How to Help Your College Student Select the Best College with Two Choices Left
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions in a student’s life. As a parent, guardian, or advisor, you’re likely involved in this decision-making process, especially when there are just two choices left. With the pressure mounting, it can be difficult to know how best to support your college student through this final decision. In this blog, we’ll outline some practical steps you can take to help them make a well-informed, confident choice.
1. Encourage Self-Reflection
Start by encouraging your student to reflect on their personal goals and values. What do they truly want out of their college experience? Ask open-ended questions to help them think about:
A well-rounded understanding of what truly matters to them will give them a clearer picture of what college will be the best fit.
2. Review the Academic Strengths of Each College
Once your student has thought about their personal goals, it’s time to look into each college’s academic offerings. Review the two schools in detail and compare aspects such as:
Helping your student focus on the long-term benefits of each college’s academic strengths can play a huge role in narrowing down the decision.
3. Consider Financial Factors
The cost of attending college is an important part of the decision. Here’s how you can help your student analyze the financial aspects:
Having a clear financial picture is essential to avoid making a choice that could result in financial strain later.
4. Campus Visits (Admitted Student Visits)
If it’s feasible, try to visit both campuses again to give your student a more concrete sense of what it would be like to attend each college. This can help clarify feelings and offer a first-hand perspective. Campus offers admitted student visits which are much more detailed and customized to the student’s major. Pay attention to details like:
Sometimes it’s the little details that can help sway a decision.
5. Talk to Current Students and Alumni
One of the best ways to get an authentic view of each college is to speak with current students or alumni. Encourage your student to reach out to people they know who are currently attending or have graduated from either of the colleges.
Talking to people who have experienced the school firsthand can provide valuable insights that may not be available on the website or in brochures.
6. Assess the Support System
A good support system can make all the difference in a college experience. Explore the resources offered at each college, such as:
The right support can help a student feel comfortable and successful at school, especially in their first year when the transition can be tough.
7. Make a Pro-Con List
Help your student create a pro-con list for each college. This can help visualize which school stands out in different categories—academically, socially, financially, and personally. You may be surprised how much more clear the decision becomes once the pros and cons are laid out side by side.
8. Trust Their Gut
Ultimately, your student needs to trust their instincts. Encourage them to listen to their gut feeling about each school. While data and analysis are critical, how they feel about the campus, the people, and the opportunities should not be overlooked.
If your student is still feeling uncertain after all of this research, suggest taking some time to sleep on it and revisit the options in a few days. Sometimes, decisions become clearer when given a little space and time.
9. Support Their Final Decision
Once your student has made their choice, offer your full support, whether it’s the first school or the second. Trust that they’ve taken the time to weigh their options and are ready for this next chapter in their life.
Conclusion
Helping your college student make their final college decision can feel overwhelming, but by focusing on their priorities, academic goals, financial concerns, and emotional well-being, you can guide them toward a choice they’ll be happy with. At the end of the day, the best college for them is the one where they can thrive academically, socially, and personally. Your support throughout the process will ensure they make an informed and confident choice, setting them up for success in their college journey and beyond.
If your teen would benefit from some additional guidance as they make this transition to college, please reach out to Dr. Steven Lazarus, a psychologist who specializes in high school and college transitions.
