Building Your College Target List
Two years before college is the perfect time to start serious college research. This isn't just about finding schools - it's about finding the right fit for your academic, athletic, and personal goals.
Research Categories
Academic Factors:
- Academic reputation and rankings
- Available majors and programs
- Class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios
- Graduation rates and job placement
- International student support services
Athletic Factors:
- Division level (I, II, III) and competition level
- Coaching staff and their recruiting philosophy
- Team culture and recent performance
- Scholarship availability and policies
- Facilities and training resources
Campus Life:
- Location and climate preferences
- Campus size and student body diversity
- International student population
- Housing options and campus activities
- Safety and campus security
Creating Your Target List
Dream Schools (3-5 schools):
- Top academic and athletic programs
- Highly competitive admission
- Your absolute top choices
Target Schools (5-8 schools):
- Good academic and athletic fit
- Realistic admission chances
- Strong scholarship potential
Safety Schools (3-5 schools):
- High probability of admission
- Still offer quality education
- Guaranteed scholarship opportunities
Research Tools and Resources
- College websites: Official information and virtual tours
- Athletic websites: Team rosters, stats, and recruiting info
- College ranking sites: US News, Princeton Review, etc.
- Social media: Follow teams and current players
- Recruiting websites: NCSA, BeRecruited, etc.
International Student Considerations
Pay special attention to:
- International student enrollment percentages
- ESL and academic support programs
- Cultural organizations and activities
- Career services for international students
- Alumni networks in your home country
Financial Planning
Understand the costs:
- Tuition and fees (in-state vs. out-of-state)
- Room and board expenses
- Books and supplies
- Personal expenses and travel costs
- Athletic scholarship possibilities
Making Contact
Start building relationships:
- Follow coaches on social media
- Attend college fairs and showcases
- Email coaches with your athletic profile
- Connect with current international students
Remember: The goal isn't just to get into college - it's to find the place where you'll thrive academically, athletically, and personally!