Ivy or Elsewhere: Does It Matter Where You Go to College?
There are lots of reasons to apply for a place in Princeton (University). An Ivy League should distinguish your CV from the other applicants if you're considering a short stint in an internship before receiving your undergraduate degree. It could attract recruiters (when you're looking for a job). Your family should be proud of you. And the mere mention of Princeton might lead to a first date. All of these things wouldn't be a guarantee if you apply for admissions at Williams College, which won't be the first choice for many high school senior students. It wouldn't matter if you'll do your best, though.
Many parents are serious about where their children go to college, and their reasons have nothing to do with the brand. (It's rather far from designer brands.) It's simply a case of mismatching. Students wouldn't know it until they are distracted during a lecture. (If not their professor, then that break from assignments.) Whether you're a high school student in your final year or an incoming freshman, then this post should give your helpful tips on a college application.
Think about your location, priorities, career plan, money, and motives.
5 Important Things to Consider When Choosing a College
Are you a homebody? If you can't be far away from home, then you choose a college that is near your place. There are many advantages. (A dormitory might be costly, if not a distraction while you're trying to focus on your coursework. Your home, which is a familiar place, can motivate you to study harder. Your family can inspire you. This setup will prepare you for THAT life after college, where necessity will teach you to endure any unpleasantness during commuting.) Keep in mind that this wouldn't be your sole reason for choosing a college, as it might not have best resources for your selected field. If this will be a case, then don't frown on the possibility that you'll be far and away (from your folks).
Are you willing to prioritize it? This is not supposed to be a question, as college students are old enough to be responsible adults. Then again, there are many (college) students who have wasted their parents' money after being admitted to an elite school. The scenario won't be totally different in a small, regional universities, but there should be students who will walk the extra mile. If you're insistent about applying for a place in schools like Brown, then you must be willing to sacrifice some things. (There will be instances when you must finish your assignment ahead of the deadline or risk it in favor of a party.) It shouldn't take you long on this one.
Are you serious about your future? If you're thinking about a career in Wall Street, then look at the list of blue-chip universities. These firms want the cream of the crop, which doesn't suggest that you shouldn't consider public colleges and the ones that don't ring a bell to many Americans. It would be unwise to put all eggs in one basket. Moreover, there will be tens of thousands of applicants for these prestigious schools. You should have an outstanding scholastic record. You must have described your leadership skills, if not traits that reveal your potential, in your CV. It also helps if you would opt for a gap year (and have used it well). On the other hand, you have a good chance if you're coming from a university other than the Ivy League. If you have been a serious student, with an exemplary record, then you should go for it.
Can you pay for your college education? Let's not talk about financial security, as your folks are likely to pay for your studies. You must apply for a scholarship if they can't afford all of it. Consider yourself lucky if there are corporate scholarships. (If you can get one, then you won't worry about looking for your first job after graduation.) College debt is a reality for many students, and you should think about it carefully. You don't want to put yourself in a position of financial gloom, which could zap off your enthusiasm that is seen among yuppies. If you can't be a thrifty student, then think about a college not far from home.
Do you really want to go there? You must have a reason for wanting to attend a particular college. If you don't have one, then you must ponder about it at this very moment. Your personal statement might confuse the admissions tutor. You may not get away with fibbing.
What Message Do You Want to Send to Admissions Tutors?
Forget about applying for prestige, even a possibility of a love life. (It will happen in the right place at the right time.) A college education is probably the most important phase of your life. It will come with a hefty price tag, though.
If you have learned anything from high school, then you should know that there's no substitute for hard work. And it will reflect in your records. Many teenagers are unaware of their capabilities and limitations. This should be a good time to figure it out. (April is that time of the year when college applicants will find out if they are accepted, rejected or waitlisted. Better start it early.)
An undergraduate degree can take you far, but you can't rely on it. The rest will be up to you. There will be more challenges, but you should be pretty confident about your chances. Your college experience is your best teacher.
