Week Ten
May 23, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
See answers from the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I’m so excited for college to just start already! I’m totally the kind of person to overlook a few things when I’m excited, so what are some common mistakes freshman make that I can avoid?” – Jill P., Lafayette, IN
A: Perception v. Reality
Are professors aloof? Administrators that don’t give a whiff about students? Some may argue that this is the state of higher education. I would argue that it is far from the truth. Students are advised to start making connections with assistant professors, academic advisors, and others that form the heart, soul, and body of an institution of higher learning. There are people to help you grow as an individual, but you must also take the initiative to make that connection. Everybody that works for a college or university is a person who contributes significantly in one way or another.
- David Hamilton – Director of College Advising – St. Mary’s Ryken High School
One of the things that often catch freshmen by surprise is how quickly the term passes. The paper that was assigned the first week of class will be due before you know it. Because classes tend to move more quickly than in high school, it’s easy to get behind. So don’t put things off. Seek tutoring right away if you’re struggling. Get your reading done and work on that paper. Take advantage of your professor’s office hours to get additional help or deepen your understanding of the subject. Doing all this will make your freshman year go much more smoothly.
- Julie Manhan— Founder – College Navigation
A: Secrets for freshman year success.
The most important tip for your freshman year is good time management. It is very easy to get behind in your studies with the new freedom and independence of being a college student. The majority of your homework is reading and it may seem inconsequential to skip it for a class. However, if it is not completed as assigned, it becomes impossible to play catch up before an exam. You may want to set up a “study / homework” calendar and prioritize your academic responsibilities. Do not put off for tomorrow the homework that needs to be done today!
- Farron Peatross– Educational Consultant – EduCPlanner.com
Don’t miss answers by the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
Week Nine
May 16, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
See answers from the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I leave for college in a few months, but don’t know what to bring. What should every college student bring with them for academics, social, and dorm life? What does every student kick themselves for forgetting?” – David S., Fresno, CA
A: Bring a little bit of home to your dorm.
I reduced my homesickness, and I just moved a few miles away from home, by decorating my dorm room with some of the things from my room back at home. I also brought a family picture, though some of my friends just brought a picture of the one person they miss most. I recommend bringing your blanket from home so your bed looks and feels like home. It’s light and easy to pack. I also try to call home at least once every two days. I call my mom, so she doesn’t call at bad times.
- Rebecca Joseph – Executive Director and Founder, Get Me To College
If you are moving any distance away to college, you will probably have limited space to take all of your belongings. The solution? Ship easy to pack items like clothing. By shipping you know that the items will be available to you when you arrive on campus and you don’t have to worry how you are going to fit everything into your suitcase. For bulky items like bedding, think about buying those items in stores close to campus so pick them up once you arrive.
- Todd Johnson — Founder – College Admissions Partners
It’s easy to focus on the tangibles one needs when preparing to go off to college: clothes, linens, computer, etc. But the most important thing to bring to college is an open mind, receptivity to new opportunities and people. You’ll never again have an experience like the four undergraduate years ahead, years in which you’ll grow and develop in ways you can’t even imagine right now. Remember to bring motivation, too: the will to push yourself harder than ever before in your academic work, and to commit yourself to meaningful activities that’ll result in a feeling of connection to the campus community.
- Jane Shropshire – Founder – Shropshire Educational Consulting LLC
Week Eight
May 9, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
See answers from the Dean of Admissions at University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan University, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I don’t know what I want to major in yet, can that hurt my application? When do I need to pick a major by and how important is choosing the right major for my career?” – Alex R., Lakewood, NJ
A: Explore Your Major Possibilities
A student was absolutely certain that he wanted to major in biology and be pre-med. His extracurricular activities included working with autistic children, hospital volunteerism and genetic research in a clinic. I spoke with him just weeks after college began and he was in the business school! He found the program and students much more to his liking. Students change majors frequently in college. Yet, you can “test drive” a major now through job shadowing and internships. Also, go to web sites like http://uncw.edu/STUAFF/CAREER/Majors/index.htm, to learn about majors of interest and the potential careers that may emanate from those majors.
- Michael Goran – Director and Educational Consultant, IvySelect College Counseling
After building a music business in high school, Adam applied to colleges with strong music business programs. He got into some, not all, and chose one with a strong music business program. Then freshman year, he changed his mind, and the school didn’t have many other majors he wanted. Now he is a happy history major at another college. Colleges love kids with passions. But if you’re undecided, then view that as your passion. That is your right. College is the time to explore and give yourself the change your mind, your passions, and major. And then sometimes the college.
- Rebecca Joseph – Executive Director and Founder, Get Me To College
My favorite college-major story goes like this: a student I’ll call Nick was convinced he wanted to be a psychology major in college. But after two semesters of Introduction to Psychology, his professor asked him, “What have you learned this year?” Nick’s sheepish, but honest, reply was that he DIDN’T want to be a psych major. And his psych prof said, “That’s a great thing to learn!” If you want to be an engineer or an architect, it’s probably important to know that earlier, and to apply directly to programs that support those goals. If, otherwise, you have no idea what you want to do with the rest of your life, a liberal arts education–taking classes liberally across the curriculum, in as many departments as possible–is the best way to find the major for you.
- Mary Beth Fry – Director of College Counseling, Savannah Country Day School
Week Seven
May 2, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
See answers from the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I just got my financial aid package and don’t know what to make of it. What are some terms I should know, things I should look for, or tips and tricks to maximize my aid?” – Mary S., Boston, MA
A: Be sure you’re comparing apples to apples!
Analyze the award letters carefully, and figure out how much is being offered in grants and scholarships (the money that won’t need to be paid back) and how much represents loans. Don’t count the work-study in your calculations. Know what the total cost of attendance is at each school (not just tuition); also determine whether grants and scholarships are renewable for four years, or only offered to freshmen. Call the financial aid office if the terms of the offer are unclear, and then focus on the bottom line: how much will each college cost you and your parents out-of-pocket?
- Marilyn Morrison – Founder, Morrison Educational Consulting
A: All financial aid packages are not equal. Persistence pays off!
The most affordable college may not be the best school for you. You should make a worksheet with columns and fill in the details from each financial aid package you receive. Consider the cost of attendance and which colleges offer the most federal grants and school scholarships. This is preferable to receiving college loans which need to be repaid. Also check the interest rates for any loans and the repayment policies. If you receive less financial aid from a school you really want to attend, contact them and ask whether they can match an offer from another college.
- Susie Watts – College Consultant, College Direction
Financial Aid awards are based on your EFC (Expected Financial Contribution). It is imperative that you evaluate your financial aid packages from the various schools. It is important to prepare a chart to evaluate the Net Cost of the schools you are considering. Take the school’s Cost of Attendance and subtract free money, including Scholarship/Grants and Need-Based Aid. You will then arrive at your Net Cost which you can compare with the Net Cost of the other schools you are considering. Then you can take into account the parent’s and student’s loans which must be paid back. Remember, you may appeal the decision if you clearly explain your circumstances such as unusual medical bills.
- Rachelle Wolosoff – Founder, CollegeSearchExpert.com
Week Six
April 25, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
See answers from the Dean of Admissions at University of Illinois, VP of The College Board, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I want to help my parents out with my tuition by landing as many scholarships as I can. Where should I start, what do they usually require, and what are some crazy scholarships you know of?” – Aimee N., Baltimore, MD
A: Watch Out For Scholarship Scams
When you search for scholarships, make sure that you are not getting scammed. Rule number one is that legitimate scholarships do not charge you money to apply. Even a nominal amount should raise a red flag. If you aren’t sure a scholarship is reputable, do a little research. If other students had bad experiences with a company, you may find that information online. The Federal Trade Commission also has very helpful information (http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/scholarship/index.shtml).
- Janet Rosier – Independent College Admissions Consultant, Janet Rosier’s Education Resources
A: Practical Advice on “Winning” Scholarships for College
Articles about “winning” scholarships emphasize unusual awards and sources. In fact, most scholarship and grant money is awarded by colleges. External scholarships are those funds awarded from private sources in amounts, which will often augment, but not fully meet your need for assistance. You can find out about external awards using a variety of on-line search engines, but your high school guidance office or local library is often the best place to start. You will find information about local scholarship funds and the odds are much better you will receive a local scholarship than a national award.
- Myra Smith – Executive Director, Financial Aid Services, The College Board
Applying for local or “outside” scholarships (those independent of the college you may attend) can be very time-consuming and often yields little in the way of results. Be very particular about the scholarships you select to submit an application. Determine how many applicants generally apply and how many will be selected. Will the scholarship be for your first year only or is it renewable. Do your circumstances seem to line up with the requirements for the award? Consider all these factors as a substantial outside award may limit your institutional award, which often requires only the submission of the FAFSA.
- Jacqueline Murphy – Director of Admissions, Saint Michael’s College
Focus on scholarships that are a strong match with your experience and interests. If you read the criteria for a scholarship and say to yourself, “That’s me” then apply. To find scholarships visit your guidance counselor, local library and search engines such as scholarships.com. Are you a male over 6’2” or a female over 5’10””? Then apply for the Tall Clubs International Scholarship. Are you a strong writer with an interest in world affairs? The American Foreign Service Association Scholarship may be right for you. Many scholarships relate to your field of study or career aspirations such as the Tylenol Scholarship for medical careers.
- Joan Casey – President, Educational Advocates College Consulting Corp.
An under-represented student who wants to pay for college on your own? Crazy scholarships? Yes, they exist…there are some for kids who love to race cars, raise dogs, or whose parents work for certain companies. Start looking for next year but never pay to apply. Remember, colleges want students like you, so find the colleges that cover all of your needs. That’s crazy for your parents because they don’t need to pay anything. Also apply for scholarships that match your race, culture, legal status, and interests. They do exist. I know kids who have paid for college on their own.
- Rebecca Joseph – Executive Director and Founder, Get Me To College
Week Five
April 18, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
See answers from the Dean of Admissions from University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan, and have your questions answered at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“As a junior looking to stay on top of my college admissions timeline, what are the most important things for me to be doing before senior year starts?” – Andrew S., Renton, WA
A: Congratulations on realizing the importance of an early start!
Begin by looking at several applications and fill in gaps you see in your own life. Study hard. Pursue activities that develop your interests and skills. Decide which teachers will write strong recommendations, and make your requests early. Become familiar with application essay topics and practice writing about your life. Prepare for the SAT or ACT. Plan spring campus visits. Create a separate e-mail account for college communications. Note deadlines, either official or self-imposed, on your calendar and keep it handy. Designate a ‘college corner’ stocked with a file box, folders and other things that keep you organized.
- Joan Bress – Director & Certified Educational Planner, College Resource Associates
A: Narrow your academic, social and financial focus before you apply
Ask yourself two important questions: 1) why do you want to go to college and 2) what type of college will best prepare you? Be honest with yourself and you will apply to schools that are the right ones for you. Once you answer the questions, get applications and start to compile the necessary documents. Schedule campus visits and meet with admissions, financial aid officers and current students. Also, request recommendation letters. Lastly, spend your summer wisely. Internships, volunteering and attending academic summer programs are all good ways to stay sharp while impressing college and scholarship committees. Good luck!
- Kimberly Arias – Director of Programs, Project GRAD
A: Engage in two substantive activities this summer to enhance your college search
High school counselors across the country are meeting with juniors this spring and encouraging them to read guide books, visit college campuses and develop a list of “good fit” colleges. To look beyond the “bumper sticker” schools and find a college that really fits, take time to explore who you are and who you hope to become. Get out of your routine and engage in two substantive activities this summer. These experiences will bring more depth to your college search and applications. Get a job, read a Russian novel a week, learn how to repair a car, or take a class at a nearby college. What excites you?
- Peggy Hock – Educational Consultant, UC Berkeley
A: Get to know the Admission Office at your schools
Did you know that some college admission offices actually keep track of the number of times you are in contact with the school? It is called “expressed interest” and it can be a factor in an admission decision. So, attend college fairs and local college programs and meet the representatives. If your high school has representatives visiting, always stop in to see the college representative and fill out an inquiry card. If you have questions, call the admissions office and of course, visit. Once you apply, keep the dialogue going to make sure that your application is complete.
- Patricia Tamborello – College Counselor, Plymouth Whitemarsh High School
A: A campus without students is like a rock concert without music
First, decide what you want from college, academically and socially, then check graduation rates of schools that meet your criteria. You want to graduate in four years because an extra year costs time and money. Then visit your target colleges while classes are in session. Seeing a campus during the summer is like going to a rock concert while they are setting up the chairs. Ask current students what they do on weekends, how many hours they study, how many papers they write and how big classes are. Large classes mean little discussion; small classes mean no place to hide.
- Larry Dannenberg – Founder, College Solutions
Don’t miss answers by the Dean of Admissions from University of Pennsylvania, Wesleyan, and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
Week Four
April 11, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
To have your questions answered visit www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I’m worried that my financial aid package won’t be sufficient for me and my family to cover my college costs. How can I negotiate with schools to increase my package, and what other sources of aid are available to students, even if they require some more work from me?” – Matthew H., Richmond, VA
Don’t despair! You’re not alone
Contact the financial aid offices at the colleges where you’ve been admitted and tell your story. You will need to document (provide proof of) your parents’ changed circumstances and perhaps write a statement or complete a form. With this information, the colleges will reassess and revise your financial aid award. You should receive more need-based financial aid. Other options: strong students might apply to private liberal arts colleges with strong merit scholarship programs and need based aid. Or consider a low cost local school to keep your borrowing down.
- Ruth Vedvik – Principal, Hardwick Day Inc.
Contact each school’s financial aid office immediately
If you have completed your financial aid applications and your family’s situation changes, it is important that you inform each school’s financial aid office. Colleges want to know your current financial circumstances but it is up to the applicant to keep them informed of any changes. Call each office to ask how they would like you to communicate the information. Typically they will request a detailed letter and documentation of the change.
- Kathryn Favaro – Independent College Admissions Counselor, Favaro College Counseling
Communicate with the aid offices to explain your special circumstances
While you cannot be certain if you will receive additional aid, schools cannot respond to situations they do not know about. Because your family circumstances have changed dramatically your resources will be different. Most aid offices will ask you to put your request in writing and provide as much specific information as possible. Do not wait to contact the aid offices “hoping” things will work out. Hope is not a plan and most institutional aid budgets are limited. The sooner you make schools aware of your situation the more likely it is that you will receive some assistance.
- Jacqueline Murphy – Director of Admissions, Saint Michael’s College
When financial circumstances change, students can ask for a re-evaluation
“Negotiating” financial aid packages rarely works and may annoy the person who could be helpful. Aid is usually governed by set policies. If circumstances have changed, financial aid officers are usually willing to listen and may increase your award. Be sure to provide details and documentation. Even if your circumstances have not changed, you can still ask the financial aid officer for advice about other resources that may be available and work opportunities. This is what they do and they have the most up-to-date information. When weighing borrowing money versus working, remember that loans have to be paid back.
- Marilyn Emerson – Founder, College Planning Services
Do not despair. Many financial aid offices will work with you to consider your family’s change in circumstances. I encourage you to make calls to the financial aid offices at the schools you are considering. Explain your situation and ask the counselors to detail the process for submitting revisions to their institutions. Using the new information you provide, the school may calculate a revised Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Your total financial aid package may then be adjusted based on the new EFC.
- Suzanne Petrusch – VP for Enrollment Management, St. Mary’s University
Week Three
March 25, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.
To have your questions answered visit www.unigo.com/expertnetwork
“I was rejected from my top choice school and waitlisted at my second choice. What do I do? How do I choose amongst my backup schools? I don’t know anything about them!” – Lauren B., Houston, TX
The Dreaded Thin Envelope – Now What?
You have spent months researching schools and telling your story on numerous applications only to be denied your dream choice. What is an 18 year old to do? Take a deep breath and remember that there are schools on your list who do want you; who feel as though you are a good fit for them. Review your criteria of what you are looking for in a school: geography, size, programs, etc. and apply these to the schools to which you have been accepted. It will be a win – win for you and the college you decide to attend.
- Samia Ferraro – Independent College Counselor, College Connection
Focus, research and carefully compare based on what matters most
Send any updated information about grades, activities or leadership to your waitlist school. Make a list of the things that matter most to you (city, small classes, strong athletics, access to art classes, options for research as an undergrad, like-minded people, focus on community). Comb through college websites for answers. Sign up for any revisit days. Compare financial aid packages as part of the equation. Reach out to students who attend these schools and ask questions. Notice the places and people that you are drawn to most. Those “backup” schools were on your original list for a reason.
- Jennifer DesMaisons – Director of College Counseling, The Putney School in Vermont
Work with what you have
Even though the waitlist may seem like a possibility, students should pursue all other options at this time. If this means they need to get up to speed on their other choices, they need to do so ASAP. Be sure to visit those colleges, ask insightful questions, chat with a faculty member in your intended field of study, pick up a campus newspaper, and talk to current students. In the end, it is not where you go but what you do where you go.
- Dave Hamilton – Director of College Advising, St. Mary’s Ryken High School
Visiting is usually the best way to learn about a school
How great that several other schools really want you to be a student there! I would compare your backup schools side-by-side to see which ones best meet your criteria for things you are looking for in a college, then go visit those schools. If possible, attend the events offered specifically for admitted students. Talking with faculty and potential classmates can give you valuable insights you just can’t get anywhere else. If you can picture yourself living and learning with these people for the next four years, you’ve likely found the best school for you.
- Julie Manhan – Founder, College Navigation
Compare offers from back up schools before you reject them
One of the scariest parts of the college application process is being faced with the possibility of having to attend one of your back up schools. Since they want you, they will offer you incentives to attend their schools. Compare financial aid packages, internship programs and job placement opportunities to see what they offer you in paid school and summer work experience. Remember, many colleges will prepare you for your future. It’s humbling to be rejected but there are many excellent schools that can help you achieve your goals and many of them view you as their top choice.
- Kimberly Arias – Director of Programs, Project GRAD
Get the full story from 30 more experts – including the VP of the College Board, Dean of Admissions from University of Illinois and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
Week Two
March 18, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.
To have your questions answered visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
“Can what I post on Facebook affect my chances of getting accepted?” – Derrick L., New York, NY
Expert: Carolyn Blair
Title: Counseling Services Director
Organization: Clayton High School
Anything that is in the public domain is fair game, just be careful
As the age of the admissions officers become younger and younger, Facebook and other social networks are simply part of their culture. It used to be that admission offices would have a lot of hoops to get through to even access this information. Now many grandparents have a Facebook account. While there aren’t many schools actively searching students Facebook accounts for incriminating information, when you look at who is working in admission there are often many students. Some student could be from your school of hometown. Play this out and it wouldn’t take much for inappropriate behavior to reach the eyes of someone in an admission office. Best-case scenario is to play it safe!
Expert: Deborah Shames
Title: Transfer Admissions Advisor
Organization: Kaplan Leadership Program
Don’t expect privacy when posting online, everything can be found
You should have absolutely no expectation of privacy online. Your words and pictures should not portray unethical, illegal, or unflattering behavior. Even with the privacy settings you (hopefully) place on your own account, when posting on another wall, you don’t know who might read it, save it or maliciously use it against you. While I doubt admissions officers have the time to look you up on Facebook, why risk it. As my mother always says, don’t put anything in writing that you would be embarrassed to have your grandmother read 10 minutes, 10 weeks, or 10 years from now!
Expert: Gwyeth Smith
Title: President & CEO
Organization: College Quest Inc.
Facebook can show both the best and worst of you
Be smart, be vigilant, and be mature as you post on Facebook. It is important to know that many admission counselors are just a few years older than you are. All are members of the technology generation, which make lives very public. It is a wonderful vehicle for illustrating contributions you’ve made and special accomplishments you’ve enjoyed with organizations. Keep the information current and consider postings that might reflect the kind of involvement the college might expect from you as a member of their community.
Expert: Hamilton Gregg
Title: High School Counselor
Organization: International School
Be careful, be wise and be mature
I do not specifically know of students who have been advantaged or disadvantaged by what is posted on their sites. There are plenty of stories stating that prospective schools and employers do look to see what is posted with negative outcomes. I am sure that with thousands of applicants, they look only if alerted and I have heard that some schools do actively search sites for inappropriate behavior, poor language and other alarming information. Remember that colleges and universities are looking for responsible students to “fit” into their campus.
Expert: Stephanie Meade
Title: Owner
Organization: The Collegiate Edge
Would you let your grandmother see your Facebook page?
College admissions officers are generally way too busy for Facebook but, if they have a question or concern, they may look you up. Since many young, tech-savvy people work in admissions, and because you don’t know whom your Facebook friends know, you should never have a comment or photo visible or linkable that does not pass “the grandma test”. That means no pictures, links, or posts (even as a joke) about partying, drugs, sex, guns or anything else that could be misinterpreted by someone who does not know you. Keep it clean. An admissions officer (or grandma) may be checking!
Get the full story from 37 more experts – including the VP of the College Board, Dean of Admissions from University of Illinois and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
About the Unigo Expert NETWORK:
The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts across the US dedicated to the success and well-being of high school students as they make the transition to college life. With members from two-year, four-year, private, public, and independent institutions, the network has over 3,000 years of collective experience, spanning all areas of admissions, financial aid, and how to succeed in college.
To see all members of the Unigo Expert Network, visit www.unigo.com/admissionsexperts
Unigo.com is the web’s largest, 100% free resource for college information, used by over 4 million high school students and parents.
Week One
March 15, 2011 by Nick Barnowski
Filed under Unigo Expert Network
The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts from across the US answering questions submitted by students and parents about college admissions and succeeding after high school.
To have your questions answered visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
“How important are college rankings when choosing a college?” – Jamie R., Madison, WI
Title: Director of College Guidance
Organization: Albuquerque Academy in New Mexico
Use with caution!
Rankings are a good source of information. I would never buy an appliance without checking consumer ratings. Appliances get put through rigorous testing before they are rated by consumer magazines, but that isn’t true of colleges. Most college rankings get information directly from the colleges. In US News and World Report the data is plugged into a formula that is completely made up. It has nothing to do with what YOU will find important in a college. So use the DATA that is published for your own comparison of things like graduation and retention rates. But IGNORE the numerical rankings.
Expert: Betsy Morgan
Title: Founder
Organization: College Matters LLC
Colleges don’t change much year to year. Why do the rankings?
After all, who would buy the magazines or guidebooks if there weren’t a new number one? While some of the data used to derive the rankings are objective, subjective aspects such as perceived reputation are often used. And statistics can be manipulated or misinterpreted. Part of the problem is that the schools themselves provide much of the information going into the rankings. While many try to be absolutely accurate, some occasionally enhance their scores through creative data reporting. Should you ignore the rankings altogether? Not necessarily. But take them for what they are: a very small piece of the puzzle.
Expert: Gael Casner
Title: Founder
Organization: CollegeFindEdu.com
Look beyond college rankings to find a good match
Every year various companies post their annual college rankings. Families clamor to these sources, imagining that the order of each college gives insight into its educational value. The lower the number, the better the college, right? What rankings do not address is this: what do you need to be happy and successful at college? What environment will inspire you to take advantage of opportunities in and out of the classroom? Smart students will consider factors like teacher/student engagement, active learning experiences, and student culture. It’s important to find an academic and social setting that fits your unique style.
Expert: Lynda McGee
Title: College Counselor
Organization: Magnets High School
College rankings are meant to be a guide, not a bible
As more and more college put ads in magazines and on the internet, it can be confusing. Their view books make them all sound so wonderful. Rankings can help you sort out which programs are considered the most selective and prestigious. However, are they always the right choice? And how do they choose who makes the top of the list? Many factors go into college rankings, including alumni donations and how other institutions perceive them. Take that into account when you start to think that school #1 must be much better than school #20. What the rankings can do is introduce you to great schools you may be unfamiliar with. So check out those rankings, but remember that you will find an excellent education up and down the list.
Expert: Bob Tillman
Title: Director of College Placement
Organization: Creighton Preparatory School
College Rankings offer limited information
If someone is consulting college rankings, it is important to know what the rankings are based on. For instance, US News and World Report rankings provide a person with a list of schools that have a strong academic reputation, have good graduation and retention rates, are selective in admission of students, and have good salaries for their faculty and smaller classes. Those rankings do not tell you about student satisfaction with teaching, the campus living environment, percentage of students admitted to graduate school, or friendliness of students. Some important factors to consider that often are overlooked by students and might not be included in the rankings are the core course requirements at different schools, quality of the teachers encountered in the first two years of college, ability in enroll as a freshman in my desired major, guarantee of on-campus housing beyond freshman or sophomore year, the presence of an Honor Code on the campus, and the extent of study-abroad options. The rankings can provide a prospective student with some limited information, but there is so much other information a student needs to learn to determine if a school is a good fit for them.
Get the full story from 35 more experts – including the VP of the College Board, Dean of Admissions from University of Illinois and more – at www.unigo.com/expertnetwork. To send your question to our experts, visit www.unigo.com/expertquestions
About the Unigo Expert NETWORK:
The Unigo Expert Network is a group of top education experts across the US dedicated to the success and well-being of high school students as they make the transition to college life. With members from 2 year, 4 year, private, public, and independent institutions, the network has over 3,000 years of collective experience, spanning all areas of admissions, financial aid, and how to succeed in college.
To see all members of the Unigo Expert Network, visit www.unigo.com/admissionsexperts
Unigo.com is the web’s largest, 100% free resource for college information, used by over 4 million high school students and parents.
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