Is it ok if I don't have a first choice college?

ForumCategory: ApplicationsIs it ok if I don't have a first choice college?
Kate asked 4 years ago
What should I do if I can’t decide my first choice school?

1 Answers
Susanna de Chenonceau answered 4 years ago
Hi Kate!
 
It’s nice to hear from you again! I take kids’ last names and personal details off of these posts when I can, but I can still see who each one of you guys is.  🙂
 
Anyhoo, you don’t need to have a clear first choice school! Many kids don’t have one top choice college but instead several where they know they would be really happy! In fact, that’s the goal.  The inimitable Joyce S. Mitchell, counselor, always tells students to have 8 first choices, and I agree! Apply to 8 and love them all.  🙂
 
Loving a college is like loving a partner–there are many that can work for you, not just one! Haha. You need to know what you are looking for and then stick to those non-negotiable criteria that you need. Think of things like size, setting, competitiveness, spirit, MAJORS available, and the vibe of the kids and faculty.  (With a partner, stick to CHARACTER and CHEMISTRY. Compatibility [a la shared interests] doesn’t get you through the hard times; values and chemistry, do.)  But, I digress!
 
So, in sum, do your research and know what you are looking for. And then find 8 colleges that have those criteria.  🙂
Easy peasy! You got this!
Yay, college, 
Susanna