Searching for Colleges: Any Top Tips?

So, the reality of being a junior is finally hitting me...I need to start looking at colleges! Any tips on how to go about it? It seems like there's just so much info out there that I'm not sure where to start doesn't help that I don't know the difference between all these college search terms either.

Taking the first steps towards your college search process is an exciting time, so kudos to you for tackling this head-on! It can indeed be overwhelming given the sheer volume of information out there. Here are five steps to get you started:

1. Assess your interests: Before you even start looking at colleges, take some time to think about what you enjoy academically and what you might want to study. Are you passionate about science or the humanities? Are you interested in research or do you see yourself in a more hands-on technical field?

2. Size and Location: Do you see yourself at a large public university with diverse course offerings and big sports programs? Or do you prefer a small, intimate liberal arts college where you get to know your professors and classmates? Do you want to be in a city, or do you prefer a college-town setting, or something rural? Identifying your preferences in these areas will help you create a more focused list.

3. Academics: Now that you know what you're interested in studying, you can target your search to schools strong in these areas. Check if these institutions have the programs that you're interested in and look at their curriculum. For instance, some schools require core curriculum (everyone takes a similar slate of classes with few choices, like Columbia), while others like Brown have an open curriculum where you could even design your own major.

4. Affordability: Use net price calculators available on each college's website to estimate how much your family may be expected to contribute. Keep in mind that many colleges offer financial aid packages that may make them more affordable than they seem at first glance.

5. Start Researching: Use college search engines that let you input your preferences and return a list of schools that match your criteria. Once you have this list, start exploring these colleges' websites to learn more about their programs, resources, and campus life.

And don't worry too much about specific college-search terms—it's more important that you find a college that fits your goals and priorities. Also, consider talking to your school counselor, who can guide you through the process and provide valuable insight. Good luck with your search!