What's the best way to decide on a college for a Geography major?

Hi, friends. I'm halfway through my Junior year of high school and I'm pretty set on majoring in Geography. However, I haven't been able to find a clear consensus on which colleges offer the best program for this field. How should I go about deciding which schools to consider for my Geography studies?

Sure thing, happy to help! When choosing a college for a specific major like Geography, there are a few important factors to consider:

1. Curriculum and Faculty: Look at the course offerings and faculty of the Geography departments in the schools you're considering. Is the coursework rigorous and varied, offering both physical and human geography? Do faculty members have experience in the areas you're interested in, like GIS, climatology, or urban planning? Are they conducting research that aligns with your interests?

2. Academic Reputation: Although rankings shouldn't be your only guide, they can provide some insights. Check out the QS World University Rankings, which specifically ranks programs by subject. For Geography, University of Oxford and University of Cambridge have been consistently highly ranked.

3. Opportunities for Research or Internships: Check if the schools have partnerships with other institutions or companies. Are there opportunities for internships in related industries, like urban planning or environmental consulting? Can students participate in faculty research, or conduct their own independent research?

4. Alumni Network and Career Outcomes: Finally, research what recent Geography graduates from each school do after graduation. Are they finding jobs in your areas of interest? Is the school well known regionally or nationally, and will the name hold weight in your field?

Remember, the best school for you isn't necessarily the one that's highest ranked. It should ideally be a place where you can see yourself being challenged and thriving academically, while also nurturing your personal development. Make sure it's a good fit for you overall considering factors like size, location, culture, student support services, and cost.