Q: We've heard a lot about making sure the academic and social programs at a college are solid. Our daughter also inspected dorm rooms and ate in the cafeterias at the schools we visited. Are there other services we should be aware of as we're considering a college? For example, how important are student services like the career counseling center?
A: There are many services that affect the quality of a student's experience. These include residence life, academic enrichment, recreational sports and athletics, campus ministries, health services, and counseling.
Each of those areas provides well for the needs students have as they grow spiritually, emotionally, intellectually and physically. Because students have such different needs and interests, it's important for you and your daughter to figure out if the schools you're considering offer sufficient support in ways that will be most helpful to her.
For example, even if your daughter has been convinced that she should be a teacher since kindergarten, she may still need the services of a career counselor. Many students change their minds about a major or future career during the college years. Career counselors help students explore career options and opportunities, and they can provide support for post-college job placement.
Career counseling is among several "hidden" aspects of the campus environment you and your daughter will want to factor into your college decision. For example, how valued are relationships between faculty and students? How accessible is the faculty? Are on-campus jobs readily available?
What about opportunities for students to collaborate with faculty in research, writing, directing plays or other interests? You'll want to take all of these elements into account. They can really make a difference during the college experience.
