From Admission Advisors: Advice on Making the Big Decision

Choosing a college is one of the most exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, decisions you’ll make. With so many options, it’s easy to focus on rankings, reputations, or advice from others. But at the heart of it, this journey is about discovering where you feel most at home. The right college isn’t necessarily the most prestigious one; it’s the place where you feel supported, challenged, and inspired to grow—both in the classroom and beyond. This is about more than academics; it’s about finding a community where you can be yourself and imagine the future you’re building. Hear from six of Emory’s Admission Advisors on their advice for making the big decision.

 

“Choosing your college isn’t about finding the “best” school — it’s about finding the right fit for you. Pay attention to where you feel most comfortable being yourself, where you feel supported, and where you can imagine growing — not just academically, but personally. The right place won’t be perfect, but it will feel like possibility. Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do.”

-Stacey Towler, Director of New Student Engagement

 

 

“Take a deep breath — this is the beginning of a wonderful adventure, not the final destination. Wherever you choose, dive in with an open heart: explore new paths, be fully present, and don’t be afraid to branch out beyond what feels familiar. College is not just about the classes you take, but the people you meet and the stories you create. Trust yourself — you’ve already done so much more than you realize!”

-Sarbeth J. Fleming, Senior Associate Dean/Director of Onboarding

 

“No doubt you have many great choices in front of you, and what ends up feeling like home may actually look very different than what you were expecting when you first started applying to schools. Be open to being surprised along the way! Ask questions – not just about what you’ll learn, but how you’ll learn. Ask current students about more than just their major – find out what surprised them, how they’ve grown as a leader and a learner, and who they turn to for support on campus. This is a wonderful (and chaotic!) journey…be sure to take a moment to show gratitude to the folks that helped get you here!”

-Rashmi Anand, Associate Dean of Admission

 

“If you have the opportunity, make the most of what college campuses offer prospective students—sit in on classes, talk with faculty and staff, meet current students, and take part in things like summer programs. These experiences will help you picture what your day-to-day life on campus would be like.”

-Katie Phenix, Admission Advisor

 

“The best school “fit” for you is the one that “feels” right. The look, name, or reputation of a college isn’t nearly as important as the network you build while you’re there—and you’ll build a much stronger network if you’re comfortable enough to show up as yourself from the moment you arrive.”

-Kailey Graziotto, Admission Advisor

 

“Choose the school where you think you will be happiest and most comfortable. You will find your place academically if you feel supported socially.”

-Chandler West, Admission Advisor

 

 

Learn More

No matter where you end up, remember that this choice is just the beginning of your journey—not the end. Trust yourself, stay open, and know that you’re capable of creating something meaningful wherever you go.

To hear admission advice from students, read our blog post here.

For more information on Emory Admission, visit our website, join our mailing list, or visit our Instagram page.