One of the top reasons students drop out of college is because the college is not a good “fit” for them. Finding the right fit is an overlooked part of the college search and application process. Most students choose their college because it is close to home, or they think it is most affordable. The fact is, that most students do not know how to evaluate a college for “best fit”. So let’s take a look at some things you can do in the search for the “right” college.
Once it is determined that you are interested in going away to a 4 year college there are several things to decide. Do you want to go to a private or public college? Many families bypass the search for the private college because they look at the sticker price and decide that is much too expensive. That is not always the case, since the private schools are the most generous. So do not rule them out based on total cost of attendance.
Size and location are the next factors to consider. Many times students have a very narrow view of their options. Students who are willing to go further from home have more choices. Students who want “big time” athletics will typically need to choose a large public university and students who want a more personal relationships with other students and their professors may prefer a smaller, private college. Students who will feel lost in a class of 300-800 may find comfort when they pass by a professor who knows them by name. Students who prefer small group discussions to lectures will likely feel better at a smaller school.
The campus setting can also be an important factor in the search. Some students want to be in a more rural setting where they can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, or skiing. Whereas others prefer the urban environment where they can participate in the action of city life.
Applying to colleges that are an academic fit is also a very important part of the college selection. Some students prefer an academic challenge and others prefer a more level playing field. It is important for students to evaluate their academic status at each school to which they will apply. It is devastating to get multiple denial letters and also a waste of an application fee (which can be as much as $90) to apply to a college where you will likely not be accepted. So it is important to be sure that you are going to have a good chance for admission based primarily on academics before you apply. In addition, it is important to choose a college that has the major you want and also a back up major in case you change your mind. Contrary to what many students believe, every college does not offer every major.
Most students are not really sure about which of these factors matter most to them and this is when the college visit can pay big dividends. Watch for next month’s article, “Making the Most of Your College Visit”
