• I see college as a journey of self-discovery to grow, learn, change, hear and understand differing opinions, and gain a broader perspective on the world.

• I see college as a chance to discover some particular passions and pursue them.

• I see college as a time to develop important skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and goal setting for life, career, and independence.

• I see college as a time for preparing for a specific career/job.

• I see college as a time for a liberal arts education that may prepare me for a variety of career choices. Generally, a liberal arts education offers students the opportunity to explore a variety of academic disciplines instead of following a specific set of courses that train them for a career. 

What do you think you might want to study in college?

What are some possible college majors?

I'm not sure...

• No one is asking you to choose an exact major, in fact, most students change their minds two to three times before they settle on a major. So take a moment to list a few areas that are of interest to you or simply list a few of your favorite classes in high school.

• Would you like to know what majors are available in college?

• Click the following link to find majors that interest you

I'm pretty sure I know...

• List a few possible majors or areas of study that you would like your college to offer.

What academic programs and opportunities do you want the college to have?

• 2 year vs. 4 year program

• Honors programs

• Research opportunities for undergraduates

• Internships

• Co-op programs

• Study abroad programs

• Core curriculum

• Create your own major/interdisciplinary studies

• Credit awarded for IB and AP scores and the ability to graduate with a degree in less than four years.

• A program that allows dual degrees or bachelor's and master's degree in four years.

Academic environment and learning needs - What do you need to be a successful learner?

• Small classes, easier access to professors, more discussion oriented, classes taught by professors rather than TAs

• Large lecture hall classes are acceptable

• Academic theme dorms with smaller classes at large universities.

• Tutoring and study skills support services

• Resources for students with learning disabilities (IEP, ILP, 504)

How selective should the school be regarding admissions?

• Name or prestige of the school is important.

• I am aware that the most selective colleges admit less than 10% of applicants. See Highly Selective Colleges - I believe that I can be competitive.

• I'm less concerned about the name of the school as long as it has the programs that are best for me.

• I'm aware that I need to Balance My List with "Reach", "Target" and "Safety" colleges.

What is the cost (tuition, room and board, books and fees, transportation)? How will you pay for it?

Range of college costs: $3,000/year for a community college to >$70,000/year for some private colleges.

Click here to go to the Paying for College page.

Topics to discuss with your family:

• I know how much my family can contribute each year.

• I am willing to spend the extra time looking for and applying to outside scholarships.

• I am willing to work during the school year and the summer to help pay for my education.

• Taking on debt is a very serious decision. Are you or is your family willing to take on loans for college?

• Will you apply for financial aid?

• I understand that need-based and merit scholarships from a college rarely pay all college costs.

What is important to you?

• Area of the country

• Climate

• Urban, suburban, or rural

• Close to home

• Travel: nearness to major airports, travel time, cost

• Campus architecture and beauty

• Campus safety

• Access to shops, movies, event centers, public transit, etc.

• Ability to do the things you love in this location (mountain bike, ski, run, visit museums, major concerts and theater)

Does size/enrollment matter in your college choice?

Small school - <3,000 students

Medium school - 3,000-10,000 students

Large school - >10,000 students

• I want a small college that has a close community, most students live on campus all four years, generally classes are smaller and professors are more accessible.

• I want a medium college with more choices but still a distinct community.

• I'm looking for a larger college with more choices; majors, clubs, activities, sports, diversity and possibly larger classes.

Interests and Activities - What else is important to you about your college choice and life on campus?

• Campus housing - theme dorms, honors dorms, housing guaranteed for four years

• Fraternities/sororities

• Sports - I want to play (club, intramural, Division I, II, III)

• Sports - I want to attend popular sporting events

• Religious interests/organizations

• Clubs that interest me

• Performing arts open to all to participate

• Special dietary requirements

• Single gender

• Strong alumni network

• Volunteer opportunities and community involvement

• Study abroad and international experiences

• I want a college with________________________________

Personality and Social Environment - Are these my people? Will I fit in? Are these the students and professors I want to interact with?

• I want a strong sense of community; student involvement, a feeling of belonging.

• I want a college with a strong campus spirit.

• I'm looking for an atmosphere of academic rigor.

• I'm looking for colleges with less drugs and alcohol.

• I want a college with major athletic events.

• I'm looking for a college that values integrity, character, and the importance of giving back.

• I'm looking for students that enjoy philosophical discussions and are lovers of ideas.