Augustana University Top Questions

don't worry about the cost. if it is the place you want to go, do it. when you find that right college, you just know. and when you do finally get there in the fall, you feel immediately that you made the right decision; it's a great feeling.

Go to a school with a lot of choices if you have no idea what you want to do. Take several different classes to help you choose a major. If you already have an idea of what you'd like to do, make sure you go to a school with a few different choices for what you're interested in, just in case you change your mind. And if you pick a school for it's major, make sure that you like the campus and connected with the proffessors. Good luck!

While it seems that when you are looking for a college, you have to find "the one" - the one college that will fit you perfectly, in actuality, you will probably have a great college experience at a variety of locations. Yes, you want to find the one that has a good program for your major, a nice campus, and good living situations, but most of the college experience is dependent upon the students. Are they opening themselves up to new people and situations, being responsible with their classes and social life, taking some initiative in their education instead of blindly believing everything their professors say, getting involved on campus so make a difference? Those are the types of things that make the most of a college experience wherever you are.

I would recommend seriously looking at the school before you commit. Stay a weekend, don't just take the word of your tour guide as gospel truth. Take a tour and feel the campus, look at the reputation of the school's program at potential grad schools. Look at the things important to you: community involvement, financial aid, sports...and then be involved in them! Don't rush into a decision on college, and don't decide on one based ont he opinions of anyone but yourself. It is your life, and you will have to live with this decision for the rest of your life. Make it something you will love and which will fit you exactly. There is a college out there for everyone. Interview students who go there and get their real, down to earth impressions of the school. Make your life there worth it by doing the things you love and enjoying your youth.

Just do what feels right.

Parents and students should look together at colleges and when considering a college they should know the area. Students should find a college that is a comfortable distance from their family and friends and also understand what jobs are available in the area. The most important advice I can give is, do not rule out a school because it is private or too expensive. Colleges will work with you and find you as much financial aid and loans as they can. The college you choose reflects the education you will receive and the job opportunities that you will have later.

The best advice I could possibly regarding any part of the college experience, whether it be seeking a college or becoming part of one you have chosen, is to be inquisitive. Asking lots of questions is the best way to find out about what a school is really like. The saying that "there is no such thing as a stupid question" is extremely true when it comes to looking for a college. Ask away! That way, you can learn about what the school has to offer for whatever it is you want to know about (be that money, academics, food, etc). Not only that, but by asking questions, you are beginning the networking process at a school you (or your child) may very well end up attending. You are meeting new people, and connecting. One of my best friends I met when I was a high school student coming to a visit day at my school. By asking questions, you are gaining information, creating networks, and maybe even forging new bonds with other people heading in the same direction as you in life. What better way to find the right college for you?

Take your time, it is a long commitment and none of it should be taken lightly. This is an important choice to make. Money is important and shouldn't be overlooked. But don't forget that fitting in is important if you expect yourself or you child to want to make it though these years. Never give up!

This is a perfect college. The profs are the best! They are very helpful and understanding. They really do care about each student and go out of their way to help.

Most colleges are notable for different programs that they offer. Know which schools in your area are notable for what programs and decide whether these match up with your interests. It is best to think ahead and go to a college that is known for its program in the area you wish to study. This both ensures a better chance of finding a job after college (as more places will want to hire you) and/or allows you to be noticed by Grad schools which will offer you internships, and, in many cases, free schooling. Money is always an issue, but if you got to a school known for its program in your area, you are likely to get back many times more after schooling what you put in before and during.