How to Craft the Perfect College Wish List

It’s an exciting time — you’ve started your college search!

You’ve visited college websites, watched dozens of virtual tours, attended webinars, and maybe even visited a few campuses.

But have you created a college wish list? Because there’s more to it than the dining options and dorm room sizes (although those are important, too!). What are your must-haves? What’s negotiable?

Today, our admissions team is helping you craft the perfect college wish list, starting with these 5 things:

Location

Do you want to be close to home, or are you looking for a change of scenery? Do you want a school that’s far enough from home to give you a new start, but close enough that you could easily get home when needed?

Also, consider the climate, the size of the community, and its proximity to your interests. For example, if you’re into the great outdoors, you might want a school with easy access to outdoor activities.

Class and Campus Size

Are you looking for a more intimate college experience, or would you prefer the hustle and bustle of a large campus?

Some students prefer a smaller class size so they can have a more personal connection with their professors and peers. Larger universities might not be able to offer that experience — especially for first- and second-year students.

Campus Life

Do you want to be involved in campus clubs, organizations, and/or Greek life? If you’re involved in clubs or sports in high school, and you want to continue that involvement, be sure to add them to your college wish list.

(And remember, you don’t have to be an all-star athlete to participate in sports! Many colleges and universities, including Mercer, offer intramural sports.)

Community Feel

It’s important to consider the community you’re moving to.

Are there opportunities for you to get involved locally? Are there things to do off campus? You’ll likely live there for at least four years, so be sure to love it.

Service

If you’re looking to make a difference on campus, in the community, and in the world, be sure to include “service opportunities” on your wish list. College is a great time to learn the value of community service and making a difference.

With programs like Mercer On Mission, international service and education is integral to the Mercer experience.

Our biggest piece of advice? Don’t compromise on what you want. Choosing a college or university is a big decision, so be honest with yourself.

Remember: While you’ll want a place where you can fit in, your dream school should also help you stand out! If you’re looking for a school to help you grow both academically and through leadership experience, Mercer might be the right fit for you!

Interested in learning about Mercer? Explore our website.