Making Your Final Decision

The acceptances and financial aid packages are in. You’ve narrowed your options, and now it’s time to make a decision. How do you know what college to choose? Take a deeper dive into experiencing the college by visiting the campus. Take the time to get the counsel of trusted advisors. Think back to your earlier reflection on the various factors for the right college fit for you and make a choice based on how well the college aligns with your specific goals and priorities. Seek the Lord in prayer as you consider these things and choose a college where you can grow and thrive and become who God has made you to be.

Visit Campus

Start with a simple tour, but then go deeper. Find out if there are events that allow you to spend the night on campus. Staying in the dorms will give you a great sense of whether or not you could feel at home. Try to meet with a faculty member on your visit and consider the caliber of the department you’ll be joining.

Talk to Trusted Advisors

It’s wise to seek the wisdom of others. Again, teachers, parents, grandparents, older siblings and mentors are great people to consult. Ask them to pray for you and pray with you.

Consider the Cost

Money shouldn’t be the only factor, but it is an important one to consider. Once you know the total financial aid that’s being offered, weigh your options. Don’t be afraid to talk to your admissions counselor about additional opportunities for aid if you’re eager to go to a college but need a bit more help.

Explore Student Life

What are the dorms like? Are there campus traditions, student publications or annual events? Are there clubs you’d want to be part of? Where is the school located, and what do students do on the weekend? Will you have opportunities to engage in a diverse community? What about athletics teams? College is an education, but remember that your holistic experience matters, too.

Pray

It almost goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway. Pray for peace, for discernment, for faith, for the willingness to be obedient to the call of Christ. Pray by yourself and with others. Rest in the nearness of Christ, and know that he delights to journey with you through uncertainty.

This is an important decision, but if you find yourself stuck between two or three good options, then you’re bound to pick a good option. No matter what, God will work in and through your decision.