The college application process can be an exciting time for high schoolers who are preparing to take that next leap towards the career they’ve always wanted. However, it can also be a stressful time, making sure that applications are filled out and sent in prior to deadlines.
There’s also making sure that the college essays you submitted are at their best, and keeping appointments with admissions officers and guidance counselors to stay in the know each step of the way. As you look through your options, here are some things to consider before you go and buy that hoodie from the school store.
Geography
From dream colleges to safe schools, it’s important to consider where you’re attending college. A college admission advisor can provide insight into just what you’re looking for in a school. Some people prefer a city environment where everything is within walking distance of the dorm. Others prefer a more rural, small-town environment.
Be sure to consult with those college officials during the admissions process to get a better feel of the area, setting up trips or even overnights in the dorms to get a taste of what college life will be like for you as an undergraduate. Remember, you want to feel comfortable in your social environment as you do in the classroom.
Choosing a Major
You don’t necessarily need to know what major you wish to study when beginning your college journey. Few high school students actually go into the admissions process knowing just want they want to pursue. Some college students can change their minds before settling on a major and still graduate on time in four years. This open-mindedness is actually an asset that leaves students open to more academic experiences.
There’s nothing wrong with a unique approach to finding the major that’s right for you. You may find a better subject within the program you’re in. For example, if you’re in communications school, you may want to switch from PR to journalism. College applicants may feel better starting at a two-year college before pursuing the four-year approach at a private college.
Affordability
When meeting with a counselor to weigh your options, it’s important to consider your expenses. Selective universities may offer scholarships and loans based on your financial situation. However, be sure to look at what you can personally afford beyond tuition, such as books, housing expenses, and enough money for a rainy day fund. If your family’s finances are putting you in a difficult spot, make note of that in your admission essays.
If you have a family member who is undergoing infusion therapy or is battling a long-term ailment like Parkinson’s disease, a financial aid officer may be able to point you towards grants and other financial options to work for your family’s current situation. A college education nor a chemotherapy session should have to be sacrificed because of money.
Pros and Cons
As you meet with a guidance counselor or college admissions officer, be sure to comb through the options early. Start creating a shortlist, ranging from safe schools to dream colleges, of where you’d consider attending. From there, weigh the pros and cons of each university. This should include all factors from the cost of a semester to accessibility to your home.
You may want to switch a different school into the mix after meeting with a college consultant, and that’s fine. You just want to set deadlines for yourself to make sure you are keeping on top of the application process. While schools may offer extensions on applications, this does end up costing you more. Most importantly, make sure when you pick the institution that’s right for your path forward.
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