Actually, I could use one of a pair of dice, because I have six colleges to choose from. This is especially tough for me. I mean, most high school juniors right now don't have that many choices.
I guess I've done a lot of things right to be in this situation. I've picked up a few important bits of information along this journey as a senior. Some of this advice I've followed, but I also suffered somewhat by not following it. I could be mistaken, but to my knowledge, some of this info is pretty obscure, yet extremely helpful.
My first priority was to clear up the financial situation. Of course, there's the CSS Profile and FAFSA applications to rummage through and clear things up. However, three of the colleges also wanted my tax returns. Luckily, I had an episode of "The Simpsons" about the ills of tax-related apathy to help me out and urge my parents on. Mmmm... "The Simpsons"... Well, it didn't happen immediately, but with the help of my parents (and, of course, The Simpsons) my costs are well taken care of. Do this ASAP (with or without Mr. Burns).
I really took advantage of long-term contacts for information as well as for endorsement. I have developed networking possibilities in as far away as Ithaca, New York (hint, hint). It's really important for you seniors-in-training to communicate with current students, alumni, whoever. There's bound to be some alumni in the area, or if not, get logged in a network, either by computer or phone. They may play a role in getting you where you want to go.
Don't take everything at face value. That was my second-biggest mistake. This relates directly to visiting colleges, which I was only able to do once (except for one college that I visit everyday). I got lucky in March, really, really lucky, when I was among the chosen warriors destined for three nightfalls of medieval training in the realm of New York City. To stop with the Highlander/Mortal Kombat lingo, it was a awesome weekend. The bad news is that I may be biased, perhaps unfairly, toward that university, because of that trip.
If I had worked harder, vigorously calling and haggling with those college organizations and unions, maybe, just maybe, if they knew who I was, they'd be able to work out a visitation arrangement for me. Otherwise I would not know about such opportunities. Don't fret, fellow seniors, you still have a week if you're in my position. If you work at ludicrous speed, you may be able to visit your schools.
Finally, you must keep on your toes. Never procrastinate. And never practice hypocrisy through words, like I just did. Procrastination is a serious symptom of senoritis, of which many of my classmates have mild cases (you know who you are). This year, I have been the victim of many a tongue lashing by my teachers about waiting until the last minute. (I would have written an entire article about senoritis and procrastination, but I procrastinated too long.) Anyway, through my experience, waiting until the last minute is definitely not OK for those essential outside scholarship applications. That was my biggest mistake.
So now I and those like myself are left to ponder the unponderable. What do I really want? Do I like it here in Richmond, or in a land far, far away? Are computers really the way for me to go?
How about you all? As for me, I'm even considering what kind of education I might receive in five years (Grad school perhaps). Who knows, maybe then, or next year, I will take my severely troubled life northward amidst ivory towers and a certain nerd haven in which I will work as a janitor. Or is that the kind of brilliant screenplay that I want my life to emulate? I should stop this procrastination, because I have a path to choose.
Juniors, prepare yourselves. As for fellow seniors, make your decisions wisely. You'll benefit greatly in the future.