those seeking a career in finance may love living and studying within a stone’s throw of Wall Street: Columbia University, New York University (NYU), Fordham University.

 

Those seeking a career in theatre or film may seek a college on the east or west coast, such as The Julliard School, Columbia, or NYU in Manhattan, or University of Southern California (USC) or UCLA in Los Angeles.

 

Students seeking a career in Petroleum Engineering may want to head to Texas, where two of the three top schools are located: Texas A & M and University of Texas at Austin. Those favoring Aeronautical Engineering may favor Daytona Beach, Florida, home to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, or University of Colorado at Boulder, a city that is integral to the industry.

 

Students should also think seriously about where they hope to launch their future career and adult life, as it’s often beneficial to seek their higher education in the area. Then, they will benefit from the connections, networking opportunities, and friends they make along their educational journey.

Susan Alaimo is the founder & director of Collegebound Review, offering PSAT/SAT^® preparation & private college advising by Ivy League educated instructors. Visit CollegeboundReview.com or call 908-369-5362