on National Colleges, College Admissions, and College Life
Conduct a Comprehensive College Search By Location
by Paul D. Rosevear
If you're seeking out education in a particular geographical area, there are plenty of options available to you to conduct a college search by location. First and foremost, don't hesitate to harness the power of the Internet. "Make the most of the internet," says Kelly Tanabe, author of "Get Into Any College." "Visit the colleges' Web sites to take a virtual tour, see what classes are offered, and get a preview of student life. In addition to getting the official party line from the school itself, get insight from the students. Visit individual students' Web sites, the student-written newspaper, and the Web sites of student organizations."
If your college search by location involves researching an area within driving distance of where you live, it's always best to physically set foot on campus. "Try to visit the college and speak with actual students," says Tanabe. "Colleges only present their strengths, but students will tell you the real story, including the weaknesses of a college. If you can't afford to visit, ask the admission office to connect you with a current student."
Oftentimes magazines and guidebooks can offer help in your college search by location, but be wary of what you read. "Remember that rankings of schools [in news magazines] are based on what journalists think is important for a general student population," says Tanabe. "You have individual needs and goals for selecting a college that will guide you better than the number-crunching of news magazine rankings."
Regardless of whether your schools of interest are near or far, your college search by location should definitely include person-to-person interaction. "Remember that colleges are marketing themselves to you," explains Tanabe. "Students will go beyond the marketing messages to let you know the good and bad."