One of the most common responses given when students are asked why they selected a particular college is, “it just felt right.”
So, how do you define feel? How can a parent (and the student) start to put a list together of colleges that might feel right? The bottom line is that there are no rights and/or wrongs for parents wanting to help their young student choose a college or university because every student is different – their dreams, their goals, their skill set, their comfort level and so many other “theirs” to consider. But there are ways parents can help in the process and help their young student find a school that might just feel right.
Here are the obvious ones to consider right away. Price. Major. Location. No. 1 is can we afford it, are there cost-saving opportunities available (like scholarships and financial aid) and how much debt are we looking at? Does this school offer the programs our student is interested in? And what part of the country does our student want to spend (or not want to spend) the next four years of their life living in? Size of the school and safety concerns are also factors in finding the right feel.
In a recent survey, 9- percent of students pointed to a half dozen reasons behind their final decision: affordability, desired program, career outcomes, reputation/academic quality, value and proximity to home.
Michigan is home to some of the most amazing and distinguished colleges, universities, and schools of higher learning in the world. And that includes many schools outside of Ann Arbor and East Lansing. Many young students are viewing the world through a different lens these days and “focusing” more on very specific interests and career opportunities.
The No. 1 rule for parents in helping decide where their child should go to college is to HELP them decide – not make the decision for them. Yes, even if you are paying the bill, it’s their decision and their future. So let them make the final choice.
Parents shouldn’t stress about finding the so-called perfect college, because in truth, there is no perfect college, but hopefully there are a few colleges that appear to be a best fit for your student. Be a guide for your child but understand the ultimate decision will come down to what feels right for them.
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