What's the most frustrating part of the college search process?

Hey there! I'm just starting my college application process and I'd like to know, based on your experiences, what part of the college search process did you find the most frustrating or challenging?

In my observation, one of the most challenging aspects of the college search process for many students is coming down to a finalized list of schools to apply to. The reason is two-fold. Firstly, there are hundreds of schools out there, each with their own unique characteristics, strengths, weaknesses, and cultures. It can be a daunting task to narrow down the list, especially when you're considering factors such as size, location, specific departments and programs, potential financial aid, and the overall vibe of the campus.

Secondly, it can be challenging to strike a balance in the list that includes a mix of reach, match, and safety schools that a student would genuinely be happy attending. It's a matter of keeping an open mind to good fits beyond the brand-name schools and finding a balance between ambition and practicality.

Finally, staying in tune with the somewhat frequent changes in college admissions criteria can also be a hurdle. You will need to keep up with the evolving policies on standardized testing, the shift towards holistic admissions, and the importance of extracurricular activities, to name a few.

However, don't be discouraged! This is all a normal part of the process, and while frustrating, it can also be quite enlightening as you learn more about yourself and what you're looking for from a college experience. Good luck!

Remember: finding resources to guide you, like CollegeVine, and reaching out to your guidance counselor, can make the process less overwhelming. Don't hesitate to leverage them!