Choosing the Right College: A Guide for Parents and Students

Welcome to the latest edition of "Unlock Your Authentic Self" - your go-to source for strategies that help you and your student leverage true self-discovery for academic and personal success. If we're meeting for the first time, hello! Discover more about my journey and mission here .

The college admissions landscape is vast and complex, with countless options and paths to consider. One of the most crucial steps in this journey is building a strategic college list that aligns with your student's unique aspirations, talents, and academic goals. Here’s a distilled guide from my recent Forbes article , tailored to help your family navigate this pivotal decision with confidence:

1. Embrace a Holistic Approach

The foundation of a strategic college list starts with introspection. Encourage your student to delve deep into their interests and career aspirations. It’s about connecting their academic journey with their core being. Tools like the Highlands Ability Battery, which we utilize at Ivy Insight, are instrumental in uncovering innate talents and guiding toward fitting career and major choices.

2. Look Beyond Prestige

While the allure of renowned institutions is undeniable, the true essence of a college's value lies in its alignment with your student's specific needs and goals. Advise your student to focus on institutions that support their ambitions in a meaningful way, rather than chasing the prestige of a name.

3. Prioritize Personal and Academic Goals

A college should honor your student's personal and academic priorities, whether that means being near the coast for marine biology aspirations or finding a community that shares cultural values. It’s crucial to choose a college that respects and nurtures your student's individual journey.

4. Immerse in Campus Cultures

Experiencing campus life, through visits or virtual tours, is invaluable. This step helps refine your list based on tangible aspects like campus vibe, location, and community, ensuring a good fit for your student to thrive.

5. Cultivate Strategic Connections

Building relationships with alumni, current students, and faculty can offer deeper insights and show genuine interest in a college. Starting these interactions early can enhance your student's application and support their personal growth.

Practical Considerations

Beyond the initial list, remember to factor in pragmatic aspects like cost, essay requirements, application deadlines, and preparation strategies for early applications. Utilizing summertime for academic or leadership experiences can also be a game-changer.

Closing Thoughts Embarking on the college selection process is not just about choosing a destination for the next four years; it’s about paving a path that resonates with who your student is and who they aspire to become. My advice? Explore these steps to develop a college list that truly reflects your student's unique path and potential.

Stay tuned for more insights and strategies by hitting the “Subscribe” button. And remember, whether it's navigating college admissions or finding the perfect college fit, your journey to authenticity and success starts here.

Need personalized guidance? Explore Ivy Insight for tailored support on your college admissions journey. And for more tips on embracing your authentic self, check out my book, "Get Real and Get In " at St. Martin's Press.

Here’s to finding the perfect college fit, by being your authentic self.

Warmest regards,

Aviva Legatt, PCC