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To celebrate the upcoming release of Bridie Clark's latest book, "Snap Decision: Maybe Tonight?," Clark shares advice on how to choose the perfect college:

Visit. If you can, arrange to spend some time at the school. Audit some classes in a field you like, hang out in the student commons, and don’t be shy about asking students about their experiences at the school. While you don’t want to jump to conclusions (one grumpy professor doesn’t mean the academics are lame), listen to your gut… is this where you want to be?

Reflect on who you are and who you want to be. If you started a Mandarin club at your high school and wallpapered your bedroom with maps of Europe, you want a school that will allow you to expand your horizons and explore the world. Focus on the study abroad options, which can vary widely between schools. College is also a chance to reinvent yourself. Maybe you spent your high school years in a hockey uniform, but have always wanted to try acting. Daydream about what you’d most like to try in college—it’s the perfect opportunity to grow and stretch—and then research which school will offer what you’re looking for.

Talk to alums. A powerful and passionate alumni network can be a useful tool as you make your way in the world post-college. If possible, strive to meet some alums and talk to them about the ways the school helped them in their careers.

Step outside your comfort zone. On this point, I speak from personal experience. When I was applying to schools, I ruled out any campus that was not in driving distance from my close-knit family. Driving distance could mean 8 hours—but I vetoed the west coast. Looking back, although I have no regrets, I wonder what I might have gained by living in another part of the country—or in another country— for those four years.

Relax. Very few decisions in life are truly irrevocable. If freshman year leaves you dissatisfied, you can always try to transfer. 

Guest post by: Bridie Clark       

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