Myths About the College Selection Process

Learning about colleges is an arduous task, one to which many students simply do not allocate sufficient time and thought. The beginning of the college selection process is also fraught with many myths and misconceptions. The most common myths are:

MYTH #1: THERE IS ONE PERFECT COLLEGE FOR ME

Understanding that there is no one perfect college for you but several good alternatives will make the application process more exciting. If you narrow your sights to only one college, you may spend too much time worrying about getting into that particular school. This will prevent you from making a systematic search for a variety of institutions where you would be happy.

MYTH #2: I NEED TO DECIDE ON A CAREER BEFORE I CHOOSE A COLLEGE

The average college student changes majors two or three times in the course of four years of college, and most college graduates change careers three to five times in their lifetime.

MYTH #3: WE CAN ONLY AFFORD A LOW-PRICED COLLEGE

Do not let initial costs alone determine your future. Too often students rule out some colleges because the total cost appears to be more than the family can afford. This may not be the case when all resources of financial aid are explored. Private colleges, in order to attract students from all income levels, offer significant amounts of financial aid and, in the long run, may be more affordable than a less expensive public institution.

MYTH #4: MOST STUDENTS GET REJECTED BY THE COLLEGE OF THEIR CHOICE

Not so! Over 92% of all students go to their first or second choice college. Searching for a variety of colleges where your needs can be met and ensuring that the colleges to which you apply include different levels of selectivity can increase your chances for acceptance and, ultimately, your happiness.

MYTH #5: INVESTIGATING COLLEGES IS AN UNPLEASANT CHORE

Looking at colleges should be part of an exciting search for your future. It is wise to approach the admissions process with optimism and excitement for two reasons; it will make the process more interesting, and your enthusiasm will show in your application essays. Some components of the research process can be fun as well, such as the campus visit. The selection and application process is also a time for self-discovery that may prove to be more beneficial than selection of a particular college.

MYTH #6: I'VE NEVER HEARD OF THIS COLLEGE, SO IT CAN'T BE ANY GOOD

Most people know very little about colleges. The average self-educated individual can probably name only 100 of the 3,000 plus colleges and these tend to be the older Eastern colleges, the large state universities, those with outstanding athletic teams and those that happen to be near their home. It is important to remember that a college, which might be a good match for you, may be one which is unknown to you now. Some of the schools you have heard the most about may prove not to be a good match for you. Try to keep an open mind throughout the entire process.

COMMON MISTAKES

BEING PASSIVE:

Letting the choice just happen instead of taking charge of the process.
Following the lead of your friends.
Taking any suggestion that comes to you without studying it.
Letting someone else decide for you.
Applying to many colleges indiscriminately so you can postpone thinking about which one to attend.

PLEASING OTHERS:

Applying to colleges you aren't really interested in just to please someone else or impress them with where you were accepted.

LOSING SIGHT OF YOUR MAIN REASON FOR GOING TO COLLEGE:

Take some time to examine both your head and your heart. Think about who you are, what you like and don't like. Then set out to find the right match!