Mar 31, 2017 07:50 AM EDT By Mark Spencer, UniversityHerald Reporter

The choice of which college to attend to is a high school senior's biggest decision. Most would experience living on their own for the very first time, therefore location and aspects that touch on campus life should be factors to consider in the decision-making process in choosing a college.

College is a big investment

Going to college is also a big investment. Choosing to go to an in-state college would cost $20,090, inclusive of tuition, fees and room and board. Going to an out-of-state public college would cost $35,370, also inclusive of tuition, fees and room and board. It would cost $45,370 if the choice is to go to a four-year private nonprofit college, according to The College Board.

College location is key

Many students usually begin their college search by setting limits of how far away from home they would want to be. Though it may be an easy way to narrow down choices, it does not necessarily find the best colleges.

Learning environments

Other students choose colleges based on its campus setting. Some students say that campus size and feel was a big part of their college choice. However, it would also help to visit a college and talking to students is a great icebreaker to get to know a campus.

Financing college education

Perhaps one of the biggest concerns in choosing a college is cost. This is understandable; however, this does not have to be a hurdle. Students usually do not pay the published price because of financial aid. Therefore, it is not always wise ruling out a college because of cost.

Picking majors

Another factor to consider is the programs offered by the college of choice. A college major is a subject a student will spend the most time studying. Many students feel they need to know what they would be majoring in before they start college. This should not be so since students change their major more than once.

College is about learning; therefore, it would help in choosing when school choice provides an ideal learning environment. Another factor to consider is if the college's academic style fits you.

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