<p>Neither my husband or I went to college. Our son, who will be a junior this year, is very bright. He didn’t want to go to any college with a ‘party’ school reputation (OU, WSU, ect). We live in a small town of about 5,000 and son wanted to go to a school in a big city, not a community college. He is interested in business, so he wanted a school that had a certain business accreditation. </p>
<p>We visited four colleges. One was Ohio State and as fabulous as it is, we all felt a three hour drive was a long distance for us. He is our only child and I also have some health issues, so those factored into the choice. Also, a main factor was how large Ohio State is. Our son’s personality is such that he would feel lost there. </p>
<p>He ended up chosing a college in Pittburgh, PA, about an hour from home. There are about 9,000 students, so it’s not too big or small. He got some scholarships which have helped with tuition. It’s worked out well, the college suits him. We see him at least several times a month and he found work over the summer there.</p>
<p>If there is a college that has a good reputation for teaching whatever your son is interested in taking, consider that college more than others. Then determine if it’s the right size, location and is it affordable. Not all kids need to go away for college. I know so many that attend in our area for a couple years before they’re ready to leave home and they go on to bigger colleges, get degrees and good jobs. </p>
<p>Good luck on the process.</p>