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In order to fairly consider your options and choose the right college it is so important to place them on equal playing fields. First identify the things about each college that make them fundamentally different. These things could be total enrollment size the financial aid package geographic location or the fact that one might offer a guaranteed spot on a team whereas the other one does not. In doing this simple exercise you will be able to clearly evaluate their similarities such as academic rigor campus amenities faculty involvement and internship opportunities just to name a few.
Whereas before you were focusing entirely on the colleges similarities in this next exercise you will focus specifically on those things that differ. This is the Apples-to-Oranges comparison! Take a very close look at those unique factors that make each college different from the other and determine the personal level of importance they each play in your college experience. For instance overall finances might be a major determining factor for your family so that should logically be valued much higher than simply having a spot on a sports team if absolutely no athletic scholarship is offered. Prioritize what truly matters to you.
If you are able to please take a trip to see the campus one more time before making your absolute final decision. Exploring the campus seeing the current students in action sitting in on a live class and speaking with faculty or coaches are excellent ways to broaden your understanding. Picking up and reading the campus newspaper is also a fantastic way to gain perspective! You are considering spending the next four to six years earning a degree in this specific environment so you want to ensure it genuinely feels like a place where you can comfortably live learn and thrive.
Before visiting the campus one last time make the effort to do a little bit of extra homework. Try to find out everything you possibly can about the campus specific academic programs student opinions and active student organizations before you ever step foot onto the quad. Prepare a short thoughtful list of questions in advance that address your specific curiosities and interests. This will help you better understand the academic programs or any other unique aspects of the college that might sway your final decision.
I genuinely hope this simple framework helps you tackle this very important life decision with far more precision confidence and ease. Making the final call is never simple but when you break it down into manageable comparisons the right path usually reveals itself. Focus on what aligns best with your academic goals your family budget and your personal comfort. Do not rush the process and trust your instincts once you have done your research.
As always please feel free to get in touch with us at Capstone Educational Consultants if you have any questions or simply need a little help sorting through your many wonderful options. We love helping students discover their path! And for even more daily insight into college admissions college planning and decision strategies please take a moment to LIKE our Facebook page. We are always sharing new tips and resources to help your family navigate the journey.