[jcommin]

I did this last year for my youngest son. His high school had a very good college placement department. They helped him select schools that fit his GPA and his interests. His mother and I narrowed this list to small liberal art schools in the Midwest. We also developed a long range plan if his interest remained unchanged. The HS helped my son with interviews, letter writing and set up appointments for visitations. Their involvement reduced the stress if we had done it ourselves. From the narrowed list, my son picked a school, Beloit College, he now attends. He did get a scholarship, a reduction in tuition. He funded $10K of the tuition, skin in the game. When he graduates, we will pay the $10K. If he decides to opt out, the loan is his. He graduated HS in December (early) and went to a local community college as most schools won't take incoming freshman in the spring term. The community college was a good experience as he got a taste of the differences between college and HS. He was prepared for the college experience when he went to Beloit for the fall semester.

So far, he is committed to staying there 2 years. His focus has changed too.

Another lesson learned: most, if not all freshman major in "I don't know or I changed my mind".

Good luck!