How to Pick a College: What to Look For

1. Affordability 

 Setting a realistic budget and focusing on schools that fit within it is a great start to picking a college. Use each university’s true cost calculator to estimate how much you’ll pay. Look beyond your initial offer and explore additional scholarships and financial aid opportunities. If you have questions, contact an admissions counselor—they’re ready to help. 

SEMO strives to make college accessible through lower prices and cost transparency. We offer plenty of scholarships to diminish the financial burden of a quality education. 

 2. Programs

Make sure each school offers a program you are interested in and that it’s accredited. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and prepares you with the skills employers expect.  

If you don’t know what to major in, start with careers that interest you and work backward to find degrees that lead there. Talking to professionals in those fields can also give you clarity.  

Southeast Missouri State University is accredited by the HLC (Higher Learning Commission). Our programs are accredited, ensuring our students receive progressive curriculums to develop important qualities for their future careers. 

3. Support

 Look at class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios. Do you prefer smaller, more personalized classes or a larger campus environment?  

Get familiar with professors by reading their profiles for the programs you’re interested in. This will help you pick a college with a support system that fits what you're looking for.  

Asking for help is simple at SEMO. SEMO offers plenty of support to our students in all areas, with free access to services that specialize in academics, health & wellness, careers and advising. 

4.Career possibilities 

Explore graduation rates, certification or exam pass rates, and job placement outcomes. Where are graduates working? 

Look into internship opportunities and real-world experience built into the program. If you plan to work during school, check for flexible student job options that fit your schedule. 

SEMO prepares students for the job market. 96% of SEMO students are employed or continuing their education within 6 months of graduating. Check each departments alumni outcomes for official statistics. 

5. Hands on learning

Decide what kind of learning environment works best for you. Do you prefer hands-on experiences or large lectures?  

Visit campus or tour virtually to check out the amenities. Talk to current students or professors to get a glimpse of what day-to-day life looks like. Seek programs with strong community or industry partnerships. 

All undergraduates at SEMO can gain hands-on real-world experience in their field of study beginning their freshman year. 

6. Campus life

Think about the campus experience you’re looking for. Explore Greek Life, athletics, student clubs and campus traditions. Choose a place you can envision yourself having fun, getting involved, and making friends. 

SEMO has a vibrant campus life while remaining in a close-knit community. SEMO has 15 NCCA Division I sports teams, a thriving arts community and 275 social and special interest groups students can join. 

7. Location

Consider location. How far is it from home? How easy is it to travel back?  

If you are someone who enjoys traveling, look at nearby cities for weekend trips. 

A great way to pick a college is to schedule a visit. Take a tour of the school and check out the town you would potentially live in.  

Cape Girardeau was ranked #5 in USA Today’s best small college towns. There are plenty of things to do and see in Cape after class and on the weekends. Cape is also centrally located, with options for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway to a nearby city. 

At the end of the day, the right college is one that fits your goals, your budget and your lifestyle. Trust your priorities, ask questions and take the time to find a place where you can see yourself succeeding. 

Apply to SEMO 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

How do I choose a major that's right for me? 

Start by looking into what interests you. Do you have any hobbies? Is there something you’re passionate about? If you answered yes to either of those questions, take time and search for careers within those fields. Then find out what degrees are needed to get a job. Start with the end goal and work backwards to find a major that supports your dream career.  

What are the pros and cons of staying local for college vs. moving away? 

Staying local or moving away for college is a very personal and situational decision. To help you get a full picture of each option, here is a list of pros for both. 

Pros of staying local for college: 

• Living at home will save money. 

• Adjusting will be easier because you're familiar with the area. 

• You know people. 

Pros of moving away for college: 

• Experiencing a different place and culture. 

• A fresh start for a new chapter of your life. 
• More opportunities to grow your connections and network.  

What questions should I ask on a college tour? 

A college tour is a great chance to ask a current student any questions you have about the school. The student giving you a tour can share their perspective on dorm life, dining hall tips, clubs, sports, or anything else you may be wondering about.  

Example questions: 

• What dining hall is your favorite on campus and why? 

• What clubs are popular at this school? 

• What dorm would be best for a freshman or transfer student? 

• What are sports games like at this school? 

What are the best majors for someone unsure about their future? 

If you’re going to college and are unsure what you want to do with your future, consider declaring your major as undecided or exploratory. There is no reason to rush into something that you’re not excited about or confident in. Talk to professors once you’ve arrived at school and started your general education classes. They can help you find a major that is a good fit.  

What should I look for on a college campus visit? 

During a college campus visit, it is important to look for the things you value in a school. 

• Is the campus walkable or has sufficient parking? 

• Did the dining hall have options you would enjoy eating? 

• Do they offer the amenities you're looking for? 

• Did you like the look of the school? 

• Could you see yourself living in the college town?