As a first generation college student, I had no idea how to go about choosing which college to attend. I applied to schools that sent me information after the PSAT and schools that I saw advertised in college magazines. Because of this lack of information, I ended up in a college that did not fit my lifestyle or my personality. I would like to share with you some things you should look for when choosing your prospective college.

1. Retention Rates: College Board lists the retention rates of almost every school in its college search profile. This is the percentage of students that return to the school for their sophomore year. If the rate is low, such as 50%, you should think twice before you attend this school. Students are transferring because something is awry at that college. If the percentage is higher, such as 80%, there is a better chance that the school is worth your time and money. Some schools do not list their retention rates on the college board website, so you should request that information from the school itself. If the college is funny about giving you their statistics, then leave it alone.

2. See What Others Say: On a college website, they are more likely to list positive student reviews about the school. It is important to hear both the positive and negative thoughts about a particular college. Princeton Review allows you to read what students say about a college on their site. You have to create an account before you can read all the critiques, but it is worth it. Students evaluate student life, academics, and the college overall. Like the retention rates on College Board, not all schools have a "Student Says" section. You should still try to get in contact with students at the college to see what they think. Some schools have a section on their site where you can email current students.

3. Financial Aid Rates: If you are looking to apply for financial aid it is imperative that you see what the average financial aid package and the average percent need met is. Higher percent need met ratings mean that you are more likely to get aid, especially if you have great need. Remember: Unless you are receiving an all expenses paid package, you will still have out of pocket costs. The point of checking financial aid rates is to determine how high or low these out of pocket costs will be.

4. Campus Visits: Campus visits help you get a feel for the campus and the people who attend school there. The tour guide is usually a paid student employee from the admissions office, so his or her comments could be quite biased. It is best that you see how comfortable you would feel as a student and a possible resident at that school. See how the dorms are set up, taste the food, and sit in on a class, and talk to the students. Learn what the neighborhood is like and find out what students do for fun outside of the classroom. Comfort and your ability to study effectively in the school's environment are very important in making your final decision.

Good luck on your college search and remember that no college is perfect. Keep this in mind and you will do well over the next four years.

Learn more about this author, L. Raven.
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