Steps in the College Selection Process
Does it sometimes seem like your friends were born knowing which college they would attend, but you don't have a clue? Believe it or not, an open mind can actually be a good thing when it comes to finding the right college. Too often, students make their choice based on a school's "name" or its sports programs, without really knowing whether it is the best fit for them. Here are some guidelines to help you find the school that is best for you:
STEP ONE: Know yourself.
Think about what you are looking for in a college - size, reputation, cost, location, programs, activities. Make a list of the things that are most important to you about where you spend your college years.
STEP TWO: Know your options.
Read everything you can find about the colleges that interest you. Call, e-mail, or search the Web for information. Look in your guidance office or the local library. Go to college fairs in your area. Keep a file and make a comparison chart for the schools that rise to the top of your list.
STEP THREE: Visit, visit, visit.
Visit as many schools as possible - even the ones your parents suggest! You never know when a school that you didn't expect to like turns out to be perfect for you, so visit a variety of colleges and universities. Go on campus tours, ask lots of questions, spend the night, or sit in on a class to see if you feel at home. Attend visitation days or go on your own. Take your parents, but don't let them do all the talking. Talk with students you see in the student union, the cafeteria, or just walking around. Are they friendly? What do they like and dislike about the school? Get several opinions, because no two students have exactly the same college experience.
STEP FOUR: Apply early to your top choices.
Watch for early application and scholarship deadlines. It's a good idea to keep a calendar with all those dates so you don't miss any important opportunities. Be sure to request all your transcripts and scores. Read your mail and respond promptly to any requests from the college for additional information.
STEP FIVE: Make your decision.
When you receive your acceptance letters, pay attention to housing and financial aid deadlines. If you still aren't sure which school is right for you, visit your top choices again. You have until May 1st (the National Candidate's Reply Date) to let colleges know your intentions.
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Exciting opportunities await the next incoming class with new programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and new ways to experience a global education. - Steps in the College Selection Process
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