By Patti Brugman

Now that your dreams of global power have subsided, are feeling closer to being ready? Fear has set in.  What if you make the wrong decision? What if your parents can’t afford it?  What if your parents have to move to pay for your decision?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           (This is a family matter.  Have an honest decision with the folks.  What do they see as best for you?)

What if you hate the weather?

Have you ever been skiing before?  Do you own a coat? Are your curious about other people, their prejudices and customs? Do you want to travel? Sometimes the thought of an airline flight a couple of times a year is part of the magic of going away to school.

Are you home body?  Is this a good thing, or something that needs to be changed?  Are you ready for real life? Do you need your parents for some reason, do they need you for some reason?

Can you go to school locally and still have your space? This is about learning, but it’s about growing up too. Make a deal with the folks.  

What if you hate the other kids?

When we talk about a “perfect fit” we aren’t saying that there is just one school for you.  In fact, we’re even okay for some compromise.  The perfect school not be perfect at first glance.  Maybe there are some aspects that you find challenging.  Our suggestion is to consider your personality.  Is this the time to “go for it.”  Is now the time to challenge yourself to adapt?  If so, the wilder the better.  Maine is gorgeous in the fall and spring.  The rest of the year will motivate you!  The South may not be as Southern as you were thinking, but go ahead and speak with an accent just to get the whole experience.  And Texas—did you know that they sometimes consider seceding from the Union, even now?  So get ready for some ribbing.  Can you handle it!  You bet.  You were, after all, accepted!