College Search Advice Myths - Revealed!

There are so many facets to consider when it comes to choosing a college. Often times, it’s difficult to know who is truly helpful and who is just talking when asking for advice. Then, you keep hearing all this talk about going to the “best” schools – what does that even mean? Best price? Best graduates? Do you even know what “best” means? As you begin to draft your list of potential colleges, you will start to notice that everyone around you seems to have an opinion on where you should end up. The thing is, they aren't going to college - you are. And, while it's important to hear people out, it's also important to hear yourself too. The following examples are great reminders that, before you trust blindly, you should be aware of the following myths given in college advice (often with the best intentions):

Listen to ME.

Everyone thinks their advice is the right advice. Choosing a college isn't easy so, naturally, you look to loved ones, friends and peers for advice. But, remember, good intentions and good advice are not the same thing. They likely have the best of intentions, but make sure you take advice regarding your college search from people who really know what they're talking about! You should attend my school – it’s the best place for you. Recruiters have a job to do and it’s not always in your best interest. It’s not always the case but remember that they do have to fulfill their job requirements – which means quotas to fill and making money for their university by getting students to attend.

Find the “best” college out there.

Best is a relative term. The “best” college for you is the one you will be able to graduate from. Going to a school that’s too expensive for you or is too difficult might mean the difference between you struggling to get by or graduate at all.

That school won’t look good on your resume.

Future employers don’t care where you enrolled first. No matter what people tell you, it’s really where you graduate from that matters – and even that’s not always a determining factor in you getting the job. Most often, it’s your grades, experience and qualifications all rolled up into one package. Just because you went to an Ivy League school doesn't mean you’ll get every job you apply for.

Pursue your passion blindly.

By all means, pursue your passion. You don’t need to let economics decide your major but, it would be downright silly to ignore reality. If you’re going into a field that doesn't have many jobs, it’s something to be aware of and it’s smart to acknowledge this by broadening your studies so that you have a backup plan. What’s the best or worst advice you’ve received regarding your college search?