Matthew
VISIT THE SCHOOLS!!! And really try to meet people and get a feel for life there whan you do. It will make a big difference in ensuring that you find the perfect fit for you. And you might even be surprised what you find.
Teronica
I would advise parent to count up the cost first and decide how important the investment is to their child and to them. Also, parents should look into what their child plans to study and research different colleges and universities to see which program offers the best!
Helen
Visit. The. School. You can read as many college books as you can get your hands on, and you can crunch numbers to see which is the most affordable, and you can pour over majors lists, but what makes college worth experiencing is how you feel on campus. Take the time to visit your top three schools, and you'll be glad you did.
Wesley
Figure out what you want to do with your life, or what you think you want to do, or just something that makes you happy to do. Research different schools and do your homework so that you know where the programs are. When you visit, talk to the students. Ask them instead of the trained tour guides; that's how you get a real idea of what a school is like. Ultimately, the decision you make should be based on the feeling you get when you step on campus. You're going to be living here for the next four (or more) years, so make sure that it is somewhere you can see yourself not just subsiding, but thriving and enjoying. It could be the perfect school on paper, but if you don't get the feeling that you will be happy there, don't go! Choosing a college is a big decision, but it doesn't have to be a super hard one. Go with your heart, and the rest of you will fall right into line. Good luck!
Lauren
If you find a college you really want to go to a particular school then go for it, no matter the cost because you only get to go to college once. While you're there, don't wait until you're a junior to get serious. Get your GPA up as a freshman and you will set yourself up with a better platform for the rest of your college career.
Krista
Take your time in the selection process. Do not rush a decision about your future and be open-minded about spreading your wings beyond your comfort level.
Brad
Make sure that you do your research. Go and visit a campus and ask other people. You will learn so much more by doing this than just reading something from an article or book. Come to Auburn's campus and you'll fall in love with it immediately.
Brooke
Visit a lot of campuses and think it through. Where ever you end up, enjoy yourself and be happy there. Make the most of the experience. It's something you'll never forget and make friends for life.
Michael
Find a college in an interesting place with an interesting major. The "practical" path will make you bitter and bored. Enjoy what you do.
Alisha
Make sure when considering a college that you choose the one that will best lead you in the direction of the career of your choice. A good science based college will build a better base for choosing a professional major in the medical field.