It's tempting to let a number define where your student should go to college. Rankings are everywhere, and they promise something reassuring: a simple, objective way to measure quality. But here's the truth that often gets lost in the noise: the "best" college for your student isn't necessarily the one at the top of a list. It's the one where they'll thrive, grow, and find their path forward. When building a college list, think about it this way: student success has far more

Nearly all first-year college students encounter a few surprises as they adjust to college life. Understanding the most common challenges...