What am I Missing about 'Fit'?

College Search & Lists
1

<p>So I’ve narrowed my college choices down to three different schools (WashU, Duke, and Rice), and what should I be looking for in terms of ‘fit’ that I’m missing?</p>

<p>Honestly, I’d be happy to attend any of these schools (they have really cool, one-of-a-kind programs in areas of study I’m interested in) and have that sort of intellectual environment.</p>

<p>I’m from a suburban area, don’t really go ‘out’ that much (at all, really), and so I’m completely lost as to what to look at in terms of student life and such. I’m a southern gal, and none of them seem to be incredibly cold in terms of weather. They all have pretty active campuses and are near-ish to urban centers, two have res colleges and the other has a first-year experience…</p>

<p>I guess I’ve never thought that much about what kinds of things would make me ‘happy,’ mainly because I can see myself happy at all of these schools. So what am I missing? Any ideas on what else to look at?</p>

2

<p>You’re not missing anything. You were smart enough to apply to schools that were a good fit. Now you have decide with one you like the best.</p>

<p>Good luck! And congratulations!</p>

3

<p>Since you’re from Texas, you might want to experience living in a different part of the country for four years (although don’t underestimate winter in St. Louis or Durham). But you’re right, you can be happy at many different colleges. Your choices do have lots in common. Duke has Greek life (that may be a plus or a minus in your book, or it may not really matter) and a bigger sports presence.</p>

4

<p>Thanks for the responses. I’m currently looking at a couple of different majors at these schools (Public Policy Studies @ Duke, Urban Studies @ WashU, and Policy Analysis (w/ Stats) @ Rice). What would be the best way to learn more about the departments? The latter two have pretty small departments, from what I can tell, and I’d like to talk to either an upperclassman or a professor there about size of department, opportunities, graduating on time, etc. Should I go through the admissions office? Email a professor directly?</p>

5

<p>Just email a professor directly, preferably the head of the department. Ask about strengths and weaknesses and say which other schools you’re considering. If you do visit the schools, ask if its possible to meet with a professor, so you can speak with him or her about the pros and cons of the major.</p>