Weighing People, Place and Program...

Newstome
Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:08:29 +0000

We had a great visit this past Friday at Destination Tulane, and has the added treat of having President Cowan lead off the session with an outstanding 45 minute discussion on Why Tulane and how to approach the final decision. He advised students to evaluate colleges based on People, Place, and Program. So what do you do when your kid falls in love with the people and place, but the program at another school is stronger…and provides a more direct career path for her? And it is not that she doesn’t like the people or place at the other school…but she didn’t have the opportunity to visit again and is just less sure. We are certainly getting down to the wire, and trying to help her make the decision. We will support either one. It is clear to all of us that the other school has the edge in “program.” Not that she couldn’t pursue her career at Tulane, but it would take more effort on her part to establish connections, exposure, etc. I asked my D if she still sees herself in this field, and she said yes. We are not pushing her towards a particular career, but following her lead and interests. At one point at the visit, she said she wished her interests were more broad…like Pre law. Then Tulane would be perfect. She came to the conclusion that she might get frustrated with the broader, more open liberal arts program at Tulane. But she really loved so many things about Tulane. Do you weigh one factor more heavily than the others? We are down to the wire here! And I think I am posting here to feel like I am doing something constructive, as I sit back and try and guide her. Advice anyone? Thanks for “listening!”