College Choice and COVID-19

These are crazy times, for sure. And seniors grappling with the sudden realization that they may not be participating in traditions such as Prom and Graduation are also faced with the weighty decision of where to go to college--often without ever having set foot on some of the campuses. It is a lot to digest, so take care of yourself as you process everything. What you should not do is put in a deposit to more than one college to give yourself more time to decide. It's the equivalent of hoarding all the toilet paper during a pandemic. Just don't do it.

Check out this Forbes piece for detailed advice on choosing a college during a pandemic, while also keeping the following in mind:

Don't Be Afraid to Reach Out

Colleges are generally being more responsive than ever to student and parent calls/concerns/questions, so email or call away. You will find admissions officers available and willing to chat.

Make Use of Opportunities

Virtual info sessions, personalized tours, chats with current students--it's all available, so take advantage of the new and creative outreach opportunities to learn more about the schools on your list. And don't just visit the school-sanctioned sites--really flex your research muscles and find websites and social media for clubs, sports, activities run by students; this will help you get a more vibrant sense of the campus community. Pay attention to how current students are chatting about how the college responded/treated them during the crisis.

Don't Feel Rushed

You have a month (or more) to decide. Do your research, listen to your gut, discuss financial realities at home, and don't be afraid to try something new or step outside your comfort zone.

Get Excited

Yes, everything is different now, but that doesn't mean it's all bad. You are completing a significant milestone and about to embark on a new chapter. Once you have made a decision about where you are headed, get excited--engage with the community, start making friends (online), and look for updates from the college on orientation and more.