Road Trippin With Rachael

So…I work in admissions. Specifically, I’m a Director of Admissions at a small, Christian liberal arts university. One of the things I like the most about working with students is the very practical side of decision making. I invite parents into the conversation, but I really want to work with the students to help them be actively involved in their decision making. During the time I’ve been in my role (both as a director and counselor) there are few things I’ve learned that can help make the college search process easier.

ONE: Have a conversation between the parents and student. What mom and dad may be thinking might not be what the student is thinking about career and college. Remember that a CONVERSATION means all parties are discussing and listening to the others.

TWO: Students, make a list of the things that you want in your college experience, and a list of what you don’t want. Here is an example: the institution I work for does not have Greek life. There will be no Rush, no frat parties, and there aren’t frat or sorority houses. If that is something you really want you won’t be looking at my institution. Here are some examples of things to consider:

• Big school or small school?
• How far away from home?
• Do I want Greek life?
• Public school or private?
• City or country?
• Christian?

THREE: Student, ask yourself what you are interested in. Not what you want to do for a career, but you enjoy. Although you may not be able to major in it, you may be able to find a way to do it on the side or find some way to use it to supplement your career. Besides there’s this little think called a minor; lots of students will major in something that makes money and minor in something they are passionate about.

FOUR: Students, don’t be afraid to change your major. Parents, don’t push your student to know what they are going to do. They are 17-18. Its okay for them to not know what career they’ll retire from. In fact, I encourage students to be undecided. It eases the pressure to know what they are going to do, and if they are at a liberal arts school, they’ll be introduced to all the major fields of study, and they’ll figure it out. Or they will figure out how to make their passions make them money.

FIVE: Talk about finances. Do not hide reality from your student. Parents, be upfront with your student about how much help you will be able to give them. If they will only get help with books because that is what you can afford, tell them that. Don’t let your student set their heart on a school they have no hope of affording. Encourage them to apply for scholarships – both national and local – because at many institutions, they will take whatever you can bring in, and will only help bring the bill down. Your student will be considered an adult. Let them be an adult and help them manage their financial expecations.

SIX: Narrow your options, and visit. Most of the time, students are going to know when they walk on a campus if it is the place for them. Plan these visits out so you can see the school, check out the area, and see what there is to do. I would also suggest that you come prepared with a list of questions. Here is a list of questions I think parents should be asking:

• What is the housing situation? Is is Co-Ed?
• How does your school’s Financial Aid work?
• What activities are there for students?
• What’s the crime rate and how is security on campus?
• What’s the graduation rate?
• How many students are at the school?
• Are there good churches in the area?
• What about dual credit classes?

Is this a complete list of suggestions? Of course not! I could on about the college process and what can make the whole thing go smoother. But, that would be a long article and would overwhelm most people. Hopefully, this will help you, Student, or you, Parent, start thinking about the college process and practically approach the college search journey.