College Tip #383

If you're not sure where you're going to go to college next fall, this is a message for you.

It's going to be a long one because I want to really be clear, you're going to be great no matter where you go next year. A lot of you are agonizing over this decision because you're worried it's going to derail your life, but a college isn't going to make or break you.

In fact, you're going to experiment and you're going to experience and if it turns out to be wonderful, that's great. And if it turns out to be not wonderful, that's great because you're going to figure out what you want and where you can go, where you can get those things. So just chill out, relax, right?

It's going to be okay. In fact, it's going to be great either way. Now that you have this mindset, start to think about where are you going to hang out? Who are the people you're going to surround yourself with and where are the places to do the things that you love to do. Places are where you're going to sweat, play, pray, live, learn, lead, love, work.

Where are you going to sweat, play, pray, live, learn, lead, love, and work? And who are the people that you're going to surround yourself with? Think about that campus. Think about that community. Think about what you're going to do in the summer, in the winter, in the spring, and whatever gives you a feeling of excitement.

That's where you should go experience it and make this an experiment. And you're going to have an amazing year. I've talked to students for over 20 years who've gone through this process. And one student had the best advice. He said, “If you're not sure where you want to go, print out all your admissions notes. Print them out and then roll around on the ground, and whichever one stick to sticks to you, that's where you should go.” I know that seems ridiculous, but like, that's where you should go. If money isn't an issue, If you are equally pulled in all these different directions, and that's the place to go.

If money is the issue, go to the less expensive school, avoid the debt for sure. And if you're still concerned about this, let me know. But you know what? It's going to be okay. And it's going to be an amazing experience no matter where you go. You got it. All right, now make that decision and don't look back.

About Harlan: Harlan Cohen is a New York Times bestselling author of the #1 book on college life (The Naked Roommate). He is the creator of Best First Year, a College Success and Coaching Program for Students & Parents. His video tips and advice reach millions of students and parents  on social media.  Tap to Follow Harlan.