It’s Now Decision Time for High School Seniors

Many colleges and universities have now postponed, from today (May 1st) until June 1st, the deadline for accepted students to formally enroll and submit their deposit money to join their college community.  That gives students a bit more time, but not very much, to analyze so many factors that have suddenly come into play.

Since so much is still unknown, and will be for some time, students have to honestly weigh their priorities.  They need to consider whether they are still thrilled at the prospect of being a part of their intended college community even if they will be attending their first semester classes online from home with absolutely no collegiate social life (football games to attend, sororities and fraternities to join, hundreds or even thousands of new people to meet).

For students who were accepted to a “reach” school that was almost beyond their wildest expectations, the decision may be easier.  They will likely be amenable to putting up with whatever they need to for the short term, in order to ultimately attend, and graduate from, their dream school.

For students who were planning to attend a New Jersey college or university, the decision may also be an easy one.  With their home within driving distance, and perhaps even commuting distance, they have the comfort of knowing that their family is close by and adapting to changing situations is less complex.

But students who were planning on attending a distant school, with anticipation of an active social life and limitless academic opportunities (hands-on research labs, internships, study abroad), may want to reconsider their options.  College life will almost certainly be different from what was expected, especially in the short term.

Finances, too, may likely be a consideration.  If the intended college offered a generous financial aid package complete with scholarship/grant money, a student may be more likely to attend as planned.  But if a family’s finances have taken a negative turn, and the financial aid package is no longer attractive or feasible, the college should be contacted.  Often, the financial aid package will be re-calculated and the student may want to enroll as planned. Otherwise, alternatives can be considered.

Community colleges are expecting a boon in enrollment as the cost is usually the most attractive and, if students will likely be taking classes online and living at home anyway, they may want to take advantage of the most cost-effective option.  

Another option for students is to ask for a deferment from the college they were planning on attending. When students “defer” they postpone their arrival on campus, usually by one year, and gain some meaningful experience during what is typically referred to as a “gap year.” Malia Obama did this, as did Princes William and Harry of England. 

Students need to consider their individual circumstances and weigh their options before making what will ultimately be one of the most important decisions of their life. 

Susan Alaimo is the founder of SAT Smart. For the past 25 years, SAT Smart’s Ivy League educated tutors have prepared students for the PSAT, SAT, ACT, Subject Tests, AP courses, and all high school subjects. Visit www.SATsmart.com or call 908-369-5362