Syed Shabbir
University of Michigan

A new year is here and hopefully all of you seniors have already sent in your applications to your favorite colleges. Enjoy the respite from the standardized tests, forms, and essays because soon the results will start rolling in and you'll need to make one of the most important and often stressful decisions of your life--choosing the right college. Seek advice from family, friends and your guidance counselor, but in the end it is a completely personal decision. To help you choose the right college, I have mentioned a number of important factors but remember that they weigh differently for each person.

Cost and Financial Aid
Looking back, I realize how much attention I should have paid to college costs. Take it from someone working two jobs and a research project in his freshman year. Pay close attention to the financial aid that colleges are offering. Estimate tuition, fees, room and board, books, and explore loan options. Talk to your parents and choose the alternative that best fits your needs.

University Reputation
Believe it or not, university prestige is often an influential force behind students' decisions. Perhaps this is not unwarranted. It signifies a rich tradition of quality education and makes it easier to get accepted in case you want to transfer, apply to graduate school, or even apply for a job. It also gives you bragging rights among friends. So if the college reputation is a major factor to you, be sure to research the U.S. News college rankings. But keep in mind the costs and the experience that you really want out of school.

"Other factors"
Sometimes various other factors play into the decision to choose the right college. These include religious affiliations, sports in which you are interested in participating, as well as certain academic programs like pre-med. You might have a preference for small schools or large schools. Perhaps you prefer staying close to home or want to move as far away as possible. Everyone has his/her own opinions. Be sure to take them into account if they are important to you.

Campus Visits
Before accepting admissions, be sure to visit at least two of your favorite colleges. Yes, it is time consuming and sometimes costly, but it is worth it. Take a tour, meet students, talk to the alumni, and if possible, spend a night at the dorm. Use the opportunity to evaluate housing conditions and the school atmosphere.

All these factors play a role in varying degrees, but in the end it is a completely personal decision. This is why I have put so much emphasis on visiting the campus. What is most important is whether the school feels right to you. All other factors can be compromised in favor of your comfort. If you can see yourself walking the across the campus grounds next fall, then I think you already know what to do.