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Original research, the hallmark of academic study and a staple of graduating with honors, serves as the cornerstone of the academic world. Universities pride themselves in the groundbreaking discoveries their professors and other researchers contribute to the zeitgeist. The U.S. government itself invests in the research and development at these institutions. Sometimes high school students even try their hand by competing in science competitions like Intel and Siemans. Mentorship is key and often accessible by emailing professors who are experts in the field. Your college decision should weigh institutional support as a factor.

Academic life loses its strict structure after high school, and the classroom can only go so far. Apart from course selection and research efforts, undergraduate life can feel largely divided. At first glance, learning and socialization appear tied to buildings- libraries, dormitories, sports stadiums, science departments, and so on. College is ripe for personalization and some universities offer strong reasons to commit on a college decision.