Choosing a college is a big decision, possibly the biggest decision you will make at that point in your life. The process can be unnerving at times. But others have done it and you can too.

Here are a few things to keep in mind. Refer to this list often as you go through your selection process. It will help you to find the college that is right for YOU!

• The reason for going to college is to get an education, not merely a degree.
• The test for finding the right college should not be how selective the school may be but how suitable.
• There are many good colleges (including some you’ve probably never heard of) to which you can be admitted.
• Finding the right college is worth the effort. Take the time to do it right.
• Colleges care as much about finding the right students as much as students care about finding the right college.
• Start early but not TOO early. The beginning of your junior year is early enough.
• Pay attention to deadlines.
• Visit before you decide.
• You CAN afford to go there. The financial aid office will show you how.
• Mom and Dad can help, but the final decision should be yours.

A final word

Knowing you have something to give the world is all that you need to have a great college experience. Learn what you want to do in life and how. Hundreds of great schools are ready to help you. Your actions will give luster to whatever college you have chosen, and perhaps someday that school will be the one everyone is talking about, without anyone noticing that it was people like you who make it that way.