Common Sense and College

Common Sense and College? I know, two things that don't really go together at all. Going through the whole college process is, admittingly, wearing on the nerves. But in talking with other seniors, it is interesting how trying applying to college is for some, and how common sense is lacking in others.

College first. My application process is somewhat irregular, not extremely common. I only applied to 2 colleges, the most selective Military college in the country, and a medium sized Catholic (big C) School in Ohio. Why? Because the Military College is the Coast Guard Academy. I have loved boating since I was a little boy, and I have always had the greatest admiration for those who willingly put on the uniform to serve our country. The medium Catholic School, Franciscan University of Steubenville, because it is the best Catholic School that I know of, it will help me grow, and I have friends that are out there.

But why choose those colleges? Simple, they make sense for me. I love the military and the water, yet am not too cracked up about shipping out to war in some other country, the Coast Guard is almost the perfect fit for that. I am a devout Catholic, and I am always looking to grow in my faith with friends who share the same faith. With a respectable educational program, it also makes sense for me.

But in talking with other students, I have to wonder, why do they choose to apply to the school that they did? Unfortunately, most students say either because it looks good, or their parents want them to go there. While both are good reasons, it scares me that almost no one says because it is a school that not only supports my values and point of view, and it works for me. Students are selecting schools today not based on how the school with work with them and develop them into what they want to become, but how that school will either make my parents happy, or will only look good in the future.

To me, it would be a common sensedecision to go to a school that works for you now and in the future, but maybe I am wrong. But I think not.