How to Choose a Medium-Sized College

Hey guys, I'm a junior in high school, and I've started researching colleges. I feel like I would prefer a medium-sized college, but I have no idea where to start. Does anyone have any recommendations or tips on how to find the right medium-sized college for me?

Hello! It's great that you've already identified that a medium-sized college might be the right fit for you. To help you find the perfect medium-sized college, consider the following steps:

1. Define your criteria: Consider what aspects of a medium-sized college appeal to you. Is it the class sizes, a balance between social life and academics, or something else? Jot down what you're looking for in a college, which may include location, academic programs, extracurriculars, and campus culture.

2. Start your search: Use college search tools like the College Board's BigFuture or CollegeVine's college search tool to narrow down options based on your preferences. Input your criteria, such as the preferred size, location, majors, and other factors that are important to you.

3. Make a list: Compile a list of colleges that meet your criteria. You may want to categorize them as target, reach, and safety schools based on your academic profile and the colleges' selectivity.

4. Research in-depth: Once you have a list, start researching each college in detail. Visit their websites, read reviews, and explore their social media pages to get a feel for the campus atmosphere and culture. Look at aspects like academic programs, student services, internship opportunities, study abroad, and extracurricular activities to see if they match your interests.

5. Talk to current students and alumni: Reach out to current students or alumni through your network, social media, or college forums. Ask them about their experiences, the pros and cons of the college, and any advice they might have for a prospective student like you.

6. Attend virtual events, college fairs, and tours: Take advantage of virtual events or college fairs to learn more about the colleges you're interested in. In-person or virtual tours can provide more insight into the campus environment and help you envision yourself as a student there.

7. Compare and contrast: Evaluate the pros and cons of each college on your list. Rank them based on your priorities, and consider factors that are important to you, such as financial aid packages, graduation rates, career services, and post-graduation opportunities.

8. Visit the campus (if possible): If you have the opportunity, visiting campuses can be an invaluable experience in understanding the college atmosphere and determining if it's the right fit for you. Observe the students, attend classes (if allowed), and speak with professors or admissions officers to get a better sense of the college environment.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect medium-sized college that fits your needs and preferences. Best of luck in your college search!