College Road Trip:
A Road Map BY MEAGHAN MCGOLDRICK
With hundreds of colleges – city, state
and private – nationwide, choosing
which ones to see, or even consider,
is a task in itself – and a daunting
one. Here’s how to scale back your
“to visit” list – if only by a few.
Keep a list
This seemingly simple step can save your
peace of mine. Keep a “college wish-list” and try
(as hard as you can) to keep those you’re leaning
towards closer to the top. This list will keep you
organized and on top of your game.
Keep an open mind
Don’t just see the schools you’re set on.
Schedule time to see a few you may not feel
too inclined to visit. In the end, the right
college for you could just be the one that sent
you a free application (yes, that application
you just tossed in the trash). All we’re saying
is to keep an open mind when looking for the
perfect fit and, perhaps most of all, don’t
settle.
Don’t forget a safety
net
Everyone needs a life jacket -- no matter
how sure you are that you can swim. That
said, it’s always a good idea to have a
fallback. Pick a school or two you know you’ll
get into, but at the same time don’t hold
back! Just remember to have a back-up.
Know what you’re looking for
Speaking of research, go in there with an open mind, but have an idea. Know your proximity and
remember to ask yourself the important questions:
• Location: Do I want to go away away or stay closer to home? Big city or small town? Would I be
comfortable in that college’s area? Travel costs?
• Campus setting: Big school or small school? Two year community college or four year college/
university? Private, Catholic, Jesuit or public? Do I want to dorm? Do they offer dorming?
• Cost: Can I afford this college? Will I qualify for financial aid? Am I eligible for scholarships?
• Size: Are you ready for a half-mile walk from your dorm to your classes? (Don’t forget, that walk is
still half a mile at eight in the morning.) Do you prefer a larger, lecture type classroom setting? Or
do smaller class sizes tickle your fancy?
Surf the web
Research, research, research. Hit the
library and check out some college’s sites.
Remember, you won’t get to see them all,
so look for those that make you want to see
more. Don’t forget your college counselor.
Phone a friend
Don’t be afraid to ask friends, family,
classmates and teachers what colleges
they recommend – especially if you
already have a major in mind. Heck, ask
the stranger walking his dog and wearing
his alma mater’s sweatshirt. Speak up,
and don’t be too shy to ask to stay with
some friends already enrolled.
Feel free to carpool with classmates
and on the flip side, feel free to branch
out. Don’t just see what your friends
are seeing. You never know, you may
convince them to check out a few colleges
they would have never thought of.
QNS.COM
18 SUMMER 2018