Choosing a college is one of the biggest decisions you’ve made so far. You spent months (or years!) researching, applying, and waiting for those acceptance letters. But what happens when you finally get to campus and find yourself asking: “Did I pick the right school?”
One student recently wrote in with this exact worry:
“I keep wondering if I picked the right school. Everyone else seems so confident about their choice, but I still feel unsure. Is that normal?”
The short answer: Yes! It’s very normal. Doubts don’t mean you chose wrong; they usually mean you’re adjusting. Here’s how to put those feelings into perspective:
1. Remember: No School Is Perfect
Every college has its pros and cons. Just because you notice things that don’t feel like a perfect fit doesn’t mean you made the wrong choice. What matters most is how you make the experience your own.
2. Focus on What You Can Control
While you can’t change the size of the campus or the city it’s in, you can choose your classes, the clubs you join, and the friendships you nurture. Building out your own community within the school can make it feel more “yours.”
3. Give Yourself Time
Adjustment looks different for everyone. Some people find their place quickly, while others take a semester (or more) to feel settled. Don’t compare your timeline to anyone else’s—confidence in your choice often grows over time.
4. Talk It Out
If your doubts feel heavy, don’t keep them bottled up. Talking to an advisor, an RA, or even a friend can help. Sometimes saying “I’m not sure I made the right choice” out loud is the first step toward easing the worry.
5. Growth Happens in Uncertainty
There isn’t one “perfect” school. What matters is how you use the opportunities in front of you. Remember: questioning your path doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong one—it means you’re paying attention.