What is Your “Perfect College”

When you think about “Perfect College,” what comes to your mind? Bucolic hills, palm trees or urban energy? Classes with 12 students or with 120? Going to a football game, a political debate, an art show or all of the above? You need to know what is important for YOU to decide which colleges suit you the best.

Here are the top ten factors to consider for your “Perfect” college:

1. Academics: If you have already decided on a major, then it is important to select colleges that offer the program of your choice. You should also take into account the special programs offered such as honors, study-abroad, co-ops or senior projects. Also, consider the learning environment. What system does the college offer – semesters, quarters or May/ January terms? How do you learn best?
2. Climate: Think about what climate will you want to live in for at least three seasons of a year while at college. If you have never lived through winter in New England, think about how you will feel about months of snow, rain and later a very muddy spring. On the other hand, how will you feel living in a hot and humid climate? Will you melt? Believe it or not, the climate can impact your experience.
3. Size: Think about what size of college you would like to attend. Attending a school with 20,000 undergrads is not for everyone! What is your comfort zone?
4. Location: Think carefully about the type of area you are looking for. Can you live without a movie theater in town? Do you need open spaces and access to nature? How about a variety of restaurants?
5. Financial Aid: Finances can make or break a decision. Be sure to discuss this with your parents before you fall in love with a specific college. Review the college fee structure to assess your family’s contribution.
6. Campus Activities:  You may want to know if the college has a sports team or offers clubs, music, and other outdoor activities. Think about how you may want to spend your time when not in class.
7. School Spirit: Do you want to attend a school with lots of school spirit? How important are the weekend music or club activities for you?
8. Social Scene: What is fun to do with your friends? Do you like to go to big concerts in the city or prefer to hang out with friends in local cafes, sipping lattes? How important is having a greek life (sororities or fraternities) to you? What social life will be most comfortable for you?
9. Student Body: When you walk on campus, do you feel you fit in? Are you seeking diversity in the student body? Do you want a student body that is conservative, liberal or a mix of everything?
10. Housing: Where will you live? What are the dorms like? How are the bathrooms set up? Are the dorms co-ed or single-sex?
     

Take Action

Think about these factors to decide what is most important to you and your family in a college. Then review the college choices and select the ones that best meet all your requirements. You can also use various online tools to match you with a suitable college.