Brea
I would tell parents and students to first narrow down their choices. When they have decided on several colleges, they should visit the campus to see exactly what type of atmosphere would work best for the student during their college career. To make the most out of the college experience, the student should work on time management. It is necessary to balance work with studying, all the while making time for relaxing and social activities.
Erin
Try and have an idea of what you want before you go; it makes it easier once you're there. The internet is an invaluable resource for finding schools. Be sure to contact the professors there and visit the campus to get a good idea of whether or not you really like the college.
Cody
Look around at all colleges avaiable that offer what you are seeking. Compare them and decide what you belive is the best college. Don't base everything on getting in to that college though. Leave yourself room to maneuver, so that you will not have to make hasty sudden changes at the last minute if you dont get accepted at a certain college. Once you get to college, dont slack off. Take your classes and work seriously. But also dont hole up in your room and be anti-social. Get out there and make some friends. They will probably last a lifetime. If your interested in a sport or club, go for it, thats a great way to make friends, and it can help you out with your future career. Enjoy your college life, because it will be over before you know it and you'll miss it.
Bryan
Make sure that this is the college for your sons or daugters
Ryan
When looking for a college that is good for a student the student should try to contact the professors in the field they wish to study in. With this information a student would be able to find the area that best suites them without the advertising or the deception that colleges sometimes attempt to enact in. Colleges seem to prefer fluff over function, advertising "This college is great, the professors are great" when in reality the people writing those advertisements do not seem to speak to the professors or the current students, only caring about putting money in their pocket, whether it be through research for big universities or through attendance and donations for smaller colleges. Speaking with the professors in the field of study will allow the student to also find out if they really wish to engage in that study.
Gregory
Talk to as many students as you can, and I'm not talking about the ones that work in the admissions office of the ones living there in the summer. They are just happy to be where they are. If you want the real scoop talk to the students that aren't stuck there or working for the college. And research financial aid well, just because you didn't get a scholarship to your school of choice doesn't mean that you can't swing going there.
Steven
If your looking for the right college you have to know yourself or your child. College is something that no one is really prepared for as it is a different type of lifestyle. By knowing what academic pressure you can handle, as well as finanial assistance you need will help you decide which college is the best option for you. College is a place where someone is when someone leaves the house of their parents (on usual circumstances) and finds themselves, as they are now on their own and able to make their own choices. To do that, you have to select a school that you feel you will most feel at home at. Check out multiple colleges, and make campus visits, a walk through campus and conversations with students can tell you the most about an institution, and if it is right for you.
Kayla
My advice is find what is right for you. Find the place that has your major. Be careful and try not to get in over your head with too many outside activities. Focus on your studies. Have fun and dont stress too much. Love what you are going to school for, make sure it is something you are passionate about. Dont jump into a loan without reading the fine print. Having a roommate is awesome. Be yourself and make the most out of any situation. And things usually seem harder than they really are. So dont stress, love yourself, and be yourself. Everything else should fall into place.
Natasha
Don't get blinded by the money being offered to you, chances are there is some catch that will catch you off gaurd and hurt your plans.