May 1st Deposit Deadline

The annual undergraduate admission deposit deadline is a few days away. Have you made a decision? If not, here are some things to consider.

Fit over brand

Students are choosing higher education institutions for their name, and not neccesarily for the opportunities that are available. Since one university may be more famous or “prestigious” students are more willing to submit a letter of enrollment intention. Although not all students are simply going for the name, this trend in selecting a university is worrisome. An informed choice based on your college criteria is better than selecting a university based on name and exclusivity. Students should research what the specific university has to offer—such as academic programs or social opportunities. It is these things — academic offerings and overall college life — that will shape a young person’s experience in college. The name and reputation of a university can only hold so much. Be smart about picking a university that is well suited for your needs and goals.

Cost and Time

Let's face it, what it costs to attend over four years will play a role in your decision. Keep in mind, though, that your education should be viewed as an investment in your future. It's better to spend the money now and graduate on-time than go somewhere where you'll pay less and not graduate.

Making a decision shouldn't be taken lightly. Remember, this is your life and your decision. Take the next few days and consider your options.

University Advisors

What To Do Now

In the college application world, it’s the awkward in between phase. High school seniors have received their rejection and acceptance letters. Colleges are waiting to hear back from applicants, unsure of how large the incoming freshmen class will be. Yet now is the perfect time for all other high school students (not seniors) to be looking towards the future. It definitely pays off to start the college hunt earlier than later.

April is the beginning of college fair season. High school sophomores and juniors should begin charting out schools they are potentially interested in. Also, students should start talking with their guidance counselor about colleges and the application process. In addition, guidance counselors can offer information about the upcoming college fairs taking place on campus. It is at college fairs where students can connect and meet admission officials from specific universities. College fairs are a valuable tool for students to ask the college representative compelling questions that shows the student’s genuine interest. Leaving a strong impression on the college representative will prove beneficial when applying to a university. Colleges prefer students who have shown true interest in the university, instead of students that haphazardly apply to everything and anything. Do research, utilize the tools around you, and start the college shopping process.

University Advisors

Decision Time

The acceptance letters have been sent out and now, students have the power to choose what university they would like to attend. The roles have been switched and colleges are eagerly anticipating how large the incoming class will be the following year. Students no longer have to sweat it out; instead the colleges need to. Before even submitting a deposit, however, students should make the effort to take a campus tour of their prospective schools. Also, students should examine what the campus has to offer in terms of social organizations, the surrounding environment (i.e. rural, urban setting), and also academic opportunities. In addition, one of the most important items on the list is the financial aspect. Is there financial aid? How much is tuition? What scholarships are offered? Come May 1st, students must submit their final decision to their number one choice and hope that they made the right pick.