It's about that time of year where the graduating seniors are making their final decision for next year. Acceptance letters are coming out and it's time to start narrowing down the options. For some, they apply to one school, and one school only. Although for others, they apply to 5+ schools, having no idea where in the world they want to go, or what they want to do. Those two things don't make choosing a college any easier. Choosing a college is probably the hardest decision to make in high school. I mean, its the next four years of your life, you have to make sure you make the right choice, right? If picking a college is stressful and difficult for you like it was for me, then consider some of these things before making your final decision.
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1. Take your time
NO need to stress yourself out about this. It may seem like you
are running out of time, or like every one of your friends knows where
they are going, but I promise, right now you have time to do some
research and figure it out.
2. Visit
Schedule a visit through your school, with a tour group, you'll
see what kind of people are interested in that school as well as see all
the things it has to offer.
3. Visit on your own
Aside from visiting the school with a tour group, go visit the campus on a weekend for a game or party!
4. Talk to people
One of the best ways to figure out what a certain college is like
is by talking to people who go there already. You may be thinking, well
I don't know anyone that goes to this school... better start creeping
on social media
5. Consider all your options
Just because one really good school is the first to accept you,
be sure to wait it out and see what other schools come along. There's no
need to rush in making a decision.
6. Do what's right for you
Just because all your friends are going to one school doesn't
mean you should go too, have a reason to go to the school you're going
to.
7. Be ready to answer the question "Why?"
If you can't figure out an answer to this question about the school you chose then it probably isn't the right school for you.
8. Pros and Cons list
Is you're really stuck between a few schools, do more research and see if one school can fulfill your wants more than another. Be sure to be honest with yourself when making a list. This could be the way to your final decision.
9. Stay Positive
Don't be too hard on yourself, weather it's because you didn't
get into one you wanted. This is a stressful time for everyone, so keep a
smile on your face and keep pushing through.
10. Think about what you want out of college
Small school or a big school? Public school or private school? Are you gonna plat a sport? Greek life? Housing? Major?
11. "Rankings" don't matter
Just because one school may have a better "smart" reputation than another, don't let that be the reason why you're going there.. even if you're too afraid to admit that to yourself. Your reputation won't matter once you're in college, so it's important to go to a school you know you'll be happy at. Going to a smart school, yes will make you look smart in the beginning, but it will not be the right fit for you if you do not absolutely love it.
