It is crucial to keep precise and well-organized records of your college research. Finding an organizational approach that works best for you is vital, whether using a handwritten notebook or a digital spreadsheet. As you continue with your research, it is important to have your thoughts laid out and aligned with your criteria for consistency.  Note-taking is a crucial aspect of the research process, so document specific programs, traditions, and services that interest you. This will demonstrate your high level of research and help you answer the question, “Why this college?”

Your final college list should balance reach, target, and safety schools. Reach schools are those where your GPA, rigor, and testing scores are below average, while target schools are those where your GPA, rigor, and testing scores are around average. Safe schools are a good match for you, where your GPA, rigor, and testing scores are above average. Lean on your support team to help you determine whether a particular college is a reach, target, or safety school based on the college’s profile and your high school’s application history. 

These tools will assist you in staying organized, tracking accomplishments, and planning for post-secondary goals! Once you make a copy of the tool(s), you can customize it to meet your specific needs!