Look, it might not be the smartest thing to choose a school based on your astrological sign. In fact, we definitely do not recommend basing your college list on an astrological sign. But it’s really hard to make a college list. There are so many options out there (more than 5,000 by some counts!) that you can feel overwhelmed. So we thought, why not use something fun to illustrate how you might help kickstart your list?
When we help students construct college lists, we focus on academic viability, program fit, and social/cultural fit, amongst other things. Although we do not consider astrology a serious consideration for college selection, this is a case study of how one might form a college list if they are someone who prioritizes authenticity and passion; someone in search of open-minded people who aren’t afraid of a good debate. So if you’re a Sagittarius, or someone who identifies with these character traits, here’s a list of schools that will feel so true to you.
NYU
Do you dream of bright lights, big city, but make it studious? Then NYU might be the perfect school for you. Known as a global university, NYU’s diverse array of programs, schools, and colleges have just about everything you are looking to learn. For those of you who just *have* to think outside the box, create your own major at the Gallatin School of Individualized Study. And if you’re really feeling like you wanna get going with your fast-paced adult life, then sign up for one of NYU’s tens of thousands of internships. Finally, for the travel-obsessed, NYU has universities, schools, and programs all over the world. You can apply to their full 4-year programs in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, or spend a semester at one of their global programs in Paris, Berlin, Prague, and beyond.
Wesleyan University
If you’ve ever been called blunt for taking the reins in a class discussion, Wesleyan might be your school. A self-proclaimed “diverse, energetic liberal arts community where critical thinking and practical idealism go hand in hand,” Wesleyan is the perfect home for those seeking an exciting small campus experience. The hyper-creative community in Middletown, Connecticut is bustling with student activity. Wesleyan academics are all about flexibility and curiosity, with 45 expansive majors to choose from and no core requirements, making it a great option if you don’t love rules and restrictions.
USC
Located in a city almost as sunny as your personality, University of Southern California is a top private research university, with programs in arts and sciences, engineering, public policy, and more. And for the artistically inclined, nurture your inner popstar at the acclaimed Thorton School of Music. USC’s 229 acre campus holds 2 museums, 16 libraries, and over 200 research facilities. USC is the quintessential work-hard/play-hard school, so feel free to build a robot by day and cheer on your football team at night. USC is a wonderful place for your outgoing personality to thrive.
University of Michigan
USC not social enough for you? Ok, we give you: University of Michigan. Michigan is well known for its vibrant social scene while remaining an internationally respected university with a vigorous academic program. Between 14 schools and colleges, from urban planning to nursing, students are given all the tools they need for success in the adult world. For our more Type A students who gravitate towards leadership, you will find a path to success in Michigan’s Business career pathway. And for our travelers, Michigan has one of the world’s leading study abroad programs. Their Global Engagement and Education Abroad program helps students plan study, work, and volunteer-based travel that will enrich their futures and perspectives.
Brown
You’re independent. You’re self-led. You’re ~*unique*~. If this sounds like you and you have the grades to match (remember: academic viability), this Ivy League school might be the perfect fit. Located in charming Providence, Rhode Island, Brown is famous for innovative ideas and problem solving. Espousing academic freedom, Brown students are able to design their own academic track with no core requirements with its Open Curriculum. Calling students “The Architect of Your Own Education”, Brown trusts students to devise their own study plan with advisors from their 80-plus academic concentrations. Boredom will never strike your heart at this exciting and challenging university.
University of Texas at Austin
Swipe your bow and arrow for a cowboy’s whip, Sagittarius, it's Texas time! Smack in the honky-tonk, heart-pumping city of Austin, this big campus experience has over 170 fields of study in over 13 colleges and schools destined to keep you engaged. Nicknamed the Forty Acres for its sprawling grounds, UT is the perfect combination of campus and urban life and offers a killer study abroad program. Texas Global offers extensive guidance and scholarships to maximize your study abroad experience. With over 400 programs in 100 countries, including international internships, UT can definitely help you find your two-step into international travel.
Tulane
Located in what might be the most fun city in the US, New Orleans, Tulane promises lifelong friends and top-tier academics. TIDES, the Tulane Interdisciplinary Experience Seminar, brings together first-year students with faculty to learn about the history and culture of its historic city. Tulane’s unique combination of large research university resources and small liberal arts community creates an open-minded and curious campus. Students choose between 5 undergraduate schools which all together encompass their 75+ majors. Two major pillars of a Tulane education are public service and study abroad, so you can satisfy all of your change & travel the world impulses.
Oberlin College & Conservatory
Do you want to be surrounded by fellow creatives in a stimulating, open community? Oberlin’s unique synergy of liberal arts and conservatory in Ohio does just that. Oberlin values “profound connections between intellectual and artistic exploration, theory and practice, creative freedom and professional discipline.” The College of Arts and Sciences offers over 40 majors, consistent collaboration with teachers and education outside the classroom, from professional internships to farm work. The Conservatory of Music is one of the top in the world, so whether you slay the violin or just appreciate a good concert, your 4 years will be filled with music.
WashU
Located in the heart of St Louis, Missouri, WashU promises boundary-pushing academics and a lively social scene. Through over 90 fields of study, WashU students are encouraged to explore and challenge themselves in a nurturing academic environment. WashU combines a large campus and urban experience with the promise of intimate courses and focus from teachers, with 77% of classes having less than 24 students. That combined with its exciting nightlife experience, you will stand out while never running out of new people and topics.
Dartmouth
Another member of the IVY League, Dartmouth college is for the talented intellectuals. Their liberal arts program encourages students to ask big questions confidently,. Enjoy this stimulating interdisciplinary education in beautiful New Hampshire, where you can debate philosophy with your new friends on the green. Between the gorgeous natural environment, inspiring cultural centers, and active social calendar, we know Dartmouth deserves a spot on your exciting list.
We clearly have established that you, Sagittarius (or someone who identifies as an independent, authentic thinker who doesn’t want many obstacles and boundaries in their college experience), have a lot of options when it comes to college. We want you to find a school where your intellect is challenged not just by your courses, but by your peers. We think this list is a great place to start, but don’t let us limit you. Do all your own research until you feel your college list matches who you are.
Want help applying to the schools of your dreams? Contact us here.