High school graduates are gearing up for the start of university studies. Needless to say, heading off to college or university is a rite of passage for many young people; after all, there is a wealth of new people to meet, an array of fascinating ideas to digest, among others.  

But how do you know which University is the right one?

With thousands to choose from, breaking it down to the right choice can be a daunting task, especially immediately after graduating from secondary school.

Prudence Iraguha, an education analyst notes that a student is supposed to plan for their University studies while they are still in school.

"While there are various factors to choose from, I think the student should not start thinking about this only when they have graduated from highschool.”

This, he adds, "Gives the student the opportunity work hard for the target. Because they will be studying with a goal.”

Similarly, Iraguha is of the view that, "To achieve quality of education, Universities should set high standards for all students. This makes the students compete and in the long run, excel in their studies.”

According to Levis Karangwa, a student tutor, there are quite a few factors to consider when it comes to choosing a University.

"Some students will choose to consider size. Some Universities are like cities, where you find more than 15,000 students. It’s an entirely different feel from those that only accommodate 2,000 students.”

Karangwa explained that, "Smaller colleges tend to be more close-knit with smaller class sizes, whereas large ones will have more activities and opportunities.”

Alternatively, he says that while choosing a University, location matters.

"Climate, distance from home, and the size and feel of the city the college is located in, are all things to keep in mind when picking out a school. Some cities and towns are college cities, where the college and the students make up a large group of the population.”

For Diannah Daisy Uwonkunda, University student at Mount Kenya, while the main Universities will always be on top of everyone’s list, "It’s worth considering attending a University that specialises in the career field that a student would like pursue,” she adds, "Have a look around and see what is best for you.”

To ensure that she advises, "Speak to students who have studied at the universities you’re thinking of attending – did they enjoy it? What were the assessments like? Are the lecturers helpful? What is the pass and failure rate?”

Uwonkunda believes that these important questions will help the student better understand and decide on where they want to study.

In addition, Cherish Nkurunziza highlights that a student should consider their academic interests before choosing a University.

"Many schools excel in certain areas, but not in others. Some have excellent music programs, others are known for STEM. Some are top research schools, while some offer specialized majors, it is therefore in the students ability to choose a University based on their interest. "