Tertiary education, also commonly referred to as university, is optional. Despite this, millions of people still choose to pursue higher education every year for numerous reasons, one of which is the more significant opportunities unlocked upon earning a degree.
The process of applying for university is long-winded, and the waiting duration nerve-wracking. Most consider it lucky to receive one acceptance letter, much less multiple. Those who have more than one option and are still undecided now have to face a difficult decision. That is, which is the best university to attend.
If you’re part of this demographic, keep in mind the following factors that can affect your years in university. They will help you make a more informed decision.
Geographical Location
While not the most critical, the location is still an important aspect of your upcoming stay in university. It can dictate several things. One of these is finances, and another is your schedule and accommodations.
For instance, you’re from outside Metro Manila, and you have decided to attend Ateneo de Manila University. You’ll need to either rent a condo or stay in a dorm near the campus if you don’t want to stay in the residence halls.
The same scenario can be applied to those who live in the metro. Considering the heavy traffic on the roads, you’ll have more time for yourself and your education if you opt to stay nearby. The alternative is waking up early every day to avoid the congested roads, which can be detrimental to your health and focus.
Academic Quality
The university sector is essential in producing top-notch citizens, which is why the government seeks to inform the public on which universities can give the highest quality education.
They do so in the form of accreditation. Accreditation is the vetting process that protects not only the interests of the students and their parents but the country as well.
For them to receive recognition from the appointed board, universities need to be able to provide the following:
Mission and Vision
The mission and vision should be clearly articulated, depicting the school’s goals and intentions. These are the principles that guide the school’s operations.
Ethical and Responsible Conduct
Integrity needs to be a pillar of every university, which means that every operation in the institution should be conducted honestly.
It is from the selection process for attendees to the passing of grades. Keeping integrity alive in the institution ensures everyone that trust can be given to the university, its staff, and its students.
Quality Teaching and Learning
Like primary and secondary schools, the university is responsible for educating students to prepare them for the future better. That entails providing updated information, conducive learning environments, and first-rate equipment when needed.
Overall Cost
The final, and perhaps deciding factor, is money for most people. We should consider how much it would take for us to finish our degrees.
If we wish to pursue an education in a prestigious and private university, we may need to make compromises. Is it far from home? Then, we have the option to either bear the commute every day, choose a less than stellar dorm on or near campus, attend a different university, or apply for a job to help support ourselves.
That is because there’s more to funding university than the tuition fee itself. While it takes up a huge chunk of it, we also need to think about allowances, transportation, accommodation, and school materials.
To have the best university experience, we need to ponder about these factors ahead of time. Doing so allows us to consult with our parents, compare and contrast each option, and create plans that will help us fund our tertiary education.
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