The idea of a “dream school” is deeply rooted in the college application process, often presenting admission to top universities as the ultimate goal. However, this perspective fails to understand the real purpose of higher education and can lead to disappointing results for students. A closer examination reveals that focusing only on a school’s reputation is a mistake; true educational achievement depends not on institutional ranking, but on the quality of the learning experience and personal growth it enables.

This narrow focus on prestigious schools creates significant psychological pressure. Education experts observe that students are often pushed to make detailed career plans before they are truly ready. Naturally, this continuous pressure to succeed and have everything planned connects directly to rising levels of anxiety and depression among college-age adults. These issues are particularly severe at so-called “dream schools”.

In contrast, students who take different educational paths frequently discover more meaningful opportunities. Sometimes, failing to gain admission to a first-choice institution can actually reduce stress, freeing students from continuous competition for status. For instance, one student who transferred from a well-known university to a less famous state college found that real achievement came not from the school’s name but from finding the right environment. Similarly, another talented student found that a university that warmly welcomed and properly guided her provided superior support for scholarship applications and professional development compared to her original, more famous choice. In both cases, feeling recognized and supported proved more valuable than institutional reputation.

We should therefore shift our question from “What’s your dream school?” to “What makes a truly rewarding college experience?” By focusing instead on the essential components that support student development — strong support systems, meaningful connections, and practical skills — we can better connect the college search with education’s true purpose: to help young people understand themselves and build the foundation for a rewarding life, not merely a highly paid one.

1. 1. What does the author believe about the “dream school” concept?

A    It is achievable.

B    It is misleading.

C    It is inspiring.

D     It is outdated.

2. 2. The underlined word “prestigious” in Paragraph 2 is closest in meaning to ________.

A    famous

B    stressful

C    supportive

D    competitive

3. 3. What is the main purpose of the student examples in Paragraph 3?

A    To show alternative paths can be better.

B    To prove state colleges are superior.

C    To advise students to transfer.

D    To list opportunities for scholarships.

4. 4. What is the main suggestion given in the final paragraph?

A    Raising university rankings.

B    Increasing financial support.

C    Applying to more colleges.

D    Changing the core question.