WOODBURY — It’s that time of year when most seniors have made their college decisions and are committed to their next choice in life. For most, this is a tedious and nerve-wracking thing to do, as pressure can be huge, and the opinion of others such as friends and family could affect the decision that a student makes.

College tuition alone is very overwhelming for one to comprehend, let alone the choice of what to do for the next four years of life. Kathy Green, Nonnewaug’s College and Career Resource Center counselor, understands this challenging chapter in the lives of NHS students. 

“When acceptances come in from school, there are many pieces that go into making that final decision,” said Green. “It is a big commitment and most students go in hoping to make the right choice for their next four years. Giving thoughtful consideration is very important.”

The choice can also be impacted by the school location as well as the cost. For a lot of seniors with dream schools in mind, the choices are endless and necessary funds are astronomically high. 

“It was really hard deciding how far I wanted to go and how I would adjust to a new lifestyle, and expenses were a huge thing for me,” said senior Kyle Viveros, who will attend Penn State University. “The distance was a huge difference between the two colleges, but I chose to go to the one I loved, because it just felt right.” 

As referred to as the “six F’s,” family, financials, fellowships, future, focus, and the feeling, are important keys seniors use to judge whether this college will be their future home. 

Senior Sara Norton, who will be attending Quinnipiac this fall, understands this as well as anyone. 

“Finding a school which had everything I wanted, like hockey, Greek life, and my major, occupational therapy, and the 4+2 doctoral program as well was really important to me,” Norton said. “Staying close to home also helped financial expenses as well.”