Finding U: How to Decide on the Right University

Students and families just starting the admissions process or deciding which college to attend can now seek guidance from New York Tech experts through the new podcast Finding U: How to Decide on the Right University. 

Cohosts Joseph Posillico, Ed.D., vice president for enrollment management, and Karen Vahey, Ed.D., dean of admissions and financial aid, share their decades of experience in higher education. Throughout the academic year they will talk to special guests and help families navigate the college admissions process. The series covers how to read your financial aid award letter, make the most of your college visit, factors to help weigh your decision, and much more.

To date, three episodes have been released. Here are a few highlights.

Making Your List

“Many families are overwhelmed by the admissions process and getting started. Remember, you are in the driver’s seat. Embrace the process. Enjoy the process,” said special guest Tom Shea, New York Tech associate director of admissions, speaking to students about getting started with their college search.

“I always talk about finding the right fit. What’s your learning style? Do you like large lecture halls or a more intimate setting? What kinds of clubs and activities are you interested in?” said Vahey.

Posillico says to think about programs students may be interested in, but to remember that interests change, often several times, so choose a college that offers multiple programs that align with students’ preferences.

The Campus Visit

Vahey and Posillico spoke with Marcelle Hicks, New York Tech senior director of admissions, on the importance of visiting campuses. “It’s the most exciting part of the admissions process,” said Vahey.

“Everything comes to life. The buildings, the people. You can really envision what it would be like as a student going to class and getting a slice of pizza in the dining hall in between classes,” said Hicks.

Now, there are more options than ever to connect with colleges. At New York Tech, there are campus tours, info sessions, discovery days, one-on-one appointments, and admitted student events in both virtual and on-campus formats. The key to making the most of a campus visit is to do your research to know what to expect. Prospective students should come prepared with core questions to ask at each college they visit to compare.  

Understanding Financial Aid

Guest Lijy John, assistant director of financial aid at New York Tech, advises families to look at total tuition and fees (including room and board, if applicable) and subtract their anticipated financial aid to find the net cost of attending college. “Look at the big picture: compare scholarships with scholarships [from each school] but also really understand and compare your net costs.”

The cohosts strongly encouraged families to spend their time comparing programs, information, overall fit, and financial aid among colleges when choosing a school.

Tune In

Listen to the first three episodes and watch out for new episodes of Finding U: How to Decide on the Right University on Apple, Google, Spotify, and Finding U.