As summer turns into fall and you replace your beach bag with your backpack, many of you may decide to start thinking about the decision you have been avoiding all summer long: where the heck you should go to college! Consider these tips as you go through this decision process.

Do your homework. Make sure your college research is up-to-date. You should not assume that a college offers specific classes or programs unless you know it for a fact. Visit the website or decide to call the admissions office for the most accurate information. Course offerings may change from year to year, so advice from older siblings and parents may not always be relevant—sorry, Mom!

Think big picture. Although many college applicants have no clue what they want to be “when they grow up,” they still have a general idea of their strengths—are you a math person? An artist? Make sure you decide on a school that can get you where you want to be later on. You may not have a specific career path in mind, but you should decide on a college that offers programs that fit your strengths or at least lets you keep your options open.

Take a look off campus. From housing to shopping to safety, look for a college where you can see yourself both on and off campus. You may be spending a good deal of time in class, but think about how you want to spend your evenings and weekends out of class. Let’s face it—you won’t be spending all of your time at the library!

Helpful College Links

College Board

Princeton Review

US News

Simonites who have already been through this process: Any tips for people currently making this major decision? Please send them my way!

Tags: Decide on a College