Boston College Top Questions

Find a place where you can picture yourself on the campus. That is the most important thing. I'm in the process of applying for graduate school in Higher Education because of my undergraduate experience and have been working in College Admission for the year since graduation. Students change their majors an average of three times, so if a student finds a school where they are comfortable and can picture themselves, that is the most important thing.

Firstly, and most importantly, keep an open-mind. You are going to have a ton of information being thrown at you from a thousand different directions. If you pick a "first-choice" too early, you might miss out on a lot of great opportunities. Ultimately, it has to be about what YOU want. Culture at school is a much bigger deal than I thought it would be, and it's different everywhere- so make sure you can really see yourself at the school you're attending. Once you've make a decision- the first few weeks are crucial. Meeting "friends" before-hand is overrated, but go into the first weeks of college extremely friendly and accepting. You'll hear it hundreds of times - but everyone is nervous. So meet everyone, be awkward, and get connected right off the bat. It'll make the next four years all the more worth it. Finally, don't forget why you're there. Everyone loves you while you're the partier, until you find yourself failing. However, don't be married to your books- find a happy medium. You'll feel better about yourself.

It is crucial in the college selection process to know what you want in a school. Look at where you've been and what you've done, and carefully examine what has worked and what hasn't. This will help you to know what you should look for in order to succeed. Visiting your prospective schools can be helpful, but it is even more helpful if you stay with a friend who already goes there (if applicable). Getting involved right away will help you to adjust to college life not only because you will make new friends but also because it will keep you busy. One thing I found to be particularly helpful as far as study habits in college is to divide my space. I made certain spaces for studying only and others for relaxing only and I did exceptionally well academically. By staying involved and getting organized with academics you will make the most out of your college experience.

To find the right college, pick the college that best suits the things you strive to complete in college, which doesn't have to be just academics or jobs. It could be finding a new self, enjoying your time in a different setting, different cities, etc.

I would say that the most important thing is visiting the school and making sure you can picture yourself being there and walking around the campus and fitting in.

Parents let your children decide whats best for them, do not force your opinions about what school your children should go to, what they should major in, what activities they should participate in. College is a fantastic time to find oneself and it goes by so quickly. You have an opportunity to grow up and learn about so much of the world through class and just interacting with so many different people. Students take advantage of everything around you at your respective schools, as it truly is one of the greatest times of your life!

find a place that is a good fit for you and your goals.

Go to a school where the professors in your major department are the most welcoming. It makes all the difference.

Since your college is your home for the next four years, you don't just want to find a decent fit. However, there is no way to tell if a college is right for you without really getting a feel for it. I think it is imperative to visit the college during the school year and find a class or two to sit it on. Get a feel for the daily life of those college students, since that will be similar to your daily life for the next four years. Also, if the campus doesn't impress you, that alone might not be a right fit since you'll have to look at it every day. Don't be afraid to ask questions or talk to the students (if they don't look too stressed! stay away from those with exams!). If a student really loves their college, they will want to talk with you and share their experiences out of school pride alone. I love seeing people touring the campus grounds. That is one sign of a student who loves their school. Try to find pros and cons, but also their love for the school.

Any school in the top 40 will have a wide array of diversity that will allow ample opportunity to find ones niche. I think the size and surrounding area of the college are very important.