When researching colleges it is important to find the best academic, financial and social fit. Selecting the right school can save you thousands of dollars. If you are planning on spending four years on a college campus you need to do your homework to determine if you are college ready. You also need to do some self-introspection and be honest with yourself about the kind of college experience you want.
In my counseling with students, one of the biggest barriers to finding the best match is “you”. Some students pay more attention to their peer’s choice and not their own. What is it that you want in a school? Do you want to attend a public or private college? What are your personal likes and dislikes? Do you want to attend a large, medium, or small school? Are you comfortable living in an urban, rural or small town environment? Are you comfortable being in a lecture hall setting with 500 students? Do you care whether the professor knows your name and has office hours? Is it important that your school is diverse in students and staff? Is this school affordable for you?
Do not select a school based on where your friends are attending, or where your girlfriend or boyfriend is attending or what you see on the website. If you are planning on spending a minimum of 4 years on a campus, you need to spend some time researching and evaluating the best place for you. Academically, you don’t want a college that is too easy or difficult for you. You need to understand the difference between Reach, Match and Safety schools.
Safety School–A school that you can easily get into. Your GPA and test scores are well above average.
Match School–Your grades and test scores fall into the average range of the school’s profile and the likelihood of your being accepted is good.
Reach School–A school you may have a slim chance of getting into based on your academics.
In addition to the above, you should have at least one Dream school. If money was not an option, where would you apply? That school should also be on your list.
Remember, you are investing 2-4 years of your life. Put as much time and effort as you would any other major investment-do your homework. The earlier you start, the better.