How to Choose the Right College: A Senior’s Guide

Hey senior! Picking a college that will help you elevate to the next level of “Adulting” can be challenging. Let alone deciding on a major. My advice pick a career that’s gonna be in demand is super smart because it means more job opportunities and better pay after you graduate.

What College Should You Pick?

1. Research colleges based on the major you chosen, campus culture, location, and size. In addition, check to see if they offer scholarship opportunities. Visit campuses if you can, and consider what kind of community and environment feels right for you. Definitely check out the dorms and dining options.

   
   

2. Make sure the college offers strong programs in your field of interest and has resources that match your needs—like support services, clubs, sports or study abroad options.

   
   

3. Create a balanced list of schools, including a mix of “reach,” “match,” and “safety” options.

   
   

Think About Finances Early

1. Review your family’s financial situation and talk openly with your parents/guardians about how much you can realistically afford. Be honest and true to yourself.

   
   

2. Look for scholarships and grants at the school and external scholarships - these don’t need to be repaid and can significantly reduce costs. Keep your grades up to apply for merit based scholarships. Check out organizations like Girlscouts of America to see if they offer scholarships.

   
   

3. Fill out the FAFSA to see what federal aid you qualify for, and check if your colleges require additional financial aid forms. If don’t qualify then make a spreadsheet with deadlines and requirements for scholarships you may qualify for.

   
   

Who’s Going to Pay for College?

1. Have a candid conversation with your family about who will contribute and how much. Consider savings, current income, and any college funds that have been set aside. Remember: Your the one getting the degree so own it! Get a part-time job, get good grades to apply for merit based scholarships, and if you have too try to get loans under your name. This is your future. Own it!

   
   

2. Explore work-study programs and part-time jobs that can help cover expenses while you’re in school.

   
   

Is It Worth Getting Student Loans?

1. Yes and No: I dislike that I took out over $150K in loans for a degree in which I am not working in the field. My advice borrow wisely, and use it only for school. Not for paying off debt or vacation. Keep your total debt less than your expected first year’s salary after graduation.

   
   

2. Federal loans often have better terms and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Remember: Subsidized loans are for undergraduates with financial need. The government pays the interest while you’re in school and during certain periods, so your loan balance doesn’t grow.

   
   

   Unsubsidized loans are for all students, regardless of need. You’re responsible for all interest from the start, and it accrues even while you’re in school.

   
   

   Key difference: Subsidized = no interest while in school; Unsubsidized = interest accrues immediately.

Remember: The less you borrow, the more financial freedom you’ll have after graduation.

Choose a major that matches your interests but also consider job outlook and salary potential for long-term stability.

Consider Your Post-College Lifestyle

Four years in college goes fast. Start thinking about how will your life look like after graduating. Think about the kind of work-life balance you want, and what your financial goals are after graduation.

Ask yourself?

Am I going back to live with my family?

Do I want to stay in the state or move elsewhere?

What will my life look like in 4 years?

Do I Want to Owe Money After Graduation? If so, how much? Will I be able to pay it off within a year after I graduate?

The amount of debt you take on will impact your lifestyle—less debt means more freedom to travel, save, or pursue your passions. Graduating debt-free or with minimal debt gives you more options and less stress. If you plan to work during college, look for schools with flexible schedules or strong on-campus job programs.

Is the major of your choice going to give you the lifestyle that you want? Will the career be in demand in the next 10 years.

This one is important and controversial. Over the next 10 years, the most in-demand careers will be driven by technology, healthcare, green energy, and data.

Here are the rankings:

1. Healthcare Professionals: Nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, radiologist and other advanced practice nurses are seeing rapid growth due to aging populations and expanded healthcare access. These roles are projected to grow by 40% and offer high salaries.

   
   

2. Software Developers & AI Specialists: Demand for software developers and artificial intelligence specialists remains strong, fueled by digital transformation and automation. These jobs offer high pay and steady growth, with software development projected to grow 17%.

   
   

3. Data and Cybersecurity Experts: Data scientists, information security analysts, and cybersecurity professionals are increasingly needed as organizations rely more on data and face rising cyber threats.

   
   

4. Green Energy and Skilled Trades: Wind turbine technicians, solar photovoltaic installers, and building construction workers are in demand as the world shifts toward renewable energy and infrastructure development.

   
   

5. Logistics and Delivery: Delivery drivers and truck drivers are essential due to the growth in e-commerce and supply chain needs.

   
   

6. Mental Health and Counseling: Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are needed as awareness and demand for mental health services rise.

   Other growing fields include biotechnology, telemedicine, education (especially with digital skills), and management roles that require strategic thinking and data analysis. These careers offer strong job prospects, competitive salaries, and resilience against automation.

   
   

Final Thoughts

Take time to reflect on your goals, talk with your family, and seek advice from counselors and financial aid experts.

Remember: College is a big investment in your future—choose wisely, plan carefully, and aim for a path that sets you up for success and happiness.