Pick The Right College Today: Four Great Tips

Our main focus at Hopeless to Harvard is to bring you information that will help you be accepted at an Ivy League school; however, there are broader issues involved in college attendance that many high school students find of great interest.

Of course, each Ivy League school is different. Yale and Brown are distinctively different schools. However, it is important to realize that, beyond Ivy League schools, there is a world of other colleges to choose from.

When you are looking for the right college, keep these four points in mind:

#1 Student body size. This affects a vast array of things. The diversity of the student culture and the faculty to student ratio are just two. Remember that going to a large school is like moving to a big city. You will find lots to do and learn; however, you may also find yourself lost in the shuffle. At the same time, going to a small school is like living in a small town. Most people will know you by name, and you may feel quite safe; however, you may also feel that your options are very limited.

#2 A very important factor is school prestige. There is really no getting around this. If you have a degree from UPenn, Stanford or Harvard, you will have a better chance of getting a high-paying respected position.

#3 Location is everything. Well – maybe not everything – but it is definitely something! Where will you feel more comfortable: a big city, a suburb, or a rural area? You will find that schools located in each of these settings will have their own distinctive feel. You must choose the one where you feel best and most at home.

4. Be sure to choose a school that will challenge you and allow you to challenge yourself. Your college years are your time to spread your wings and explore your full potential. For this reason you will need an environment that allows and encourages risks, offers diverse experiences, and supports your independence. For this reason, you may wish to choose a school that is not in your hometown, even if your hometown school is excellent. You will want to be able to maximize your growth during your college years.

Be sure to visit all of the colleges you are considering. When it is time to make your final choice, the first hand experience you gain on these visits will be invaluable to you. If you are feeling very pressured and having a hard time deciding, a gap-year may be beneficial to you. It can help you gain some perspective and make a wiser choice.

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