Canada's many degree and diploma granting institutions offer a diverse range of high quality academic, technical, and business programs.  As you proceed with your selection of a post-secondary institution there are many resources available to help you.  You will be assisted with your inquiries by college/university representatives, secondary school guidance counsellors and subject teachers.  Everyone will want to give you good advice but the choice is ultimately yours.

 Selecting the college/university that is "right" for you may seem like an impossible task.  To help narrow the field a little, read through this guide and think about the questions posed to you.  By doing so, you will have taken a major step toward discovering which college/university is "right" for you.
 

Gathering Information

1. At Saunders...

Students are encouraged to use the Saunders guidance website and resources in the guidance office in their post-secondary planning.

The following publications and electronic data references will provide you with detailed information about college/university programs:
College/University Videos
Software Information Packages ie Career Cruising
College/University and undergraduate calendars and admission handbooks.

We recommend that you discuss your academic objectives with your guidance counsellor as well as with your subject teachers who may have pursued similar interests at college/university. If you plan to pursue a professional program such as law, dentistry or veterinary medicine, we encourage you to explore your plans with practising professionals in your field of interest.

Many colleges and universities participate in organized information programs where representatives from different institutions collectively visit secondary schools.  This is an excellent opportunity for you to obtain more specific information about all aspects of various programs and campus life.  In addition, many institutions visit secondary schools individually.
 

2. Visiting College and University Campuses

Each college or university campus is notably different.  Post-secondary education extends beyond the classroom into other aspects of campus life.  These include places like the library, the cafeterias and coffee shops, the residences and off campus housing settings, the recreational facilities, as well as cultural events, student governments and clubs, varsity, intramural and recreational sports.  Visit as many campuses as you can.  This will help you get a "feel" for the life of the institution.  Ask yourself, "Will this college or university meet my needs and expectations?  Will I feel comfortable here?"

Many Canadian schools provide special on-campus information days for secondary school students.  Some of these events are designed for students who are interested in specific programs, such as engineering, environmental sciences or physiotherapy. Other special events, like open houses, will provide you with an overview of the range of undergraduate and graduate programs available at that college or university. Check  e-INFO and the university and college websites and calendars for advance notice of these events.

Guided campus tours are available at most Canadian colleges or universities.  Most institutions would appreciate one to two weeks notice of your visit so that they many accommodate your specific interests.  To arrange a visit, simply telephone the student liaison office.
 

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