Mariel Diaz always planned to get a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college, but she wasn’t sure what field to pursue. Fortunately, Arkansas State University has more than 130 majors to choose from, and after trying out a few different classes, the 19-year-old decided to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology with hopes of becoming a clinical psychologist when she graduates in 2015.

What’s your favorite thing about attending a four-year college? I can study what I want to an extent and level that I don’t believe I could at a two-year college or another type of institution. I can gain a higher level of understanding of psychology at a four-year college.  

What makes a four-year college different from other higher education options? The most important thing is the bachelor’s degree; that’s No. 1. No. 2 would probably be the experience. I really don’t think it would be the same at a two-year college, or in an online program. I prefer learning in an actual classroom where I can see who else is in my class. Plus, there are so many things that you can go to outside of class to meet new people and get involved. I think attending a four-year college gives you a better opportunity to meet people and form stronger bonds.  

What would your peers be surprised to learn about a four-year college? When I got to ASU, I was super surprised at how many people were concerned if I needed assistance. My first semester of college, I was really overwhelmed and didn’t know what to expect since it was very different from the last 12 years of schooling I had. I went to Counseling Services, and it was the most calming place I’ve been and it was really stress relieving just to talk to people. Since it is such a huge campus, you wouldn’t think that the staff would pay so much attention to the individual needs of students. But that’s a main priority. They want you to be successful. If you need scholarships, have a disability, need counseling — whatever it is, they’ll do what they need to do to help you out. I don’t think a lot of people expect that from a big four-year college like ASU.  

What advice would you give high school students about choosing the right type of higher education? I don’t think four-year college is for everyone. People have different lifestyles, and everyone is in a different situation. I think that the best choice for anybody is a place that fits your lifestyle and where you think you can accomplish the most.

LENGTH OF PROGRAM
While it may be tempting to finish as fast as possible, an overloaded schedule can stretch you too thin and result in bad grades. At the same time, some scholarships and grants require you take a certain number of classes each semester or are only renewable for four years. Once you're on campus, an academic adviser will help figure out the right workload for you.
 
COST
Scholarships, loans and grants are available regardless of where you go to school. If you’ve already declared a major, check out scholarships that might be available through that college or department.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Universities typically require a high school or equivalency diploma along with a minimum grade point average and standardized test scores (ACT or SAT).

HOUSING
Most four-year colleges in the state offer multiple options, including dorms and on-campus apartments. Wanting to do the independent thing from the get-go? Make sure your college doesn’t require that freshmen live on campus for their first year.