For students preparing to choose a college, a local entrepreneur is offering a workbook that could make the planning process less stressful.
Alexia Redman, owner of the eco-friendly refill grocery store, The Earth Pantry, has shared details about her college tour guidebook which she wrote in 2020 and began stocking in her shop just last year.
“A Guide to College Tours Workbook” draws on Redman’s own experience transferring to five different universities.
The workbook features a detailed questionnaire with room to document information about 10 different schools, allowing students to compare and contrast the institutions that they tour.
In addition, the workbook includes a handy grading sheet that enables students to rate each school and make the best choice for their needs.
Taking the overwhelm out of college planning
“I think it can just get really overwhelming,” Redman said. “And this transition is important. It’s one of the more important choices you’re going to make in your life, and you want it to be completely enjoyable and really fun the whole time, and be excited about it and not get overwhelmed.
The guidebook allows students to record what they learn about each college, while also giving them a framework for effective questions that they should be asking.
“It’s more than just [which school] has the best major,” she explained. “There’s so much. It’s gonna be your new home, and you have to be comfortable there…can you stack your furniture? Are you guaranteed a job on campus? Can you print for free?”
Redman said the book could also be helpful for students who are looking to transfer from one college to another.
“I think staying somewhere that you don’t belong or you can’t thrive is just gonna hurt you,” she said about changing schools. “I don’t think anyone should ever feel bad if they want to change their mind. Just make sure you take what you did and learn from it.”
Pick up your copy
Currently, “A Guide to College Tours Workbook” is available on Amazon, as well as in The Earth Pantry store and The Book Tavern, both located in downtown Augusta. The book is published under Redman’s maiden name, Alexia Gonzalez.
