Thus it is important that one be careful not only in making his first, but in making his second, his third, and even his fourth choice. One should carefully consult what sources of information he can, and be as familiar as possible with the characters of the Colleges which he names in his list.[78] Expense, for instance, may be considered by some. There is some difference between the cost of living at various Colleges. Yet one should not let a difference of a few pounds outweigh other considerations which, were that eliminated, would attract him to other Colleges. The advantages which one thinks he may obtain from congenial surroundings—the influence of certain traditions, the presence of certain Tutors—the atmosphere which is best adapted to one’s disposition and to his work; these should be the considerations which determine a choice. It may be of interest to future applicants, in this connexion, to know that a thick volume of eulogistic letters of recommendation, &c., is not so highly prized in Oxford as it may seem to be in certain other places. The facts—all of them—are wanted, in a plain, matter-of-fact, concise form. But pages of glowing praise are likely to cause first amazement, then amusement, then suspicion, and sometimes rejection in certain Senior Common-rooms in Oxford.[79] [Sidenote: Standing.] It has been often asked: how may one know whether he is going to obtain ‘Senior or Junior standing or neither’? A positive answer is difficult. However, any one may at once learn from his own University whether it is affiliated with Oxford or not, and whether his local standing will entitle him to Oxford Senior standing.[80] If not, he may still entertain hopes for senior Standing in case he has obtained ‘honours’ (e. g. _Phi Beta Kappa_, or _summa cum laude_) with his degree. The student who cannot qualify for Senior standing may reasonably expect to obtain Junior standing if he has a degree and can show a satisfactory record in a satisfactory course.[81] Choice of Work.