Tips on Making a Financial Decision Here are some things to think about as you make your final decision: IS THIS COLLEGE REALLY ME?
MONEY, MONEY, MONEY
You chose to apply to these schools in the first place, and they all have positive attributes. As you narrow your options, try these methods:
Unfortunately, sometimes these tough decisions come down to money. Carefully review all financial aid and scholarship offers to understand total costs.
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Apply the first adjective that comes to mind to each school that you’re considering. Is it safe? Risky? Exciting? Challenging? After assigning some adjectives to each school, which feels best to you?
Taking out some student loans to help pay for school is a good thing to help you establish credit and take ownership of your college experience. The average college graduate has about $30,000 worth of debt; any more than that is too much.
• Next, ask yourself, “Is this college really for me?” Imagine being in a place with people who positively reinforce who you are. Is Is
really me? really me?
In most circumstances, your parents are probably going to be paying for your college expenses, or at least supporting you financially. Even though this is your choice to make, your parents know you well and want what is best for you. Listen to them—they are wise!
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
PROS AND CONS LISTS
Make sure that you are making the right choice for you, not the choice that others expect you to make.
Using the College Comparison Worksheet on the following page, quantify the positive and negative elements for each of the schools you are considering:
A name-brand college isn’t always best. Choose the college that fits you and where you will grow the most. Don’t go to a school because your best friend is going there, too. Try something new and different. Research shows that complex decisions are best made by staying informed and then not thinking about it. By distracting yourself with other thoughts, you allow your subconscious mind to get involved. Often, your subconscious mind does a better job making decisions than your conscious mind.
46 COLLEGE COUNSELING AT UNIVERSITY PREP 2021–2022
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Academics
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Size
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Location
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Cost
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Facilities
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Activities
Assign a maximum point value for each element, depending on how important it is to you.
