Deciding to go to college or go back to college is a big step. One of the most important factors to consider – in addition to what program to take – is what school to attend.
It is so important to choose a school that will suit your needs and lifestyle. Do you have other commitments, a full-time job, or young children to raise? Do you need to know that your instructors are responsive and there to help you? You will want to carefully choose a school that is going to offer support, understanding, and flexibility in addition to an education that prepares you for a new career.
But where can you find this information?
You may have family and friends who can offer guidance, and college websites are always a good place to start to learn about college philosophies and campus life. You can also look to college blogs and online forums.
In addition, just like you rely on Google Reviews to find out what customers think about a restaurant or business, you can also turn to Google to help choose the right college for you.
Currently, Google is the most popular online review platform. Millions flock to it every day to offer their thoughts on a recent experience, product, or service. A recent study showed that 91% of 18 to 34-year old's trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, and 93% of consumers say that online reviews influenced their decision. These statistics show the massive impact Google Reviews, both good and bad, are having on our society.
So, what do Google’s Canadian college reviews provide you with?
Unbiased Opinions
The beauty of Google Reviews is that they are honest evaluations written by unbiased third parties. There is no pressure to write something positive. Google Reviews give students and alumni the power to recount their experiences with authenticity. The lack of personal investment on the part of the reviewer gives Google Reviews added credibility.
Peer Reviews
What are you really looking for when you scroll through a college’s Google Reviews? Aside from favourable comments, you’re looking for people who remind you of yourself; people who are in the same stage of life or life circumstance as you – whether you are unemployed and need a new direction, looking to grow professionally, in a dead-end job, looking for a career that can provide more financial security, single or have a family, or have a full-time job. The reviews can give you a sense of how people from a variety of circumstances, including yours, have succeeded in securing a brighter future with a particular college.
There is great power in a student’s testimonial, and if you can see aspects of yourself reflected in the positive experiences of others, this may be a good indication that you, too, can succeed using the tools this college offers.
What to Look for in Google Reviews
Here are a few elements to look out for when scrolling through a college's Google Reviews.
Learning Environment
How have current students and alumni described the atmosphere at the college? Are people commenting on the welcoming and encouraging environment? Do the college instructors appear to support and uplift their students? The nature of the learning environment is an important factor to consider when scrolling through Google Reviews to find the right school for you.
Responsiveness of College
While you’re reading college reviews, take note of how responsive the college appears to be. Does it respond to every review, good and bad? Does it reinforce positive comments and attempt to mitigate negative ones? How a college responds to its Google Reviews gives you a good understanding of the nature of the school and the values it upholds. You want to see your college of choice acknowledge and value the feedback being offered so that, if you decide to become a student there, you know your voice will also be heard.
Ratio of Positive to Negative
Are there more positive reviews than negative? Has the college tried to address any issues expressed? According to consumers, businesses that respond to all reviews, good and bad, are seen as 1.7x more trustworthy than businesses that don't. Ensure that the positive reviews far outweigh the negative, however, when you do come across a negative comment, take note of how the college handles it.
At Sundance College, we are dedicated to our students’ success. We work together towards one common goal – supporting our students on their journey to a new career and a brighter future. If you are considering becoming a student at Sundance College, please visit our website and get in touch with us. And, of course, be sure to check out our Google Reviews!
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