With apologies to Socrates, knowing thyself is easier said than done. Most high school students can analyze a differential equation or a Shakespearean play with the greatest of ease, but when it comes to cataloging their own strengths, weaknesses, likes, and dislikes, many draw a blank. But self-knowledge is crucial to the matching process at the heart of a successful college search. Our 30-item survey offers a simple way to get a handle on some critical issues in college selection - and what sort of college may fit your preferences.

Print the following form. In the space beside each statement, rate your feelings on a scale of 1 to 10.
10 = Strongly Agree, 1 = Strongly Disagree, and 5 = Not Sure/Don't Have Strong Feelings.

When you're done, click the "Grading Yourself" button to find out what it all means.

____ 1) I enjoy participating in many activities.

____ 2) I would like to have a prominent place in my community.

____ 3) Individual attention from teachers is important to me.

____ 4) I learn best when I can speak out in class and ask questions.

____ 5) I am undecided about what I will study.

____ 6) I want to earn a Ph.D. in my chosen field of study.

____ 7) I learn best by listening and writing what I hear.

____ 8) I would like to be in a place where I can be anonymous if I choose.

____ 9) I prefer devoting my time to one or two activities rather than many.

____ 10) I want to attend a college that most people have heard of.

____ 11) I am interested in a career-oriented major.

____ 12) I like to be on my own.

____ 13) I prefer a college in a warm or hot climate.

____ 14) I prefer a college in a cool or cold climate.

____ 15) I want to be near the mountains.

____ 16) I want to be near a lake or ocean.

____ 17) I prefer to attend a college in a particular state or region.

____ 18) I prefer to attend a college near to my family.

____ 19) I want city life within walking distance of my campus.

____ 20) I want city life within driving distance of my campus.

____ 21) I want my campus to be surrounded by natural beauty.

____ 22) I like to be surrounded by people who are free-thinkers and nonconformists.

____ 23) I like the idea of joining a fraternity or sorority.

____ 24) I like rubbing shoulders with people who are bright and talented.

____ 25) I like being one of the smartest people in my class.

____ 26) I want to go to a prestigious college.

____ 27) I want to go to a college where I can get an excellent education.

____ 28) I want to try for an academic scholarship.

____ 29) I want a college with as much diversity as possible.

____ 30) I want a college where the students are serious about ideas.

GRADING YOURSELF