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    • What to Consider
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Choosing the Right College

Did you know there are almost 3,000 four-year colleges in the United States alone? With that many, it can seem almost impossible to choose a college. On the other hand, sometimes it can seem deceptively simple for academically gifted students: you should go to Harvard, Yale, Princeton, or one of the other big name schools. But that’s not always the case.

When you’re choosing a college, it’s very important to find a school that’s a good fit for you. That means you’re looking for a college that fits your interests, your personality, and your goals. Sometimes, the obvious choice is the best one. But for some people, the college that is best for them is something other people don’t understand.

Nobody knows what’s right for you except you. But we’re here to help lead you through the process so you can figure out it.

You have a headstart if you have attended a Duke TIP academic or summer program on a college campus. Can you picture yourself attending college at that school? If you are attending next summer, while you are on campus, take the time to think about these key questions to determine whether that school is a good fit for you. And if you are arriving or departing to your TIP campus by car, make plans to arrive early or depart later in order to schedule a tour, meet with an admissions counselor, or talk to someone in the financial aid office. Maximize your time and experience since you will already be on campus!

It is essential to sit back and really think before you move on to the next stage of life. I ended up changing my plans for college and am so grateful that things turned out as they did. I know counselors and teachers say this all the time, but these decisions are really in YOUR hands. Your parents and teachers and friends don’t live with the results, you do. -Elizabeth M., Duke TIP alum

Parent TIPs

Discourage your gifted student from making a short list based on prominent colleges. Remind them that college is about the best fit for his or her interests and personal style. While Yale may be perfect for some, it may not be the best fit for others. This is especially the case if the school does not offer courses and activities that they enjoy, the location that they want, etc.

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