Top 5 college discernment mistakes

Choosing where to attend college is often the first big decision of a young person’s life. The time commitment and cost of attending a four-year undergraduate school are substantial, so it is not a decision to be made lightly. Here are 5 college discernment mistakes to look out for as you navigate this big life decision.

Mistake: Thinking that the college tour = all of campus life

A campus visit is essential for understanding the school culture and getting your real questions answered. Unfortunately, a campus tour alone is rarely sufficient for understanding what it would be like to attend that institution. Campus tours highlight the best and brightest areas of campus, but can lead to an incomplete sense of student life. 

That brand-new dorm may be attractive, but did you see the older, less flashy dorm that you’d likely live in during freshman year? The dining hall might be pulling out all the stops for Open House weekend, but will their typical hours fit your lifestyle? Make sure your college visit gives you a real perspective on campus life by making the most out of your visit (check out Zeale Lifestyle’s tips here). When it comes to making a decision about which college to attend, it is imperative that you have enough information to compare real school experiences and not just the flashiest highlights from a tour.

Mistake: Letting your ego make the decision

College admissions know they are in the field of sales. Those direct mail postcards you are flooded with have little to no bearing on whether or not that college is a good fit for you. If you’ve taken a standardized test, chances are your score range, demographic info, and intended major have been sold to colleges that are now spamming you with flyers and magazines. The language of this direct mail can be very flattering and personable. Perhaps they are inviting you to apply early to a special direct admit application, or hoping to see you at their upcoming open house, or even inviting you to a scholarship competition. 

Many of these opportunities may still be worth exploring, but do not be swayed by these tactics when it comes to making a decision. Just because this school mailed you a T-shirt does not mean you owe them your enrollment. And getting to know the friendly admissions officer does not mean that you are the ideal student for their school. Do not take the research portion of your college search too personally. Gather information that you can later use to discern all the aspects that can make the college a good fit for you! Keep your ego in check, and keep the decision in context. While it is a big decision, it is not irreversible; you can always transfer.

Mistake: Missing the ‘out of the box’ research methods

Finding enough details about the student experience at a given college can make a world of difference in whether or not you think you could thrive there. Admissions officers are an excellent resource for facts about the schools as you begin your search, but when it comes down to gathering the real facts and committing to enrolling, you will need to hear the inside scoop about campus life. 

Hopefully, you were able to speak with current students when you visited campus, but once you are back home, be sure to follow the college on social media. What does engagement look like on their posts? Are there prospective student groups you can join? Are there highlights from events on their YouTube channel? What about interviews with students? What events do they have going on on campus right now, and is that how you would like to spend your weekend? Where are last year’s alumni, and what is their perspective on their alma mater? Put on your sleuthing cap and see what intel you can find from unexpected sources!

Mistake: Comparing sticker prices rather than net cost

Only once you have received your financial package from the school, as well as your FAFSA results, will you be able to accurately consider the various costs of the schools. Institutional scholarships are typically made in your acceptance letter and are often the largest slice of your financial aid pie. 

Start an Excel file of each school’s tuition, room and board, fees, and your anticipated travel expense (especially if it is out of state and requires multiple plane tickets each year). As your financial aid offers roll in, add them into the file to keep running tabs on how different schools’ costs are compared. If your top choice does not end up being the most affordable, you may be able to appeal for additional merit or need-based aid, but you’ll want to be able to quote the dollar amount you are requesting. The school with the lowest tuition sticker price is not necessarily your most affordable option!

Mistake: Forgetting to pray about it

While it is prudent to do one’s due diligence comparing facts and figures, the biggest question when discerning a college is, “What is God asking of me?” Resist the temptation to shrink your college search into self-centered naval-gazing. Keep perspective by asking yourself questions like, “How would studying in this field allow me to bring glory to God?” or “Would this be an environment where I could use my spiritual gifts and God-given talents?” 

If you can, pray on each campus during your visit. Visit the chapel or church you would be attending as a student. Set aside quiet time in prayer to surrender your dreams to the All-Knowing Father. Many young adults can fall into the modern trap that success is about defining their identity in a self-serving journey to “follow your heart.” Instead, lean into the Sacred Heart and His perfect plan for your life. You may not have a clear, black-and-white answer, but look for the decision that gives you abiding peace.