There are many important decisions that come along in the process of growing up. One of those is choosing which college or university to attend. As a college graduate and now an admissions counselor at a major four-year university, there are a few things that I recommend students keep in mind while going through the steps of selecting their college.

What kind of school are you looking for? There are colleges and universities available for every interest and budget. Private, public, specialized, religious, large, small - it can be overwhelming! Sit down and make a list of what you think the perfect school would be. Do you want to be close to home or far away? Do you want a school with a great sports program and active social options? Do you want a school that will focus on internships and work experience? Whatever you are looking for, there is a school that will fit the bill but you have to start with figuring out what's important to you!

Once you narrow down what type of school you want to look for, take advantage of the resources around you and do your research on what's available. The internet can be a great source of information - everything from websites put out by the individual schools, to independent researchers to this site that you're reading now. Again, going through this information can be overwhelming if you let it, but try to take it in stride. Do a little bit each day and take notes. Make a chart that you can use to keep track of each school's characteristics and stats - it's a great way to keep your information in one place and allows you to compare schools quickly.

If you know what subject area you want to study, that's a great way to narrow down your potential matches. However - if you're not quite sure yet, don't panic! (The first semester or two of college you'll spend most of your time completing basic courses and pre-requisites, so you'll still have a little time to decide once you get to campus)

Finally, the most important step is to GO VISIT CAMPUS! You don't buy a pair of jeans without trying them on and you don't buy a car without test driving it. Why wouldn't you take a tour of campus before making a final decision? The college or university you choose is going to be your home-away-from-home for the next 4 or 5 years - go take a look at it and see if it "fits." A college that seemed great on paper may be completely wrong once you're there in person. Another school that wasn't as high up on your list might turn out to feel just right. Bottom line: You can tell a lot about a campus - and whether or not it's right for you - by taking the time to go visit.

This process should help you narrow down your choices and begin to sort out which school is the perfect fit for you. Above all, don't be afraid to ask questions! High school counselors and college admissions officers are there waiting for you to come talk to them - and they want to help!

Learn more about this author, A. Bearman.
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