How to Start the College Search
Sometimes it’s all about getting started, right? We have a motivation or a goal in mind, but it can be difficult knowing where to start. That is often what I hear from students and parents getting ready to start the college search!
There are literally thousands of private and public degree-granting institutions in the United States. How do you know where or how to begin? I’ve shared my top tips below for keeping yourself focused on the task at hand and being efficient as you start your search!
Determine Your Priorities
Before you begin, figure out what your priorities are in a college. Are you looking forward to an urban or a rural setting? Would you be more comfortable at a large school or a small community? What about the weather? Getting started with basic thoughts like these can already narrow down your choices!
Think About Life After College
Where do you see yourself after college? This can mean your future career, or just what kind of person you envision yourself (and what kind of college can help mold you into that person!). For example, if you want to be a nurse and value a strong nursing program, that can help you begin your college search. If you envision yourself as a worldly, well-rounded human being, a liberal arts education might be a good fit.
Educate Yourself Financially
Yep, the fun stuff. I do not recommend falling in love with a school that you cannot afford. It simply leads to sad feelings later on the process. I highly, highly recommend having a family conversation about the financial situation for college. This will help you already narrow down choices. It is also helpful to become financially literate when it comes to college. Research and learn all about the various types of financial aid (need-based, merit-based), scholarships, loans, grants, and more so you have an idea of what you might be eligible for.
Explore Colleges Online (Before Visiting)
The wonderful part about applying for college in the 21st century is that the internet is at your fingertips! You have so many opportunities to read all about the colleges and universities out there, in addition to looking through hundreds of photos and videos of those schools. You can read personal anecdotes and blogs, follow the schools on social media, and really get a sense for the school and what it would be like to go there - all without setting foot on campus. This is a financially savvy way of starting your search and then narrowing down your list!
Work with a Counselor or Consultant
Last, but certainly not least - work with a professional who will get to know you (or already knows you) and can help you efficiently from the beginning of this process. Working with a counselor or consultant can save you so much time in research and they often have connections to schools and relationships with admissions officers that you might not. They are a resource for you and are dedicated to helping you find the best fit colleges for you.
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Starting the college search can be a little daunting, but by concentrating on these few tips ahead of time, you can really narrow your focus. This way, the college search is a little more “true to size” and a little less overwhelming!