Here is a list of some factors, other than numbers, that may go into determining college fit:
- Activities, Clubs, and Interests – We believe that having the opportunity to continue interests and passions beyond high school is a key to success after graduation. Talking about club and activities with current university students and admissions officers is one way that we try to facilitate this aspect of the process. Be sure to check upcoming events on our homepage and feel free to sign up for our “Ask an AO” information session series, usually running between fall and midwinter!
- Climate – Few things are worse than waking up one day after college acceptance and orientation realizing you’ve made a huge mistake due to external, environmental factors. Out here in the PNW, we’ve grown to love the cool, marine climate, and there are plenty parts of the U.S. – and the world – that are vastly different in so many ways. Did you know that 61% of college students say they plan to stay close to where they study after graduation, as they transition to the work force? Discussions about where you actually see yourself living 5, 10, even 15 years from now are important!
- Class Size – A small, nurturing community like WA Prep is something that you’ll almost never find at the collegiate level. So, are the same motivators that drew your student to a small community in elementary/middle/high school intact as they reach sophomore, junior, and senior years? Is an auditorium of 500 or 1000 freshman in a 101-level class going to be daunting? Will your student require individualized attention? How about receiving lectures from a TA, versus an actual professor? All of the answers to these questions factor in when making a decision!
- Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Debt – Student debt is a hot topic these days! Will student debt be “erased”? How much is “too much” debt? In addition to these questions, we have to look at aid packages and scholarship opportunities specific to schools, and also private, independent entities.
- Career Orientation – Through our internship program, and work with other people and businesses in our community, maybe your student has an early interest in trade school, community college, or other apprenticeship opportunities. We believe that there are alternative paths to formal education in 4-year institutions.