6 Steps To Craft Your Perfect College List

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With the everchanging landscape of college admissions, it’s more important than ever to align your values and goals with the right institutions. Here's a simplified guide to help you create a winning college list.

Step 1: Define Your College Criteria

Start with what matters most to you. Is it location, size, academics, extracurriculars, or campus culture? Know your preferences to narrow down your options.

Pro Tip: Make a list of your needs and rank them. For example:

1. Long distance from current home
2. Friends from high school will be there
3. Internship opportunities in my future career
4. Politically engaged student body
5. Near nature, lots of outdoor activities
6. Affordable
7. Attractive program in my desired major
8. School with high “name brand” recognition, prestigious
9. Good sorority/fraternity scene
10. Beautiful environment
11. Cool college town, lots of off-campus opportunities
12. Strong study abroad program
13. Strong religious affiliation/spiritual opportunities
14. Strong alumni network
15. Chance to play collegiate sports
16. Diverse student body
17. Can drive home easily

Rank each item on a scale of 1 to 4: 1 = Non-negotiable 2 = Important 3 = Semi-important 4 = Unimportant

This helps you focus on colleges that truly fit your needs. Remember, you’re the boss of your experience!

Step 2: Research College Cultures and Values

Dig into the culture and values of each college. Check out their mission statements and student newspapers for a feel of what they stand for. For example, Carnegie Mellon University's Tepper School of Business emphasizes critical thinking and leadership. Their mission statement reads: "To create value for business and society by providing intellectual leadership, advancing the science and practice of management, and developing ethical leaders to be the agents of change in a world driven by technology and innovation.” Their motto, "My heart is in the work," suggests a deep commitment to integrating passion with profession. Does this resonate with your values and how you see your future?

To get a more candid perspective, read the student newspaper. A Stanford student might describe the entrepreneurial spirit on campus, while a Swarthmore student might highlight the collaborative and socially conscious atmosphere.

Step 3: Investigate Strategic Goals

Understanding a college's strategic goals can give you a sneak peek into what they prioritize. Look at their strategic plans to see if their direction aligns with your interests. For instance, if Stanford University emphasizes sustainability and interdisciplinary research, and you're passionate about environmental science, that's a great match! Conversely, the University of Chicago's focus on rigorous intellectual inquiry and civic engagement might appeal to those who value deep academic exploration and community involvement.

By aligning your goals with a school's strategic direction, you can enhance your application and choose a place where you can thrive.

Step 4: Explore Academic Offerings and Structures

When choosing a major, look into the academic programs and structures of each college. For example, Brown University offers an open curriculum, allowing students the flexibility to design their own educational paths without mandatory general education requirements. This approach is ideal for self-directed students eager to explore diverse academic fields. On the other hand, Columbia University’s Core Curriculum ensures that all students, regardless of major, receive a broad-based education in the liberal arts, appealing to those who value a structured and comprehensive academic foundation.

Check specific departmental websites for detailed information about faculty, ongoing research projects, and student involvement in research. These resources will give you a clearer picture of the academic environment and opportunities available in your chosen field.

Step 5: Follow the Money

Check where colleges are investing their resources. Significant donations and funding priorities often signal the programs they’re focusing on. For example, if you're interested in studying music business, Belmont University should be on your radar. In April 2024, the school received a $58 million donation from a music executive to expand its programs. Such significant funding can lead to better facilities, more research opportunities, and potentially more seats and scholarships for students in those programs.

To research your favorite colleges, use resources like The Chronicle of Philanthropy to see where significant donations have been made. If your intended program has recently received a large donation, it could mean enhanced resources and opportunities for you.

Step 6: Build Connections

Networking is key! Connect with alumni, current students, professors, and administrators. Attend college fairs, visit campuses, and engage with the community. These interactions provide valuable insights and help you decide if a college is the right fit. For example, alumni networks, campus visits, and informational interviews can provide invaluable insights.

Reach out to alumni through LinkedIn or your high school's alumni network. Engage with current students and faculty during campus visits to get a sense of the campus atmosphere and academic environment. Remember to send thank-you notes and follow-up messages after every interaction.

Remember, it’s not about finding the “best” college, but the best college for you. Your college journey is about shaping your future, so make sure it aligns with who you are and who you want to become.

As always, our goal is to empower your family to make informed decisions that best serve your student's future. Stay tuned for more insights and strategies by hitting the “Subscribe” button. For personalized guidance, explore Ivy Insight for tailored support on your college admissions journey and Cognitive Command for Executive Function and Social Skills support. And for more tips on embracing your authentic self, check out my book, "Get Real and Get In" at St. Martin's Press.

This newsletter is based on content originally published in Forbes by Dr. Aviva Legatt.