Congrats, you're accepted! 🎉 Now to pick the right college

So…you got into some amazing schools? First off—high five! The endless essays, the sleepless nights, the “Common App is so annoying" meltdowns—it all paid off.

But wait…plot twist: Now you actually have to choose one.

I’ve worked with a lot of students at this point, and let me tell you—this is where excitement meets existential crisis. The envelopes (or emails) are full of confetti and congratulations, but your brain might be full of “What if I pick the wrong one?”

Totally normal.

So, how do you figure out where to go when every school seems perfect?

Here are a few things I always suggest students consider when it feels like everything is riding on your decision:

🧠 Academic fit

• Strength of major: Are you already passionate about something? Some schools are world-class in specific programs. That might tip the scales for you.

• Flexibility: If you’re undecided (which is super normal), look for schools that make it easy to explore and switch majors. You might appreciate that later on.

• Class sizes: Do you want intimate seminars or massive lecture halls? Think about how you learn best and then consider the school that offers that experience.

🌎 Campus culture

• Vibe check: Preppy? Artsy? Nerdy? Activist? Sports-heavy? There’s no wrong answer, but the wrong fit can feel like four years in the wrong movie.

• Size matters: Small liberal arts college or large research university? Urban energy or leafy bubble? What’s your happy place

• Clubs/activities: Do you want to join acapella, start a nonprofit, or LARP on weekends? Make sure that community exists. College is not just about the academics. Make the most of your four years!

💰 Money talk

• Cost after aid: Even with competitive schools, financial aid offers vary wildly. Compare net costs now, not sticker prices. 

• Debt aversion: A school with a lower price tag may open more doors post-grad (especially if grad school’s in your future).

🚀 Outcomes

• Internships & job support: Are alumni networks strong? Do grads get recruited? What’s the career support like? All this will matter when you’re heading out for your next adventure.

• Where do grads end up?: Not just in terms of jobs—do they go to grad school? Start companies? Move to NYC? Raise goats in Vermont? Chances are, they do all these things. But ask around so you know you’re on the right track.

💬 Gut feeling (a.k.a. “The Vibe”)

• Visit if possible. Talk to students. Scroll Reddit. Watch dorm tours on YouTube. Ask yourself: Can I picture myself here on a random Tuesday afternoon?

🧪 Bonus decision hacks:

• The reverse decision trick: Flip a coin and pretend it’s binding. Do you feel relief or regret?

• The hoodie Test: Imagine wearing the school’s hoodie around where you live now. Which one makes you feel proud—or cringe?
  

• The “5 years from now” test: Where do you think you’ll have grown the most as a person?
  

You’re not choosing the “best school.” You’re choosing the best launchpad for your next chapter. And with lots of great options, you really can’t really go wrong—as long as you choose with your heart as much as you do with your brain.

Looking for help with any part of the college admissions journey? Reach out to Inclusive Admissions.