College Admissions Decision Day – Top Five Considerations
- evanms98
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
Guest Blog By Mary Miele, Education Consultant, Founder of Evolved Education Company
Note from Dr. Stephanie Miodus, Next Steps Psychology Founder: As a psychologist who works closely with children, teens, and families, I often hear how stressful the college decision process can be. That is why I am excited to share this thoughtful guest post from Mary Miele, founder of Evolved Education Company, who offers clear, practical advice to help students and families navigate the final steps of choosing a college.
As May 1st approaches, seniors face an exciting yet challenging decision: choosing the right college. This choice involves thoughtful consideration, not only about the academics, but also about the experience you'll have over the next few years.
Here are five key ways to best consider your college decision:
Visit Your Top Choices During the Academic Session
Visit colleges when students are on campus and classes are in session. This gives you an authentic feel of campus life. Attend a class, dine in the dining hall, or spend time in common areas. Notice the energy, interaction, and overall environment. Identify the questions you still have and ensure you have answers. Many students ask me, "What if I want to change my major once I arrive on campus?" "How do kids socialize here?"
Imagine Your Day-to-Day Life as a Freshman
Take a moment to visualize a typical day as a freshman. Think about your schedule, meals, activities, clubs, and social opportunities. Are you comfortable with the social scene and extracurricular options available? Will you thrive and feel included? This exercise can clarify if the school aligns with what you are looking for.
Research Your Future Professors
The professors you'll have can significantly influence your college experience. Look up faculty in your intended major or fields of interest. What are their specializations, research interests, and teaching styles? Imagine yourself learning from them—does this excite or motivate you?
Understand Your ROI (Return on Investment)
Consider the practical aspects of your education, especially future employment. Research the careers and graduate outcomes of alumni from your prospective schools. Websites like College Scorecard and LinkedIn Alumni Tool can provide valuable insights into where recent graduates are employed and how successful they are.
Consider Flexibility in Changing Majors
If you're uncertain about your chosen major, investigate how easily students can switch fields of study. Some schools have flexible curricula, while others are more rigid. Understanding the process and flexibility around changing majors ensures you have room to explore academically without major roadblocks.
Still Unsure? I'm Here to Help!
Deciding on a college can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. I'm offering one-on-one consultations designed to clarify your choices and help you confidently make your decision.
About the Author:
Mary Miele is the founder of Evolved Education Company, an experienced education consultant, and a certified College Counselor. Evolved Education Company’s work is dedicated to enhancing educational experiences for students, ensuring they are learning and living well. With a deep passion for personalized learning, Mary works to empower students to achieve their full potential. Feel free to book your consultation today.
