THE DECISION

Congratulations, you are in the final semester of your senior year. Life is good as you think about prom, finishing that last semester of high school and graduation day. You have already been accepted at those 4-6 colleges on your list and probably received your merit scholarship offers as well!

Now you wait for the financial aid notification in March and then begin to come to a final decision on your college choice. Unless you are a D-1 or D-II athletic recruit don't let anyone pressure you into making a decision before you are ready. We are bound ethically as a profession to not require a decision from you prior to May 1st.

Now you will hear that making a decision, or depositing early has its benefits and it does. Most institutions make decisions on housing placement, class registration dates based upon the receipt of the deposit. So, if you have made up your mind then send in your deposit to insure that you get your housing preference and an early registration date. If those things aren't important to you and you are truly undecided then make another visit to your final college choices before making a final decison.

You are making a decision of where you want to spend the next four years. Most employers and higher education administrators say that the college experience is one of the most important in a young persons life. Make the decision that is best for YOU, not your parents, not your friends and not your current love interest!

Good luck with your decision.

Best wishes!