What is the best university for me?

Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions in life; whether for your undergraduate studies, postgraduate studies or your ERASMUS exchange programmes. This decision defines your future career, friends and connections. It goes as far as changing your world view and setting up your goals; it is building you as a person and a professional. So, here comes the hard question – “How to be sure that you are making the right decision?” 

The best way to make the right decision is to do a thorough research of all the possibilities, to check everything and avoid hasty decisions. First, and most importantly, think about what you want to study and what you want to do after you graduate – the recipe for a good life is to truly enjoy your job. Secondly, check the best universities that offer your desired programme. Thirdly, check the curriculum, research the lectors and find out what the connections of the university to the business are. Fourthly, check the facilities and the equipment, and finally, the tuition fees and expenses. Those are just a few of the criteria you need to consider. It is always a wise idea to make a list and compare each institution, because all of them have always pros and cons.

Research the curriculum and the structure of the programme you want to study

Go deeper in your research and find out more about the course. Check the type of exams and if the Masters programme consists of team work assignments, writing essays, etc. You need to check what the content is, if are you going to study what you find useful or if the course is filled with some non-practical elements. Furthermore, check the professors – you can read about their backgrounds, see what scientific work they have produced so far and what their passion is. Is there an internship required at the end of the course? Is the university offering help with finding this internship? – A couple of the important questions, which we suggest you look up on the university and programme pages.

If you want to do a research Masters that includes laboratory work, don’t forget to check the facilities at the universities - it is possible that at some they are way more advanced and developed than at others.

Gather different opinions and research the university

If you continue your studies in another country, the best you can do is to make a research on this country’s education system. Of course, you can take advantage of the ERASMUS programme and spend a semester somewhere you might later consider as your Masters destination. Another good source of information is to ask students that study there. However, keep in mind, that their opinion - depending on their experience - might be one-sided. You can read in forums and Facebook or Reddit groups in order to get as many opinions as you can.

Another thing is to meet with university representatives at the MASTER AND MORE Fairs around Europe and ask them in person all the questions that you have. 

Almost all universities organise open days. If you have the possibility to participate, don’t hesitate and go. This activity will give you some precious insights on the university life and which will be the best for you. You will be able to see the facilities, lecture rooms, dormitories, clubs, etc.