The key to selecting the right college for you is understanding yourself and your educational goals.

Throughout high school, students need to engage in self-reflection, develop their interests and talents, and think about what they want for their future.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing a college:

• Size

• Location

• Student-to-Faculty Ratio / Class Sizes

• Campus Organizations / Greek Life

• Graduation Rates

• Student Profile

• Programs of Study (Majors and Minors)

• Career Preparation Opportunities

• Admissions Requirements (Selectivity)

• Cost & Financial Aid

• Campus Environment (You must visit!)

• Anything else that is important to you, personally 

Students should develop a college "wish list" based on these characteristics. This list can then be used to search for and decide on colleges that will be a good fit.

Understand that you do not need to know what career you want or what you will major in before applying to college. If there is a particular major you want, then add it to your "wish list." If not, it is perfectly normal to decide on a major while you are in college.

When it comes time to make your final college selection as a senior, match each school up to your "wish list," look back at notes from your campus visits, and discuss your options with parents and your school counselor.

You posses all the tools and self-knowledge necessary to decide which college is right for you.