The Importance of Expanding Your College Search Beyond the Familiar-Research, Research, Listen to These Podcasts

As families of college-bound teens, it’s easy to get wrapped up in considering only the schools you’ve heard of, or the geographically close ones. But in today’s competitive and evolving college admissions landscape, you should broaden your horizons and explore a range of schools you may not have initially considered. By doing so, you may discover hidden gems that offer incredible opportunities for your student. Remember, you don’t know what you don’t know. And they don’t know anything but what they have seen on TV, heard on the sidelines, where they have family or friend connections, etc. Do not fall for “I heard that….” research for yourself.

Why Look Beyond the Familiar?

Many families focus on a shortlist of well-known schools or those within a certain distance from home. While this is understandable, it’s important to realize that the “best” college isn’t always the most famous or closest one. Researching schools that you may not have heard of, or that aren’t in your backyard, can reveal excellent academic programs, unique campus cultures, and scholarship opportunities that might be a perfect fit for your teen. Now, if budget is a concern, your state universities will almost always be the best price for your family. Believe me, we have great state schools across this country, so don’t get stuck on crossing state lines to find fulfillment.

Here are a few ways to explore these lesser-known options:

Podcasts: A Gateway to College Exploration

Listening to interviews with admissions counselors and directors from a variety of colleges is an excellent way to get insider perspectives on what makes these schools stand out. A colleague John Durante with www.collegeadmissionstalk.com recently had the pleasure of interviewing representatives from three fantastic schools:

University of Vermont – Christopher Perlongo, Associate Director of Admissions 🍁
Learn about UVM’s unique programs, vibrant campus life, and what makes this northeastern university a great option for students looking for a balance between academic rigor and a welcoming community.
- University of Vermont with Christopher Perlongo 🍁 Listen here
University of Washington – Alex Hall, Admissions Counselor 🌲
Hear from Alex Hall about the University of Washington’s diverse academic offerings, its prominent location in the Pacific Northwest, and how UW fosters innovation and research across all disciplines
- University of Washington with Alex Hall 🌲 Listen here
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) – Jon Wexler, VP of Enrollment ⚙️
RPI is renowned for its focus on science, technology, and engineering. In this interview, Jon Wexler discusses how RPI is shaping the next generation of innovators and how its hands-on approach to learning is ideal for students with an interest in STEM fields.
- RPI with Jon Wexler ⚙️ Listen here
If you love these podcasts, you can find more here: AN ALPHABETICAL LIST OF COLLEGE PODCASTS

Virtual Tours and Social Media: Exploring from Home

In today’s digital age, exploring colleges from home is easier than ever. Colleges have embraced virtual tours, allowing you to experience their campuses without having to leave your living room. These tours provide a great sense of the layout, facilities, and atmosphere of the school. Head over to your CounselMore portal and the VIRTUAL TOUR link is in the list view. Not a client, we can help you build a list and use our system. CLICK HERE

In addition, follow colleges on social media. Schools often post updates about campus life, events, and student achievements, giving you a real-time look at what life is like on campus. It’s an easy way to get a feel for the culture and community before committing to an in-person visit.

In-Person Visits: Still an Important Step

While virtual tours and podcasts provide valuable insights, nothing replaces the feeling of being on campus. If possible, plan to visit a few schools in person to get a real sense of their environment. Walk around, sit in on a class, and talk to current students to truly experience what each college has to offer. It is super important to book an official visit and tour. You simply cannot get the whole story by visiting and walking around. The official events will connect you with people who can answer your questions and students who will tell you the “real deal”.

Deep Dive into Majors and Programs

Don’t forget to look closely at the specific majors and programs each school offers. You may be surprised to find that a smaller or lesser-known school has a program that aligns perfectly with your teen’s career interests. Schools that specialize in certain fields often provide resources, internships, and connections that larger, more generalized institutions may not. Do not overlook special programs within universities. How do you find these? Start with our friend GOOGLE and if you are confused about what your strengths may be and what major may be good for you, we can do the HIGHLANDS ABILITY BATTERY to help you with some self-discovery.

Expanding Your Search Opens New Doors- (THE USUAL SUSPECTS…great movie, not a great college search plan)

By exploring schools outside of the usual suspects, you’re setting your teen up for success in the college admissions process. Whether it’s through podcasts, virtual tours, social media, or in-person visits, there are so many ways to learn about colleges that might offer the perfect fit.

Take the time to explore. You never know what opportunities you’ll find! Contact us: [email protected] or 443-220-5750

: We can help you build your college list- academically, socially, geographically and FINANCIALLY