How do I start my search for colleges?

I'm a high school junior and just starting to look into colleges. What are some first steps I should take when beginning my college search? Any tips on resources or how to narrow down choices would be awesome!

Starting your college search is an exciting endeavor, so let's discuss some initial steps.

First off, think introspectively about what you want in your college experience: what sort of academic programs interest you? Would you prefer a large, research-driven university or a smaller liberal arts college? Do you want to stay close to home, or are you open to studying in another part of the country? This kind of self-reflection can help guide your search process.

Next, research is your friend! The CollegeVine platform is a great starting point for this, as it offers comprehensive information on a multitude of schools. You can find details about the programs offered, location, campus culture, financial aid, and more.

Creating a spreadsheet to compare colleges can be very useful. Include columns for the college’s location, tuition cost, average financial aid package, acceptance rate, size, test score ranges (if available), and specific programs or features that interest you.

When it concerns academics, be sure to check if your potential majors or fields of interest are offered at these schools. Gauge the strength and recognition of the particular program too.

Don’t forget social and cultural aspects of the college experience. Pay attention to campus size, student-to-faculty ratio, sports scene, club/volunteer opportunities, student diversity, and the surrounding area.

Visiting campuses—whether virtually or in person—is also useful. This helps you get a sense of the campus atmosphere, facilities, and the type of students who attend the school.

Finally, discuss your plans with a guidance counselor. They offer a wealth of knowledge on the application process and may even provide you with insight specific to your situation.

Remember to keep an open mind and not restrict yourself initially to a few 'top' or 'dream' schools. There are over 5,000 colleges and universities in the U.S., and many of them could provide a fantastic education and enjoyable college experience.