Hey, 2011 graduate, jump start the college search

Here’s the good news: If you want to go to college, there are schools out there-yes, more than one!-that are right for you. Here’s the not-as-good news: It takes some work to find those schools among the thousands of possibilities. So where do you start? Right here, with these simple (but important) resources.

You. Yes, you. Finding a college is about knowing yourself, so start by thinking about what you like and dislike: academic subjects, types of social situations, sports and other extracurricular activities. Then think about what’s important to you: sports, politics, campus life, access to professors, financial aid, proximity to home, academic support services-you get the picture.

It sounds awkward, but it’s a good idea to write down your preferences-as a journal entry or a simple list. When you start visiting campuses, it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of college life and forget your top priorities. You can change your list as you move through this process, but writing is a good way to inspire a little introspection.

The web. Spend some time using free search engines to build your list of potential schools. The U.S. Department of Education offers the College Navigator at nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator, where you can compare schools side by side and build a list of favorites. The College MatchMaker from the College Board (at collegesearch.collegeboard.com/search/index.jsp) will generate a list based on your preferences, as will the Counselor-o-Matic at princetonreview.com/com.aspx. It’s a good idea to do several searches at each site because they calculate “fit” a bit differently, and your goal right now is just to build a long list of possible schools. Here’s a tip: You want your list to include schools in three categories: “reach” schools, where admitted students’ academic credentials are a bit more impressive than yours; “match” schools, where your credentials are similar to those of the average admitted student; and “safety” schools, where your credentials exceed the average student.

Your parents or other relatives. You’ve probably lived with these people since, well, the minute you were born, so they know you as well as anyone. Talk about your preferences with them. Ask them about their own college experiences. And have a candid conversation about what’s financially feasible for your family-but remember that few families pay any school’s published sticker price.

Your high school. Your school is full of people who can help you start your search. Set up an appointment with your guidance counselor, and ask her about aptitude tests, college brochures, and when college admission counselors will be visiting. Then talk to a few of your favorite teachers about your list of possible schools. Are there any you’re overlooking? Do they know about any special programs at colleges that would suit your interests and skill set? They might even be able to put you in touch with former students who are now college kids and would be willing to email you about their experiences.

The library or bookstore. Don’t get overwhelmed when you see how many books have been written about college. Pick a few basic introductory guides, such as the Fiske Guide to Colleges or Four-Year Colleges, and thumb through them. Look for schools that meet some basic criteria: academic areas that interest you, proximity to home, and one or two other important factors, such as extracurricular programs, foreign study programs, and internships.

Nearby colleges. Even if the thought of attending school close to home freaks you out, visit a few nearby colleges. They’ll give you a feel for college life and help you determine what you want from a school.

Remember, there’s no perfect way to launch a college search. You just have to jump in somewhere, so choose the place that feels right to you. Before you know it, you’ll have a list of excellent possibilities-and you’ll be well on your way to finding the right school for you.

Avoid These Search Mistakes

Relying on your best friend to conduct your search. Sounds hokey, but finding the right college is a personal journey. Don’t let someone else take control.
Forgoing your dreams for your parents’ expectations. Just because your mom or dad is a graduate of Big Name U doesn’t mean you have to be. Now’s the time to talk about your own goals and passions-and to ask your parents for support.
Only looking at one type of school. You might think you want to go to a tiny private school or an artsy college in a hip urban neighborhood, but give yourself a chance to visit different campuses before you commit to one type.