BY CAITLIN LAFLOWER
As each new school year begins, many Old Bridge seniors start their college applications. After the daunting process of researching schools to apply to and anxiously waiting for admission decision updates, finally choosing where to enroll may overwhelm students unsure of what qualities to prioritize in their commitment for the next few years.
Stephen Davies, who committed to the University of Houston for Political Science and Pre-Law, prioritized degree programs during his application process. “The degree I’m pursuing is the 3+3 JD. I’d be able to do undergrad & law school in six years instead of the traditional seven,” said Davies. Accelerated programs, such as the one Davies enrolled in, provide students an opportunity to complete their degree quicker and for a lower cost than traditional schooling.
Jake Tenebruso enrolled in Hofstra University’s Zarb School of Business for Finance and focused on academic rigor. Academic rigor allows students to challenge themselves while receiving a quality education. “I was looking for a business school with a strong finance curriculum, taught by experienced faculty who are active participants in the financial industry,” explained Tenebruso. “The Zarb School of Business stood out to me as it is ranked as one of the top business schools in the country that provides many opportunities for getting real world experience.”
Nathan Pitts committed to SUNY Purchase for Music Studio Production and held proximity to New York City as one of his main priorities. “Proximity to NYC was so important to me because I wish to grow my career in music there,” shared Pitts. “I’d like to be an artist too and have the production skills to help me to fall back on if that doesn’t work out.”
Davies also considered location while researching schools. “Where I decided to go to college would be where I’d live for most of my life, so I wanted to be in a location I could see myself at long term,” said Davies. “I was looking at the job market for lawyers, more specifically corporate attorneys, and saw how well the pay and job availability was there.”
Tenebruso thought about career advancement while choosing his college. Opportunities for career advancement allow students to gain a head start and job experience prior to graduating and joining the work force. “I sought a university with strong internship pipelines, established connections in major industries, and career services that are deeply committed to the success of the student,” said Tenebruso. “Zarb’s ties to major financial institutions in New York City and its closeknit alumni group gives me confidence that I’ll be supported in building professional connections, networking, and obtaining the necessary exposure to real world finances.”
Madison Carroll, who committed to Rowan University for Communications, emphasized involved arts programs. Schools that have lively performing arts programs allow students to find community and continue pursuing activities unrelated to their degrees. “I wanted to go someplace where I knew I could continue my passion and that there would be others like me who enjoyed the arts as much as I do,” shared Carroll. Caroll intends to participate in theater at Rowan alongside her studies.
Pitts considered campus sizes prior to committing to SUNY Purchase. Researching campus sizes and teacher to student ratios gives applicants an idea of what they might experience in classes and living there. Some students do not mind large lecture halls, but others thrive in small classroom settings. “I was looking for a campus that was somewhat small, which I realized is what I wanted after I visited Montclair University,” said Pitts. “Their campus was massive to me, which I didn’t like. I couldn’t give a reason as to what threw me off about it, I just knew it wasn’t for me.”
Touring campuses also aided in Carroll’s decision to attend Rowan. Signing up for tours allows applicants to envision themselves attending the school and ask current students questions they could not find answers to online. “I committed when I got home from the tour. I absolutely loved the campus and everybody’s positive attitude,” said Carroll.
Ultimately, everyone has different priorities during the application and decision process, and applicants should find schools that align with their interests so they can have the best college experience.
Posted on 5/27/25
Photos by Caitlin LaFlower
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