College Planning: A Holistic Approach to Making Informed Choices

Planning for college is one of the most important decisions in a young person’s life. While academic records and test scores have long been central to the process, many educators, counselors, and families are shifting toward a more holistic approach. This perspective considers the student's full experience—academic goals, personal interests, well-being, social environment, and financial resources.

Rather than viewing college admissions as a competitive race, holistic planning encourages students to think deeply about what they want from their college years—and life beyond them.

Why Start College Planning Early?

Starting early gives students more time to explore interests, build meaningful experiences, and reflect on what matters most to them. When planning begins in the later years of high school, students often feel rushed, which can lead to choices based more on outside pressures than personal fit.

Beginning as early as middle school allows students to:

• Discover subjects and activities that genuinely interest them
• Build a strong and authentic extracurricular profile
• Learn to manage time and set priorities
• Reduce last-minute stress during the application process

This gradual exploration is not about “getting ahead” but about making more intentional, informed decisions.

What Does Holistic College Planning Involve?

A holistic approach looks at the student as a whole, beyond quantitative measures. It invites reflection on personal identity, learning preferences, goals, and environment.

Some key factors include:

• Academic Alignment: Does the college offer the intended major? How flexible is the curriculum?
• Social Fit: Will the student feel comfortable and included in the campus culture?
• Learning Style: Does the student prefer small discussion-based classes or large lectures?
• Location and Size: Urban vs. rural? Large university vs. small liberal arts college?
• Values and Goals: What kind of community does the student want to be part of? What matters most to them?

This broader perspective encourages students to think about college not just as the next step, but as part of a longer-term journey.

How Important Are Test Scores and Grades?

While still important, especially at selective institutions, standardized test scores and GPAs are just one part of the application. Increasingly, colleges are placing more weight on:

• Personal essays
• Letters of recommendation
• Extracurricular engagement
• Demonstrated interest
• Background and context
• Contributions to the community

Many schools have adopted test-optional or test-blind policies, which allow students to choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores. This shift emphasizes the importance of telling a clear and authentic story throughout the application.

Understanding the Role of Financial Planning

Finances play a significant role in the college decision process. Planning ahead can make a substantial difference in reducing student loan debt and increasing affordability.

Key financial planning steps include:

• Estimating college costs using tools like the Net Price Calculator
• Researching merit-based and need-based scholarships
• Exploring public vs. private school options
• Learning about FAFSA, CSS Profile, and other financial aid forms
• Discussing family financial expectations early in the process

Cost should never be the only factor, but understanding it early helps families make more grounded choices.

What Can Students Do Outside the Classroom?

Colleges want to understand what students care about and how they spend their time. That doesn’t mean doing everything—it means doing a few things well.

When considering extracurriculars, students should think about:

• What activities feel meaningful and enjoyable?
• Are there opportunities for leadership or collaboration?
• Can their interests lead to deeper exploration, such as research or projects?
• How do these activities reflect their character or growth?

Authenticity matters more than quantity. A student who commits deeply to one or two interests often leaves a stronger impression than one who spreads themselves too thin.

Finding the Right Fit

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “What’s the best college?” The right college is the one where a student can grow, explore, and feel supported.

To assess fit, students can:

• Visit campuses (or take virtual tours)
• Talk to current students and alumni
• Read course catalogs and departmental pages
• Reflect on what environments help them thrive

Fit involves academic offerings, yes—but also campus culture, support services, and long-term opportunities.

Final Thoughts: College Planning as Personal Growth

At its best, college planning isn’t just about getting into college—it’s about learning how to make big life decisions thoughtfully and responsibly. The process encourages students to reflect, communicate, and imagine a future that aligns with who they are.

By approaching college planning holistically, students and families can reduce unnecessary stress and focus on what really matters: building a meaningful and sustainable path forward.