Answer 1

If the college is not a good fit, it's likely the student will not be happy or comfortable. They will not feel at home which in turn, may have a negative impact on grades.

A former student of mine was accepted at Rutgers University as an early decision (ED) student. Contrary to my advice, she decided to enroll. Do not misunderstand, I love Rutgers, but this student, coming from a small, all-girls Catholic high school...well, I was not sure she was ready for a large, co-ed campus.

Within a week, she began returning home on Thursdays, heading back to campus on Mondays, and crying most days and nights. She was not socializing, was feeling lonely and isolated, and her grades dropped dramatically.

At the end of the second semester, she returned home, enrolling in a state college, and commuting each day. She finished three years later as an honor student, with friends and activities. The state school was a better college match for her. She was happier by going for the better fit or match over the name. She completed her degree at the top of her class.

It is not often about where one attends college but rather, it is about what one makes of the experience and opportunities offered.

Good Luck!

Answer 2

" Fit" is all about everything the campus has to offer a student. Food services, the classroom environment, dorm life, major and minors offered, study abroad, size of the campus and the architecture, the student body profile, the location of the campus ( urban, rural, or suburban), and distance from home. These and other factors come under the 'fit."

There is no such place as the "perfect" school or the one and only "right school." Every campus has its drawbacks, but the question is how many drawbacks and how important are they to you? Attending a school because of the name ( brand) can prove to be a mistake, because that college may be not a good "fit" or a good college match for you socially, academically, or both.

Think of it this way, would you buy a designer article of clothing that did not look good on you? But you buy it anyway because of the designer's logo on the front and you want everyone to know you have it. Keep in mind you will spend more time at college ( if you live on campus) than you will at home. "Fit" is very important for your overall college experience . Good hunting.