As senior year comes to a close and May 1st is quickly approaching, it’s time for these Raptors to leave the nest. While some students have their heart set on a school and applied Early Decision, others aren’t so sure, applying to upwards of 12 different schools across the country and even some outside the U.S. From the popular in-state choices of Clemson and Carolina, to Edinburgh and Durham in the UK, Magnet students have a wide range of options. Getting into these schools is half the battle, not to mention choosing where to go after the acceptances are released. Which leads us to the big question most seniors are facing: how does one go about choosing? There are many factors that go into consideration, from cost of tuition to educational programs and school location, the list could go on forever. Each person has their own priorities, and I would encourage all struggling seniors to make a list of what they’re looking for in a school. Anything from the weather, Greek life, career opportunities out of college, distance, social scene and school size should and likely will affect your decision. Making note of these factors and comparing your preferences may help you discover what is most important  to you. 

One of the most overlooked aspects that may affect your decision is just everyday life on campus. A school may seem perfect on paper with all the ideal opportunities and convenient location, but without the right environment, these factors might not be worth it in the long run. It may just be that most people who attend a certain college have vastly different views than you, making it harder to fit in and relate to your fellow classmates. Chances are you will find your people regardless, but still, it is hard to know what everyday life will be like in a place you have never been, which is why visiting colleges you are interested in is very encouraged. Touring is a great way to learn about what the school has to offer, but on top of doing an official tour, I would definitely recommend exploring campus on your own time to see more of the day to day college experience that you aren’t really exposed to on the tours. Doing this may make you realize that what you thought was your dream college isn’t really a good fit for you socially, or maybe that a school you weren’t really considering might be a better option than you thought. There is something to be said for keeping an open mind and giving everywhere a fair chance, you just might be surprised by what you find. 

With all the stress of choosing your new home for the next four years, It may feel like you are searching for a perfect match- hoping one school will just click, or you will fall in love at first tour.  Although this is true for some, this very well may not be the case for you, and that is totally ok. Leaving your hometown to go states away or even just going to a different part of South Carolina is a major change, and it’s normal if the transition seems daunting. However, don’t let this deter you, it can help to focus on the pros and cons when it comes to making the best decision for yourself, letting the rest fall into place. Don’t feel like you have to be 110% committed on your decision, chances are you will love wherever you go more and more as you spend time there and discover where you belong. Not to mention you can always transfer out if you determine your chosen college isn’t the right fit after all. With that being said, you should definitely go with your gut on what feels right, even though it may be a little more expensive or a little less practical, if it is what will make you happy (and you are willing/ able to make these sacrifices), it will be worth it in the end. 

Thanks for reading and good luck finding the place for you!!