Justin - University of Georgia - Class of 2013

In the end, the economic crisis sabotaged some of my acceptances. My aid packages were less than I expected and one scholarship offer was actually reduced. Plus, my family is totally against any loans. I ended up choosing an in-state university. Overall, I am happy with my decision but I wish there could have been more—another acceptance or a bit more gift aid.

Why my college list grew rapidly

I toured at least 20 colleges, from safety backups to the Ivy League. I really did not know what I was looking for. If I liked a campus on my visit, I would apply. I chose some colleges in Georgia because of the HOPE scholarship available to state residents. Otherwise, I had absolutely no idea where I wanted to attend.

Nearly every weekend I would knock out yet another application essay and revisit another. I continued to bolster my SAT and ACT scores up until the end of fall semester senior year. Finally, in December, I was completely done. I honestly did not know what to do with all my newfound free time!

I was accepted to half of the schools I applied to. I ran into a problem, however. I need more money to make college affordable for me and my family. So I picked the two colleges giving me the most aid and flipped a coin. University of Georgia won. I still am not totally sure if I chose the right college.

Why I plan to not have a plan

I didn't really have any goals heading into high school and I suppose I'm going into college the same way—just to have fun and experience all I can. I never planned to become the vice president of my high school, or copy editor of the yearbook. It just fell into place as I strove to do my best. I hope the same thing will happen to me over the next four years. I plan on having fun and excelling in the classroom, and then everything else, along with my major, will hopefully materialize.

My ups and downs

The biggest disappointment was having to turn down some great schools due to financial concerns. Even though I got aid from those colleges and some private scholarships, the aid didn't even begin to make a difference in the tuition at those colleges. Perhaps in two years I'll apply to those schools as a transfer. Never lock yourself into a corner years in advance, I say.

The most challenging aspect of my college application experience was the many essays I was required to write. However, this experience was also satisfying. I met the challenge head-on and relished in it. I love to write and enjoy even the most tedious of topics.

What I learned

I found it best to tackle essays and other application requirements over an extended period of time for each school, even dedicating two or three Sundays to a particular school. That way, I was able to reassess my writing and tone to determine if I was answering all the questions, hitting all the key points, and keeping a positive vibe. If you blow it all out in a few hours you might make mistakes. You will never see those mistakes if you don't go back with a clear mind and double-check a week or so later.

The money factor

I received the Georgia HOPE scholarship and a couple of private scholarships, so at this point I do not believe I am actually paying anything for college!