When your child starts their journey to find the ideal college, it can be both exciting and overwhelming. The key to success lies in college research and being willing to explore different options. In this guide, we’ll look at a strategic approach for high school students to start their college exploration (without depending too heavily on those ranked lists).
When to Begin:
- Early Exploration: Start the college research journey as early as sophomore or junior year.
- Understanding Personal Values: Encourage your child to reflect on their aspirations, interests, and values as a foundation for their search.
- Summer Programs and Tours: Utilize summer breaks for campus visits and college tours to get a feel for different environments.
- College Tours Close to Home: If your child hasn’t visited any campuses yet, take a day trip and check out a college nearby. Have a conversation with your child about how the campus feels and the different things they notice.
Tools for Effective Research:
- College Websites: Directly visit college websites to gather authentic information about programs, culture, and admission requirements.
- Virtual Tours and Webinars: Take advantage of virtual tours and webinars offered by colleges to gain insights into campus life.
- Attend College Fairs: Attend local or regional college fairs to interact with representatives and gather information firsthand..
- Other Resources: There are some great resources online that students seem to enjoy using, and they aren’t the typical ranking websites. Have them check out niche.com, nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator, collegescorecard.com or collegedata.com.
Building a Balanced College List:
- Diverse Factors to Consider: Emphasize the importance of considering factors beyond prestige, such as academic programs, campus culture, location, and extracurricular opportunities.
- Fit Over Rank: Encourage students to prioritize ‘fit’ over rankings, focusing on finding the right environment where they can thrive academically and personally.
- Low Likelihood, Medium Likelihood and High Likelihood Schools: Explain the concept of creating a balanced list that includes reach, match, and safety schools based on individual preferences and qualifications.
Supplementing Research:
- Informational Interviews: Encourage students to conduct informational interviews with current students or admissions officers.
- Exploring Resources Beyond Rankings: Highlight resources like niche-specific forums and academic department websites for deeper insights.
- Connect with Alumni and Students: Engage with current students or alumni through social media or networking platforms for genuine perspectives
- Seeking Outside Guidance: If extra help is desired, there are college admissions consultants and advisors who can provide personalized support.
Embarking on the college research journey is an adventure that demands a thoughtful and personalized approach. By starting early, using diverse resources, and prioritizing personal fit, students can navigate this process with confidence and find the college that best aligns with their goals and aspirations. Diane can help with this process. Learn about College Admission Packages, click here. Let’s chat, schedule your free consultation here!
