There's already a long list of considerations when applying to college (location, size, diversity of the student body). But in a more environmentally conscious society, a new issue is becoming a bigger deciding factor.  I'm not talking about the availability of cable in dorms. What I'm referring to is a school's "green factor" or its commitment to sustainability.

Unless you've already saved the whales and written an application essay on it, this might not seem like a very important issue when choosing where to go. However, a school's green factor can have a big impact on your quality of life as a student there. Are you a vegetarian? Can you afford a car in college? Environmental awareness isn't just better for the earth, it's better for the students too! Going to a greener school can offer you special benefits such as:

• A better classroom experience with cleaner air and more natural light
• A healthier dining hall that offers organic or locally grown produce and more options for vegetarians
• A comprehensive education on how the environment impacts your field or career of interest
• Transportation alternatives, such as bikes and shuttles, that are cheaper and more convenient than driving
• Opportunities to get involved in student campaigns, clubs, and jobs that promote campus sustainability

These are all factors that can significantly affect your standard of living. Not all universities offer these perks and initiatives, but college students everywhere are beginning to demand and expect more environmentally responsible policies at their schools. As applicants, you should too. To do your part to help the planet, you can:

• Do research online using green college rankings, such as The College Sustainability Report Card, which reveal the universities with the best and worst practices.
• Talk to your parents about why sustainability matters and how it affects your education.
• Ask questions about sustainability policies when you're visiting campuses.
• Once you're on campus, continue to promote environmental accountability and participate in student initiatives.