How to Choose Which College to Attend: Real Talk for Students and Families
Okay, real talk: picking a college is a big deal. It's normal to feel like your brain is doing backflips. But guess what? If you're choosing between offers, you're already winning. Let's make sure you keep winning by picking the right place for you — not just the "famous" one, or the one your neighbor's kid is bragging about.
Give Yourself Some Credit
You made it this far. That’s huge. Take a second to appreciate that.
Let's Talk Money
This isn't the "fun" part, but it might be the most important. College is expensive. Look at what each school is offering you (grants, scholarships, loans) and figure out what you’d actually have to pay. Not just "this year," but for all four years. Spoiler: big debt will follow you around for a long time, so be smart about this.
Go See It … Or Cyber-Stalk It
If you can visit the campus, do it. Eat in the cafeteria. Sit in on a class. Eavesdrop on students. Trust me, you’ll get a feel for the place fast. If traveling isn’t in the cards, dive into virtual tours, TikToks, Instagram Lives, Reddit threads — anything to get a sense of the vibe.
Who Are You Becoming?
College is a launchpad. Think about the "you" four to five years from now. What do you want to have learned? Who do you want around you? Which place will push you to grow in the right ways? (Spoiler: the best school isn't always the best fit.)
The Six Big Things To Think About
1. What Matters Most to You?
Check out majors, classes, internships, and study abroad programs.
Find out if you can easily switch majors (because, honestly, most people do it at least once).
2. Who Will Be Around You?
Does the student vibe match yours?
Are there people from backgrounds you connect with — and also ones who will challenge you to think bigger?
Try talking to a current student or recent alum. They’ll give you the real deal.
3. Be Honest About the Cost
Understand your loan limits and what your family can realistically contribute.
Know that more expensive doesn't always mean better. Sometimes, it’s just location.
Prestige doesn't pay your future rent.
4. What Happens After Graduation?
Look at where grads end up. Good jobs? Grad school?
Check out the career center. A good one makes a real difference.
5. How Much Does Distance Matter?
Are you okay being far from home?
Think about holidays, emergencies, and just missing people.
6. What’s Your Gut Saying?
Are you excited? Comfortable? Curious?
Or are you feeling stressed, out of place, "meh"?
Your gut's smarter than you think. Listen to it.
Feeling Stuck? Try These Quick Moves
24-Hour Test
Pretend you chose a school for a full day. Wear their sweatshirt if you have it. Tell people. See how it feels.
Classic Pros and Cons
List out what’s great and not-so-great about each school. Bonus points if you rate each point from 1-10 and add it up.
Coin Flip
Flip a coin. Before you look at the result, notice what you’re hoping it says. Your gut already knows.
Before You Hit "Accept"
Rate your choices based on the Six Big Things.
Don't waste time thinking about schools that waitlisted you.
Focus on where you can actually thrive.
Make sure you meet the deadline, which is usually May 1st.
This choice is about you. It's not about rankings, bragging rights, or anyone else's expectations. Pick the place where you’re excited to show up, learn, grow, and build your future.
You've got this. Really. And no matter where you go, it's just the beginning of an awesome ride.