Is college even for me? How beneficial will a certificate be in the future? What are my skills? Those are all questions I asked before deciding the college to go to. It was time that I started my journey and set sail on VERY uncharted waters. I also took into account that these waters were brimming with possibilities. Even though there were possibilities, I also saw many uncertainties. Still scared of what I might find, it was only then when I realized exactly how I was going to navigate it. The reasons that shaped my decision-making process were my financial feasibility, opportunities for personal and academic growth, and the success rates of the institution and its graduates.

While all alone in this vast sea, there is a lighthouse of financial stability that stood tall, guiding me away from the catastrophic waves of student debt. This is when I knew I had to be very careful. I was juggling between four different schools at this point. Balancing dreams with the reality of tuition fees and gas expenses became a vital consideration. Strategizing how to get that college experience without drowning in debt was not only exhausting but scary. It was like the biggest shark known to man and I was its prey. I envisioned a future where the weight of student loans would not shadow over my ambitions. This financial foresight became the first condition when selecting a college– a decision that would not only influence my present life, but also shape my future.
However, my financial feasibility is not the only pillar in choosing a college; it is also gaining opportunities for personal and academic growth. This was the second pillar in my decision-making process. Besides the money, I sought an environment that would make my skills flourish. Since I’m majoring in chemistry, I looked at internships and research opportunities that could really help me in the long run. Each institution presented a unique set of possibilities. I had to ensure that the chosen college would be a canvas for my academic and personal development.

As the waves of decision-making reached its peak, I pulled out my binoculars only to see land. I am not far from it. The third and final thing I took into consideration was the institution’s success and its graduates. Beyond the campus tours and silly social events, I researched achievements and the reputation of each college. It got even harder for me to choose. Until I hit land. It was a top four-best public college, top 20 in the nation, with a 62% graduate rate. I felt my feet on the warm sand and the beautiful sun beaming onto my skin. Although I had a rocky voyage, it was done and I had taken everything into consideration.
In conclusion, the reasons that shaped my decision-making process were my financial feasibility, opportunities for personal and academic growth, and the success rates of the institution and its graduates. From juggling between multiple amazing schools, but worrying about my own success and what I can afford, I finally came to the decision that I would be attending Florida International University. I was very strategic with my plans and saw the amazing opportunities the school had to offer. They even had a mentorship program that I am proudly a part of. I hope with this decision I can finally make my own path in life in becoming a pharmacist. I have finally unlocked the door to my future.