<p>Kind and thoughtful. Thank you! (from a mom and school administrator!)
Practically speaking: sensible and careful college selection in the beginning helps quite a bit with this process. While it is OK to “reach” for your dream school, make sure you are dreaming of that school for the right reasons. Be sure to ask yourself and your parents “WHY” this school? Ask why over and over and be honest with yourself! If it is all about the name, label, or prestige make sure you have at least five other reasons…(like the athletics facility is the best, the dorms are squeaky clean, they offer organic food in the cafe, or the let you touch the science equipment before you are a junior or senior…) These are the reasons that matter. You are searching for a home and an education. Make sure you can leave educated and not just with a diploma and network from a school with a big name. My advice: Start by reading Loren Pope’s book, Looking Beyond the Ivy League - Finding the College That is Right For You and Time Magazines article on “Why Harvard”. Trust every word in these two sources and go from there. Best wishes and good luck! (We are four for four in the acceptance department and awaiting six more.)</p>