Choose the Right College: Get to Know Yourself

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Interest Groups
You want to apply to colleges that offer great classes and majors in the areas that interest you. For example, if you can't go a day without statistics, then you probably need to look at some schools with great statistics departments.

Think about the following:

• What academic subjects interest you?
• What types of things do you like to study?
• What are some of your favorite classes?

In addition to your academic interests, think about other things you enjoy doing--after all, you'll only be spending part of your time studying.

• What extracurricular activities are you involved in?
• Is it important for you to continue with any of them in college?
• What things do you like to do outside of school?

Try not to limit yourself too much. It's a good idea to choose a college that satisfies your current interests, but know that some of them will probably change. There are a lot of subjects and activities you haven't encountered yet and that may grab your attention once you get to college.

Some people go into their freshman year convinced they are going to study one thing for the next four years, and then that's what they're going to do for the rest of their lives. Most people don't stick with that.

(Your) Personality Matters
Honest self-reflection about who you are and what you like is more likely to lead you to a school where you feel comfortable being yourself and supported in what you're trying to achieve. If you can find this, you'll feel happier in your surroundings and you'll be more likely to perform well academically. Party schools are only fun if you love to party, and conservative college environments will drive you nuts if you're more of an off-the-cuff kind of person.

Be honest about what you're like and don't feel like you have to be a certain way. Consider the following:

• How do you socialize--do you like small groups, one-on-one interactions, or large crowds?
• Do you like to be around people or do you need a lot of time to yourself?
• Are you the life of the party or more shy and reserved?
• Do you like to be close to your family or is being farther away healthier for you?
• Do you love big, bustling cities? Or do you start to suffocate unless you're being one with nature?