Creating a thoughtful, personalized school list is the first—and one of the most important—steps in the private school admissions journey. With so many excellent options, especially in a city like New York, knowing how to focus your choices can make all the difference.

At AtomicMind, we guide families through every part of this process, helping students build balanced lists that align with their academic goals, values, and interests. Here’s how to start:

1. Identify Academic Fit

‍Look for schools with the right level of academic challenge and support. Does your child thrive in a high-pressure environment or do they need more individualized attention? Specialized programs like STEM, languages, or arts can also help match your child’s passions.

2. Understand School Culture and Values

‍A school’s values matter. Whether it’s progressive or traditional, highly structured or more student-driven, the school’s mission should resonate with your family’s priorities. Visit websites, watch videos, and talk to current families to get a sense of the culture.

3. Assess Extracurricular Offerings

‍Does the school support your child’s non-academic interests—sports, music, robotics, community service? A strong extracurricular program helps develop well-rounded students and makes school more enjoyable.

‍4. Evaluate Class Size and Teacher Support

‍Smaller class sizes often mean more personalized instruction. Look into advising systems and how the school supports students’ academic and emotional development.

‍5. Look at College Placement and Alumni Networks

‍While your child is years away from college applications, it's helpful to consider how schools support students over the long term. Strong alumni networks and proven college counseling programs are a major asset.

‍6. Attend Events and Ask Questions

‍Whether it's an open house, a school fair, or a virtual info session, these events help you assess the campus environment and connect with admissions staff.

‍7. Seek Feedback from Current Families

‍Reach out to current families at the schools you're considering to gather insights and perspectives. Ask about their experiences, strengths, and areas for growth within the school community.

‍8. Consider Location and Commute Time

‍Take into account the location of each school and the logistics of commuting, especially if it involves a significant distance or transportation challenges. Consider factors such as safety, accessibility, and the impact on your family's daily routine.

‍9. Balance Reach, Match, and Safety

It’s wise to include a range of selectivity levels on your list. An overly ambitious list can lead to disappointment, while a too-safe list may limit potential.

By researching and considering these factors, you can create a list of schools of interest that align with your child's academic, extracurricular, and personal needs, setting them up for success on their educational journey. Remember, this process is not just about prestige—it’s about finding schools where your child will grow, thrive, and be happy. 

AtomicMind is here to help you clarify priorities, refine your list, and approach each application with confidence.

About the Author: Dylan is a Head Advisor at AtomicMind based in Southern California. He graduated from Stanford University with a major in International Relations and a minor in French. His passion for learning and education shaped his current endeavor of helping students design their own unique path to college, which he does in addition to his hobbies of hiking, traveling, and reading.