Be Curious: Choosing a Post Secondary Learning Opportunity - Through The Eyes of Ms. Dunsford - Rundle College

Choosing a post-secondary learning opportunity can be a difficult task given all of the options in Canada and internationally. As the University Counsellor at Rundle College a question students often ask me is, “How will I know which university to go to?”

A decision of this nature is cultivated with self-reflection and exploration over a period of time. Students are encouraged to explore various long term career options, while focusing on short term choices, such as program options at post-secondary institutions. Students are often challenged by the end goal, whereas the short term goals are equally, if not more, important. 

This coupled with time spent getting to know themselves, in terms of their interests, personality, passions and talents assist students with knowing which program and which university may be best suited for them. The program of choice should lead the decision, whereas the institution “feel” should solidify the decision. 

What is imperative in the decision-making process is going on a campus tour, whether it be at the early stages of exploration or after students are admitted and making their final decision. The best choice of campus is one that makes a student feel welcome; it feels like being at home. 

Parents are encouraged to ensure that students go on campus tours throughout their high school career. It is best to go when the campus is up and running and to take advantage of formalized campus tours, which provide students with great information about the campus as a whole and is often lead by student ambassadors. 

We can support families in planning their campus tours, as well as linking them to alumni at universities to meet and possibly tour students. 

By Sarah Dunsford

Head of Student Services, Rundle College