Application 101: Finding the Right Program, Route for Your College or University Goals

College or university? That is the question. If you're in Grade 12, trying to make that monumental life decision can be overwhelming.

For some students, beginning their post-secondary studies with a two-year diploma program is a great option. For others, taking one or two years of university transfer courses at a smaller college before transferring to a larger university is better.

In either case, Lakeland College, with smaller, close-knit campuses, is an attractive option. In addition to its university transfer program, Lakeland has over 80 block transfer agreements with universities and other institutions for programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, business, human services, health and wellness and interior design. These transfer agreements provide Lakeland graduates with the opportunity to transfer their diploma into a university degree program.

But where to begin? The best way to start your research is to go online. Check out college websites, join college Facebook pages, and view videos, photos and testimonials of students. Lakeland College's new website and mobile site offer all of these options with a click of a mouse or touch of a fingertip.

The next step is to connect with an enrolment specialist. By discussing your area of interest, enrolment specialists can help you find the right program "fit". They are also a wealth of knowledge when it comes to admission requirements, application deadlines, residence, campus life, fees, scholarships and registration processes. Text, talk, chat or tweet, Lakeland College's enrolment officers are reachable almost around the clock.

The final piece of advice for a successful application is to apply early. At Lakeland, high school students do not need to wait for their final Grade 12 marks before they can apply. For some programs (university transfer, environmental sciences, agribusiness, business or educational assistant), high school students can automatically receive a $3,500, $2,500 or $1,500 scholarship if your Grade 11 average is between 85 and 100 per cent.