What Most Families Overlook When Building a College List

 Here’s a secret no one talks about: building a smart college list is part strategy, part self-awareness, and part detective work.

Most families focus on:

  • Reputation

  • Location

  • Major

But what they miss can lead to frustration, missed opportunities, or worse—ending up at a school that just doesn’t work out.

What to Dig Into (That’s Not on the Homepage):

  • Retention rate: Are students staying after freshman year?

  • Support programs: Are there dedicated programs for first-gen students, students with learning differences, or those navigating mental health challenges?

  • Merit aid strategy: Does the school reward academic effort—or only need-based aid?

  • Advising & career planning: Is there a clear path from major to job/internship?

I guide students through this deeper research in Phase I so that they’re not just applying to the “usual” schools—but to schools that actually fit.

➡️ Not sure how to dig deeper or where to start?
That’s where I come in. Reach out to schedule a consult and see if Phase I is right for your family.

A thoughtful, well-researched list is one of the most important steps in the college process—and it sets everything else up for success.
If you’re ready to build a smart, personalized list with guidance at every step, I’d love to connect.
📬 Email highperformanceacademics@gmail.com, call/text 847-309-2777, or visit www.highperformanceacademics.com to learn more.
—Dr. Jill | High Performance Academics

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