You got in! Now what?

Congratulations!  You’ve gotten into not just one but several of the schools that you were targeting.  But what seemed like the finish line is actually the start of a new portion of the college process - deciding where you’re actually going to go!  As the May deposit deadline rapidly approaches, here are some ways you can make this momentous decision. 

 Remember why you applied in the first place.  What were the things that you were hoping for in a college experience?  Location?  Size?  Area of study?  Community feel?  Campus layout?  Go back to the criteria that you established before you got in - that should help assess whether these schools actually offer what you wanted in the first place.  Finally, if you found yourself adding colleges to round out your initial list, but that don’t satisfy the important criteria that you established, remove those first.  

 Admitted students events are a great way to test whether it’s the right fit.  Ideally you can attend in-person, but even virtual events can demonstrate whether what you’re looking for is actually what they offer.  Keep in mind that these events are fairly curated, so you’re only hearing from a certain swath of students - specifically those who are having the best experience on campus.  That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but you should take everything they’re promising with a grain of salt.  One student recently remarked, “I want to go to a place where I can express all aspects of myself.”  These events are a great opportunity to ask the presenters for evidence of that criteria.  

 Keep in mind that there isn’t necessarily a perfect match, and avoid thinking that “only” the right school will lead to a fulfilling college experience.  Every college where you’ve been accepted has advantages and drawbacks.  What’s more important than thinking that there’s one perfect college for you is identifying what those advantages and drawbacks are, and matching them against your hopes for college and your overall academic and personal values.  

And most importantly, listen to yourself.  You’re the one going to college!  If there’s a place that you’ve identified as the best fit for you, make sure you adhere to your own advice.  You’re going to do great!!!