You Got Into College. Now What?

You did it! The college application journey has finally come to an end. Now you have a decision to make before May 1. What school will you be attending? Decision day is just the first exciting step of many as you step into the role of a rising College Freshman. Let’s talk about what’s next!

girl celebrating college- college decision

1. Review Your Options

Maybe your answer is easy. Maybe it feels like the hardest decision of your life! Envision every aspect of what your experience would be at each college you are deciding between. Take into account majors and minors, student life, and your financial aid packages. Maybe you want to sneak in a last round of campus visits!

Really stuck? Make a pros and cons list! Or read our blog on How to Choose the Right College for You.

2. Accept and Decline

Once you have made your decision, you must formally accept your position at your school of choice. This requires making a deposit.

After making your deposit, you must decline the other schools you were accepted to. These colleges chose you out of many, so it is essential to politely decline!

3. Send Your Transcript

Colleges will need your complete high school transcript with your graduation date clearly listed. Hopefully you were able to keep your grades up over the rest of Senior Year! But don’t worry— colleges mainly need transcripts as proof that you successfully graduated.

4. Logistics

After accepting, your school will send you a lot of logistical tasks to take care of. This may include:

  • Setting up accounts (email, portals, etc.)

  • Confirming your financial aid package

  • Selecting your meal plan and housing

  • Selecting your health insurance (If you are sticking to a family plan, you will likely have to choose to waive the school’s health insurance.)

  • Payments and fees

Stay on top of the logistics so that all is smooth sailing when you get to campus!

college friends talking

5. Sign Up for Orientation

Orientation is a really fun week— you’ll start to get comfortable with your school and meet some fellow students! Make sure you sign up and stay on top of dates so that you don’t miss out.

Additionally, some schools have really cool pre-orientation programs. Maybe you’ll go on a sea kayaking trip, or engage in a service project! Pre-O’s are a great way to make friends before arriving on campus.

6. Take Placement Tests

“Ugh, I have to take tests while on summer vacation?!” Alas, many colleges require that students take placement tests so that everyone ends up in their properly-leveled course.

Many times these tests are virtual, but sometimes these tests take place in person during orientation. Either way, they are typically not too painful!

7. Find a Roommate!

Ah, here’s the fun part! Now’s the time to take to social media or your school’s roommate search platform and talk to some potential roommates!

Even if you end up talking to a few options before you find “the one,” beginning to talk with fellow students is a great way to connect with the student body before your arrival on campus.

Still need help with your college decision?

We are here and happy to help! Feel free to contact us, and we’ll talk you through any of your worries, questions, or insecurities. Congrats on being accepted, and on starting your college journey!

Nicole Albanese