College Planning

College Selection

Makings decisions regarding which direction you want to go after high school can be difficult and confusing. There are thousands of choices for continuing education; therefore, it is important that you find a place that is a good match for you. When looking for a school some things to consider are:

• Make a list of things you want in a school. Is there a certain location, size, major, sport, price, etc. you are looking for? Go to websites like: www. fastweb.com.  It will help you brainstorm about what types of qualities that you are looking for in a college. Many times it will help narrow down your search by just utilizing many of the various websites.

• Explore different schools to see which ones meet what you are looking for. Talk with your counselors, teachers, family, friends, explore college websites, and search tools like:   

www.careercruising.com   

www.collegcquest.com      

www.collegeboard.com      

www.fastweb.com

In addition, the guidance office has a variety of college books, catalogs and videotapes.

o        After you have narrowed your colleges of interest, visit their campuses. Before you go, make a list of questions you want answered.  There is a brochure available in guidance that may give you some ideas of additional questions that are good to ask.  All juniors and seniors are allowed college days, make sure you make good use of them.

o        After you have compared the schools decide on a few that best suit you and fill out their applications. Make sure they are neat, proofread (if possible by another person), filled out completely, and turn them in before their deadline.

o        Wait for your acceptance letters then make your final decisions. Go over any unanswered questions. If you are still confused make sure to talk with your counselor and/or the school directly.