From U.S. News and World Report, here are accounts of nine road trips to college campuses situated in different parts of the country.

In a recent Chronicle of Higher Education article, a panel of higher education experts weighs in on who should go to college, who should pay for it, and how the increase in college students affects our society.

With so many colleges and universities to choose from, even beginning to narrow down the options can seem a daunting chore.  Here are some factors to keep in mind as you begin the college application process.

Size: Do you prefer a large university, a small liberal arts college, or something in between?  Do you learn better in large lecture-style classes or small discussion-based seminars?

Location: How far from home is too far?  Do you prefer an urban, rural, or suburban environment?  Do you need a school in an area with accessible public transportation?

Academics: What major do you want to study?  Do you seek particular honors programs?  Do you want to attend a school where the emphasis is on teaching or research? Must all classes be taught by full professors with PhDs, or is it okay if some classes are taught by PhD students or adjunct faculty?

Student Population: Is ethnic and geographic diversity important to you?  Do you prefer an all-male or all-female school, or do you seek a co-educational college or university?

Campus Life: What sports, clubs or activities do you hope to participate in?  Do you want to go to a school with active fraternities and sororities?  One where students are politically active?  One with a particularly religious student body? Or do you need a campus full of artists? Do you want to attend a college where activity is mainly centered on-campus?  Or a school where many or most students are commuters, and activity takes place off-campus?

Cost: Consider not just the major costs like tuition, room, and board, but also factor in transportation, books, and personal expenses.  What types of financial aid are available?  What percentage of students receive financial aid at the schools you are considering?

Once you know what you’re looking for in a college, consult College Board or Princeton Review to see how each school measures up to your list of criteria.