Yet many excellent colleges and universities award thousands of dollars in merit-based scholarships for athletic, leadership and performing arts talent as well as awards for designated areas of study. If It Fits Families need to do their own investigations rather than allowing someone else to define what is best. When you request information from the university, don't read just the slick full color promotional brochures. Contact professors, coaches, current students, etc. Request a personal interview on campus if possible, even if it is not required.
Most colleges also have E-mail addresses as well as very informative web pages.
There is no real substitute for actually visiting the college. If you are able to visit the campus, make full use of this opportunity. When planning a visit, it is preferable to go while the students are on campus in order to get the most accurate impression of the school. Summer and Christmas vacations are not good times, but holidays such as Columbus Day, Veterans Day and Election Day are good. College can be a rewarding experience both educationally and socially.