Many families start feeling anxious about the college search process as their children enter high school. This pressure likely intensifies during the 10th grade year—but it is also the perfect time to develop a plan!
Setting a solid foundation for the college application process will ease the stress of this otherwise tumultuous time, make some decisions easier, and help your family focus on the factors that matter most. Read on to learn our top tips about the college search process.
Tip #1: Discuss the costs
One of the most important conversations for families when beginning the search process is about how they will pay for college. Parents often think about schools’ reputations and selectivity before adding the cost into the equation. Unlike when we buy a house or a car where price is typically the first consideration, families and students do not initially consider the cost of college when deciding where to apply.
Understanding the differences between public and private institutions, as well as the types of financial aid available (such as need-based aid and merit aid), is essential. You can learn more by attending financial aid information sessions at your student’s high school (remember to have a list of questions prepared!).
Initiating these discussions early on can help families make informed decisions about college choices and financial planning, ensuring a smoother transition into the application process. Read our article, Financial Aid Advice by Grade, as a start.
Tip #2: Find the “right fit”
While there may not be a specific moment that gives you goosebumps, it is still incredibly important to find your “right fit.” What schools have programs, majors, and activities that excite you? What are your biggest dealbreakers? Where will you be happiest?
Start by doing a deep dive into what you actually want from your college years, using the College Compass Toolkit’s Wants and Needs chart as a guideline. Take everything into consideration—college size, potential majors, location, climate, urban vs. rural, extracurricular activities, and more. This also helps set realistic expectations about what is possible for your family.
Having an honest and thorough conversation on what the right college looks like will help your teen develop a personalized plan for a positive university experience.
Tip #3: Map out your academic journey
At the end of the day, you are going to college so that you can come out on the other side with a degree, so take your academic history and goals into account early. This is the perfect time to plan out your classes for your junior and senior year! Start by considering the following:
- What are your academic strengths?
- What are your academic interests? This refers to what you most enjoy learning about, not necessarily what you get the best grades in.
- What are your high school’s credit and course requirements?
- What classes can you take to further your academic record?
Use the College Compass Toolkit’s High School Planner to stay organized throughout the process!
Tip #4: Consider your passions
How you spend your time reveals a lot about who you are and what you value. What brings you joy and matters to you? If you are not doing so already, consider getting involved in activities beyond the classroom—don’t be afraid to put yourself out there! This may look like:
- Working at an animal shelter
- Being a tutor
- Coaching a youth sports’ team
- Volunteering at a food bank
- Taking a summer internship in a field of interest
- Engaging in your favorite art form (music, visual art, dance, etc.)
- Pursuing your athletic interests
Explore areas of interest, stay open to exciting discoveries, and actively pursue opportunities to learn new skills while making positive contributions to the various communities you belong to. Check out our webinar, Planning for Summer, for tips on making the most of your summer vacation.
Tip #5: Schedule a meeting with us!
It never hurts to get a little bit of help! College Compass has a host of resources for every step of the college planning process, whether you are a student or a parent. Sophomores are welcome to schedule an individual virtual advising meeting with a College Compass advisor, which provides tips tailored to your specific needs.
We also invite you to take a deeper dive into our upcoming events, past event recordings, and articles ranging from “How to Ask for a Teacher Recommendation” to “UVA Lingo.” And of course, do not hesitate to download our College Compass Toolkit to keep everything organized as you continue to plan for college.