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Lots of families spend more time shopping for an automobile than selecting a college.

And, almost everyone knows what questions to ask when talking with an auto salesperson. That’s not necessarily the case when people are investigating a college.

Unfortunately, families are frequently intimidated by the prospect of interacting with college personnel, and are therefore afraid to ask questions even if they have them. For the most part, these people have an unfounded fear of asking “stupid questions” because they have not been through the college selection process before.

Your questions are unlikely to be stupid or inappropriate. And, it’s no big deal if they are. What would be a big deal would be making an awful college choice because of your fear of temporary embarrassment. Then you would have good reason to feel stupid. So, try these five questions…you have my guarantee they’re intelligent…and add some of your own.

1. What kinds of students are most likely to be happy and successful here?

2. How would you describe the relationship between students? Between students and faculty?

3. How engaged are students in academics? In campus activities?

4. Do students have any unique or special opportunities (internships, study abroad, community service, research, etc.)?

5. What percentage of students remain on campus on weekends?

After reading these five questions, I’ll bet you’ve thought of several more, including those you consider more important than my five. Write them down now, while you’re thinking of them, and add to them as you think of more things that will help you make your best college choice. In just a few more moments you’ll have taken some important steps toward finding the best college for you.

If you come up with the right questions and are not afraid to ask them, making a good college choice is a breeze.

Tags: Education

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