Hey, Seniors, it’s decision time. Are you having trouble making your college choice? That’s a good thing! It means you have multiple great options where you can thrive. Below are some tips to consider, but remember, your success in college and beyond is much more about you than where you go.
Here is a quick checklist to guide your thoughtful decision-making and encourage you to make your decision based on what is best for YOU vs. what your peers might choose.
Checklist for Choosing the Right College:
- Financial Considerations:
- Calculate Total Cost Over Four Years, factoring in annual increases.
- Explore Financial Aid Packages and Scholarships.
- Academic Fit:
- Evaluate Major Offerings and Strengths.
- Research Support for Undecided Students.
- Social Factors:
- Assess Campus Culture and Diversity.
- Investigate Extracurricular Opportunities.
- Campus Features:
- Visit Campus Virtually or In-Person.
- Consider Facilities (e.g., libraries, labs, recreational areas).
- Location Comfort Level:
- Determine Preferred Distance from Home.
- Reflect on Excitement for a New Environment.
- Career Services:
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- Review Internship and Job Placement Opportunities.
- Investigate Alumni Network and Success Stories.
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- Support Services:
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- Look into Counseling, Health, and Academic Support Services.
- Explore Disability Services if Applicable.
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- Housing and Dining:
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- Examine On-Campus Housing Options and Amenities.
- Check Dietary Options and Meal Plans.
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This checklist covers the essential aspects for you to consider when making your ultimate college decision, facilitating a thoughtful and personal evaluation process. Continue reading below for more tips.
While visiting (or re-visiting) a campus in person, specifically during Admitted Student Day events, is the best way to help you determine which campus best supports your needs and goals, visiting multiple colleges one month before decision time isn’t always possible. Below are additional tips and resources to use to help you get a sense of your best-fit college without visiting in person.
Virtual Tours: Many colleges offer virtual tours and admission sessions on their websites. Start with the college’s undergraduate admission page for the latest offerings. Then, try online college tour resources like Campus Reel (virtual tours of more than 300 colleges) and YouVisit (over 600 college tours).
Social Media: Most colleges have Facebook groups for admitted students. Join them to connect with other admitted students and read the discussion. Search for YouTube videos on your colleges of interest to find students sharing information and experiences about their colleges.
College Admissions Offices: Look for announcements for organized virtual tours and virtual admitted student events from your colleges. Reach out to your regional admission representative to ask for their recommendation on how best to experience the college virtually. See if they can connect you with a student ambassador through Zoom or FaceTime.
Pros and Cons Lists: Revisit your list of college priorities and your budget. Have your priorities changed? Create a pros and cons list or comparison chart of the colleges’ features and what they offer you: special programs, IB/AP credits, financial aid/scholarships, close to home or a new part of the country to experience, direct admission to your major, graduation and retention rates.
College Websites: Look at curriculum requirements and co-curricular opportunities for your prospective major. If you’re undecided, investigate advising resources for students with undeclared majors. Explore the Student Life section to learn about student organizations and club sports. Reach out to current members to learn how and when you can get involved.
Connect with a current student: If you don’t have a personal connection at your prospective college, ask the admissions staff to connect you with someone in your major of interest. Ask current students about their experience, what advice they have for prospective students and the reason why they chose to attend that school.
Good luck!
collegeboundandready 