College

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Hopeless to Harvard is the main online site bringing you information designed to help you get into an Ivy League school. However, there are other issues around being accepted to an Ivy League school that are of great importance to high school students.

Of course, each Ivy League school is different. Yale and Brown are distinctively different schools. However, it is important to realize that, beyond Ivy League schools, there is a world of other colleges to choose from.

Consider these main points when selecting the right college for you:

1. Consider the size of the student body because this affects a lot of things, among them are faculty-student ratio and student culture. A large school is like a large city – there’s a lot to do, and it’s easy to get swept away. Conversely, a small school has all the advantages and disadvantages of a small town. It’s nice that everyone knows you, and you are in a safe atmosphere, but you may find your opportunities limited. Additionally, there is not usually a lot of diversity in a small school.

#2 A very important factor is school prestige. There is really no getting around this. If you have a degree from UPenn, Stanford or Harvard, you will have a better chance of getting a high-paying respected position.

3. Location is important. Do you want to go to school in a big city, small town, or in the countryside? A big-city school like NYU or UCLA will be quite different from a low key, off-the-beaten-path school like Cornell or Williams. You will want to keep your personality and background in mind and choose a school where you will be most comfortable.

Fourth, determine whether your school choice leaves room for growth. This applies to a number of things; however, most important is whether or not the school will challenge you and leave you room to challenge yourself. The four years you are in school are the time for you to maximize your academic potential. You want to be in an environment that will allow you to take risks, encounter a diverse and broad set of experiences, and learn to stand on your own two feet. So, if you have been in Austin, for example, all your life, going to UT-Austin might not be the most broadening experience for you. Your college years give you an opportunity for challenge and self discovery. Take full advantage of it.

Be sure to visit all of the colleges you are considering. When it is time to make your final choice, the first hand experience you gain on these visits will be invaluable to you. If you are feeling very pressured and having a hard time deciding, a gap-year may be beneficial to you. It can help you gain some perspective and make a wiser choice.

Click here for more advice on how to pick a college.