Harvard, Yale, and Princeton are only a few of the biggest names in American universities. Being accepted to one of these schools would make your parents really proud because it shows that you've got what it takes to be part of the next league of great individuals.
But your school's name doesn't always say everything. In fact, there are other less popular colleges that offer quality, or even better, education than that of an Ivy League school. So if you're in search of a college that can truly address your needs and bring out the best in you, then here are some guidelines that can help:
1. Consider what the school has to offer. About six years ago, James Sanchez declined his ticket to Harvard and went instead to Davidson College in North Carolina. Why? Because Davidson College promised him actual laboratory work with doctors and professors, something Harvard wasn't able to guarantee. He is now in medical school with zero regrets.
2. Safeguard your sanity. Check out the campus grounds: the environment, the people, and of course, the food. College life is full of pressure, and you can't beat that by living in a noisy neighborhood of dorms. You do need to stay sane until you graduate!
3. Be practical. What if your parents can't afford the tuition costs of Ivy League? There sure are less expensive schools that offer quality education as well as financial aid opportunities that can help not only you but also your family.
4. Search for key specializations. Rather than competing with other students in a branded university, why not focus on working on your own expertise? In the long run, you'd find it more fulfilling to be recognized on your own merit and not because you came from a highly-reputable school.
5. Look out for other opportunities that the school can provide. Dreaming of studying abroad? That low-profile college may just make that dream come true. Also, other colleges and universities work with companies and business firms that can give you favorable work opportunities once you graduate.
While these tips help you out in searching for the college that matches your needs and preferences, you might as well scout for scholarships and financial assistance that can support your education needs. These financial aid programs can help you provide for your necessities, even if you end up going to an Ivy League university.
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My daughter pretended to go to college classes and didn't
By: mom23 | 07-07-2008
My young adult (20 yr. old) daughter who practically had perfect attendance/good grades all through school, is struggling in college. She lives 2 hours away at the University. What I mean by struggling is, she did fine the first two years, then the whole 3rd year we just found out, she received 0 credits. She would schedule herself for classes every quarter, even ask us for book money for her classes, then eventually drop or just quit going to the classes, resulting in F's or 0. Her first two years her grades were good, we saw them. The 3rd year, she always told us everything was going good, her grades were good, we just took her word for it.We suspected she might not be doing well, since she never actually showed us her grades, but we were going to let her handle it, rather than hover over her, to try and teach her problem solving skills, etc. This summer after she came home, she asked if she could live at the University for the summer, work and take summer classes. Since this is typical for most seniors, we said sure. We asked to see her grades and to make sure she was on track to graduate on time, etc. In the meantime, we moved her to her new apartment, got new furniture for her, etc. We called her and asked her to let us know about her grades, so she gave us her password to check online to see her grades. Well when we looked, she had 0 credits for the whole junior year. We were so upset, my husband immediately called her and said what is going on?? She said I had a bad year, I was afraid to tell you, I thought I could handle it myself and I didn't want you to find out, because I promise I will do better now and that won't happen again. And my husband said, of course it won't happen again, if you miss one class, drop one class, or make another F, you are moving back home immediately. My husband and I have been sick worried over her now. I am worried about drugs now and all kinds of things. My imagination has gone crazy. I don't know who I can talk to because I am almost embarrassed this happened right under our noses. I am so scared. Please advise me. Thank you so much.
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