Hey guys! As a junior starting my college search, I could really use some tips on how to research universities effectively, beyond just looking at rankings. Any advice or personal experiences would be great. Thanks!
Hey there! It's great that you're starting your college search early. Researching universities beyond rankings is a smart move, as there are many factors that contribute to the right college fit for you.
One of the first things to focus on is understanding your priorities. Make a list of what's most important to you (size of the campus, location, specific academic programs, extracurriculars, financial aid, campus culture, etc.). Once you have a rough list, you can start your search based on those criteria.
Make use of resources such as CollegeVine, College Board's BigFuture Tool, and each college's website for information. Don't be shy about reaching out to admissions offices, faculty, and current students to get more insight. They'll be happy to help and give you perspective.
Lastly, visit (physically or virtually) as many campuses as you can to get a real sense of the environment and atmosphere there. College fairs and open houses are additional great opportunities to gather information and ask questions.
Good luck with your search! Keep an open mind and enjoy the process.
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