The university preference period represents one of the most important times in the lives of many high school graduates. Making the right decisions during this process can affect your future career and life. There are many factors to consider when making your choices. In this guide, we will discuss in detail the steps you should follow and the points you should pay attention to when making your university preferences.
1. Know Yourself
The first step you need to take when making your university preferences is to know yourself. Identifying your talents and the subjects that excite you plays a significant role in choosing the right department.
1.1. Identify Your Interests
- Which subjects do you enjoy?
- What activities make you happy?
- In which areas do you want to improve yourself?
The answers to these questions will give you clues about which departments might be suitable for you.
1.2. Analyze Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Knowing which areas you are more successful in and where you struggle can help you direct yourself toward the right field. For example, if you excel in quantitative subjects, you might lean towards departments like engineering or mathematics. If you have an interest in social sciences, departments like psychology or sociology may attract you.
2. Research Departments and Universities
After identifying your interests and talents, you should research which departments to pursue and which universities offer these departments. The content, duration, and career opportunities of each department vary.
2.1. Examine Department Contents
By reviewing the curriculum of the departments you are considering, find out which courses are offered. Assess whether these courses align with your interests.
2.2. Evaluate the Quality of Universities
Consider factors such as the academic achievements of universities, faculty, research opportunities, and the career success of their graduates. Additionally, the social facilities, student clubs, and events offered by the university are also important when making your preferences.
3. Create a Preference List
Now that you have identified your interests, strengths, and universities, you can start creating your preference list. There are some points to consider while forming this list.
3.1. Determine Your Priorities
Decide on the criteria by which the schools and departments on your preference list will be ranked. For example, you can rank them based on the following criteria:
- Academic success
- Location (city, campus)
- Social facilities
- Scholarship opportunities
3.2. Backup Preferences
Always keep a few backup options on your preference list. This way, you will have different alternatives if you encounter unexpected situations.
4. Preference Process and Important Points
The preference period can be a stressful process. Here are some points to pay attention to during this time:
4.1. Follow the Preference Timeline
Keep up with current information to avoid missing university preference dates. Preference dates can change every year, so it is important to follow official websites.
4.2. Prepare Your Application Documents
Prepare the necessary documents for the preference process in advance. The documents typically required include:
- Copy of ID
- Higher Education Institutions Examination (YKS) result document
- Diploma or temporary graduation certificate
4.3. Seek Guidance
It may be a good idea to seek help from a guidance counselor or a friend who has previously entered university when making your preferences. You can make more informed decisions by benefiting from their experiences.
5. Post-Preference Process
After making your preferences, you will need to wait for the placement results. Once you enroll in the university you have been placed in, a new life will be waiting for you.
5.1. Enrollment Process
After the placement results are announced, you must complete the necessary procedures to enroll in the university you have won. It is important to prepare your documents completely during this process.
5.2. Preparing for a New Life
University life is a new beginning. During this period, you will meet new people, participate in different activities, and contribute to your personal development. Prepare well and keep an open mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which university is better to attend?
This depends entirely on your personal preferences. You should decide based on your chosen department, the opportunities offered by the university, and your own goals.
2. What should I pay attention to when making preferences?
You should consider your interests, strengths, the department curriculum, the university’s facilities, and its location.
3. Is it necessary to add backup preferences?
Yes, adding backup preferences is always a good idea. It is important to have alternatives to avoid unexpected situations.