For Seniors: It’s The Home Stretch

Admissions Beat

In this week’s episode of Admissions Beat, Dartmouth Dean of Admissions Lee Coffin speaks directly to those high school seniors who still have a college decision to make. “A big decision,” as he puts it. As the May 1 deadline draws near, Dean Coffin offers students (and parents, too) more than a dozen, gut-check questions that, when taken as a whole, comprise a checklist for the final countdown to enrollment. Some of those questions are pragmatic (To what degree will affordability be the deciding factor?) Others are academic (What about the faculty and resources they offer?) Still, others verge on the metaphysical (Can you imagine yourself being happy?) Dean Coffin also seeks to instill confidence. “Whatever sweatshirt you ultimately pull on,’’ he advises, "know that it's your choice, it's a good fit, and embrace it.”