As the school year starts to end, more and more seniors have begun making their college commitments. However, some of us are having a harder time choosing than others. Many schools can offer very similar opportunities, which can make it hard to pick a school and feel confident in your choice. Here are some helpful tips that may help make the choice a little easier. 

If possible, you should take a tour of each campus you’re considering. Looking at a school’s website is very different than immersing yourself in its atmosphere. While you’re there, you can interact with current students and faculty, try local food, or take a walk to enjoy the scenery. 

Financial opportunity is a huge factor in many students’ college decisions. Even if you don’t love the Midwest, it might be worth it to stick around for four more years. In-state tuition is significantly cheaper, and traveling home for holidays will become easy. Scholarships can make a great dent in your tuition bill. However, many scholarships do not apply for more than a year, so it is important to take that into account. 

Finally, compare and contrast the opportunities that either college would give you within your major. Does one have a significantly higher nationally-ranked program? Does another offer summer or study-abroad internships? This comes down to what you think will suit your lifestyle best. For example, if you love traveling, research what study-abroad opportunities you can get by joining clubs or internships within the college that you find most interesting. 

College decisions may be stressful, but you got this, seniors!