Forget Brands — Look For A College That Fits
Dear Harlan,
I am halfway through my first semester as a high-school junior. Every day now, I am asked the same question over and over again: “What college do you want to go to?” I just tell people that I want to go to Indiana University or Purdue, but I honestly have no idea. I feel that none of the sources I go to for guidance are any help, especially my parents, who do not seem to understand how difficult it is for me to fit in socially or jump into new social situations. Any advice?
Searching
Dear Searching,
It depends on the basketball program. Purdue’s basketball program has been much stronger than IUs (and yes, this hurts to say, being an IU grad). But IU will turn it around in the next four years (I hope). Putting basketball aside, start this search all over again. Forget labels, familiar names or where other people are going. Identify three specific activities or interests that will help you find your place (one social, one academic, one spiritual). Then use the results as the leading criteria for your search. Consider schools of all sizes with all basketball records. Ask the pros to help guide you. Check out www.cappex.com (it’s a site where colleges will find you based on your wants and needs). As you go through your search, feel free to reach out to me on Facebook (www.facebook.com/HarlanCohen). I’ll be happy to introduce you to any of my friends on campuses that interest you. Start fresh and enjoy the search. Your place is waiting for you.
