How Choosing the Right College is Like a Coloring Book

With nearly 4,000 colleges and universities in the U.S., it's no surprise that families often feel overwhelmed by the college application process. Questions like "What colleges should my child apply to?" or "How many is too many?" are common—and understandable. The sheer volume of choices can make even the most organized families feel like they're trying to solve a puzzle without the picture on the box.

That's why I often compare the college search process to something familiar, creative, and even a little fun: a coloring book.

The Outline is There—But the Picture Isn't Finished

Just like a coloring book provides a structure with its outlines, the college admissions landscape offers a framework: reach, target, and safety schools; academic programs; financial aid; and geographic preferences. But the final picture—your child's college experience—isn't complete until they fill it in with their unique goals, passions, and identity. No two students will color on the same page the same way, and that's precisely how it should be.

Every Student Has Their Own Palette

Each student approaches the process with a mix of talents, interests, values, and academic profiles. Some will opt for bold, conventional choices, while others will think outside the lines. The key is to select schools that reflect your child's personal palette—not someone else's idea of what looks good. A well-built college list should feel authentic, not forced.

Don't Just Stick to the First Few Pages

In a coloring book, it's tempting to focus only on the first pages—the most visible or familiar ones. Likewise, many students apply only to big-name schools or local options they've heard of. But often, the best-fit schools are the ones you discover later in the search—the "hidden gems" that align more closely with your child's interests, learning style, and personality. A thoughtful research process opens the door to opportunities you may not have initially considered.

Balance and Intentionality Lead to Better Outcomes

Over-coloring a page or randomly throwing colors around rarely yields a satisfying result—and neither does applying to 25+ schools without a clear strategy. A better approach is to curate a balanced college list of about 10–12 schools comprising safety, target, and reach options. Each school should be one your child would genuinely be excited to attend. Quality beats quantity every time.

Some Tools Are More Expensive Than Others—But There Are Alternatives

Like some art supplies cost more, college sticker prices can vary dramatically. But just as you don't need the most expensive markers to create a beautiful picture, your child doesn't need to attend the priciest school to have a great college experience. Many top private schools offer generous financial aid, and many public universities provide merit scholarships. Understanding the actual cost of attendance—and what kind of aid your family may be eligible for—is critical to building a realistic and affordable college list.

The Final Picture Should Feel Like Theirs

The best coloring book pages are the ones the artist feels proud of. The same holds for college decisions. The goal isn't to impress others; it's to find a school where your child will thrive academically, socially, and personally. The "best" college is where your child feels supported, challenged, and inspired to grow.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a college can feel like navigating a maze. Still, it's also an opportunity to create something meaningful by taking a thoughtful, balanced, and personalized approach—much like filling in the pages of a coloring book. Your family can turn what may feel like an overwhelming process into a journey of discovery and intentional decision-making.

After all, every student deserves a college experience that reflects their true colors.