Think of your college search as the most comprehensive, and dare I say, exciting (?!) research project you have yet to complete. By asking good questions and learning as much as you can about the colleges you are considering, you can ensure a smart investment in your future as well as a college experience that will help take you far in life. One of my goals is to support you in learning as much as you can in order to make the very best choices. With my student-centered approach, your college search will lead you to exciting outcomes - finding colleges that help you to make the most of the critical years of your personal, academic, and professional development.
To start, I encourage students to ask themselves why they are applying to college and what they hope to gain during their undergraduate years? The answers to these questions can really help to frame your college search. For instance, if you see your college education as the foundation for a successful career, you will want to find a school that will help you to build set of skills that will make you desirable to future employers. By choosing a college where you will thrive both personally and academically, you can jump at opportunities such as research, internships, or heading a student organization. Through these experiences you will develop the very best traits within yourself and build a resume.
When researching what a particular college has to offer, I encourage you to consider what your personal experience will be as a member of its student body. I have heard countless times from students that “A+ College” is their choice because a cousin, friend, or neighbor is enrolled there and loves it. When I probe further and ask, “Have you personally researched this college?”, I often get a “No,” or, “I am planning to…”. Consider taking the opinions of others with a grain of salt, or you may be lead astray from what really matters to you. I always encourage students to engage with the college admissions staff directly, ask your own questions of students that you may not know personally, and really put these institutions under a microscope.
The choice of where to apply, and ultimately which college to attend is one of the most important decisions you will make. With the help of a counselor, you can further ensure that your research has left no stone unturned. An experienced counselor can also help you engage in important self-reflection which will help lead you to the most sensible, informed, and thoughtful decisions.
As always, I am here to support you throughout this exciting journey.
