Five Questions that will Help you Find the Right School

By Mark Coote

What program do you want to specialize in? Most schools offer hundreds of programs but are known within the academic community as specialists in one or two disciplines. Your job is to find those schools that specialize in your area of study.
1. What learning style do you believe would be best for you? If your’ learning preference is to attend lectures, read books and prepare essays, than focus on universities. If your’ learning preference is to take what you’ve learned in a classroom environment and apply it in a physical setting such as a lab, then focus on government accredited community colleges.

   “University is more theoretical. I wanted the benefits of practical knowledge – that’s what is important to me, the application of knowledge. The teachers here are great, and the learning experience in the classroom has been very useful.” says Vishal Member, Business Administration Student at Centennial College.

2. What type of educational setting are you looking for? If you want to be part of a student body that is primarily “Canadian” then focus on institutions outside of the main urban areas such as Toronto and Vancouver. If multiculturalism in the classroom and in your city appeals to you, Toronto is the most multicultural city in the world and a destination of choice for many international students from around the world.

   “How about Friends? No worries here. People are friendly and helpful. I truly enjoy meeting new people and making friends with other students from every part of the world” continues Billy Herman reflecting on his choice to study Aviation in Toronto at Centennial College.

3. How important is working part-time during your studies? If working part-time is essential to contributing towards your living expenses, institutions located in larger urban areas will generally offer more part-time job opportunities.
4. What is the length of time you’re prepared to study before you start your career? If you wish to obtain an undergraduate credential in four years, then university is your best option. If you wish to obtain a credential in two or three years, then select a community college.

By answering these five questions, you’ll have given these key considerations enough thought to be able to find your dream school in Canada. For more information and guidance throughout your research and planning process, connect with the Centennial College International Centre on Facebook or contact international@centennialcollege.ca for individual assistance.