National Decision Day: Choose You

Tomorrow is May 1, which means millions of teens are poised to make decisions that may affect the course of their lives at the very last minute.  But first the news…

NEWS

Less than it was, more than you have: The actual cost of college (notwithstanding the price-immune elite) has been decreasing. Even better for students who actually, you know, study, merit aid is increasing.

When making millions in high school is not enough: Speaking of elites, these ultra-selective schools are inundated by amazing applicants. Even the most impressive applicants–e.g. building million-dollar businesses between classes–need to take a balanced approach to admissions.

Time to swap tweed for teamwork: The President of the University of Manchester has a simple message: higher ed collaboration is vital for boosting economic growth.  Duncan Ivison called for UK universities to ditch their ivory towers and become engines of national resilience.

Hasta la visa? International students across the U.S. are having their visas yanked by the State Department at record rates for mostly unknown reasons. Schools and advocates are scrambling, warning that America’s welcome mat is looking a little threadbare. 🎓✈️🚫

BIG IDEA
Choose Who? Choose YOU.

Is it National Decision Day already?  May 1 is the date by which most colleges expect students to officially commit, mainly by submitting a deep, meaningful, utterly nonrefundable enrollment deposit. Before you start writing that check, take a moment. The balance of power in the grueling college admissions has now shifted in your favor. Ignore what might look good on paper and consider where you might really thrive…

ACADEMIC FIT
Look for both your target major or program and the freedom to switch tracks without penalty if you change your mind.

CULTURAL FIT
Consider a matrix of important factors like school size, school culture, weather, and (most important for many) distance from home.

FINANCIAL FIT  
For most students, this one should be first. If you’re not receiving full aid or scholarship, how much debt can you and your family realistically carry?

Sure, these considerations mattered all along, but this is the point in the college journey where things get real. You’re not just choosing a sweatshirt or a team to root for–you’re choosing your home, lifestyle, and friend group for the next 4-6 years and perhaps your career path and social network for decades later. Choose you. 

(And keep in mind you can always transfer if things don’t work out. 😅)

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NAME THAT SCHOOL

This week’s institution of higher education is one of many on the national stage recently. Can you name it? (Find the answer at the end of the newsletter.)

1. Founded in 1925 and opened to students the next year despite a natural disaster delaying construction.

2. The school’s mascot used to be named Icky but is now known as Sebastian.

3. Known as a major research university, especially strong in marine science, medicine, and engineering.

4. Boasts a widely respected school of music with many famous performers and Grammy winners as alums.

5. The school and its celebrated teams are recognizable by a single letter.

APPLICATION ACTION STEPS

• Master the “meta” of test prep.

• Explore a list of colleges that meet 100% of need.

• Work more productively with the Pomodoro Technique.

• Learn how to tell your compelling story through your Activities List.

HOTLINE

What burning questions do you want to ask? What excellent ideas, articles, or resources our readers should know about do you have to share? Dial up the College Eagle Hotline through this easy form. We appreciate you!

ANSWER

Cam Ward from the University of Miami was the entirely unsurprising first pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. Go Canes!