California Baptist University Top Questions

Realize you will live on after high school, work hard and go somewhere nice.

Take lots of visits and talk to students that go there. Make sure you know what you want for yourself before looking.

There are certainly a lot of things to take into consideration when choosing a college. In light of this, I think that the college decision should be based off of three things: Career interests, world view, and social needs. Obviously the first question one must ask about a college is "Does this college offer majors that interest me?" It does no good to go to a college that doesn't offer a Nursing program if that is what one wants to take. Additionally, having a few basic ideas about what one wants to study will allow him to focus on information regarding whichever major he is interested in and compare it to other schools as far as quality of learning and experience. Secondly, one may be more comfortable at a school that is centered around a world-view similar to his, such as a Christian who wishes to attend a private university that has other Christian students. And lastly the social needs; if one is looking to being social and active in school then they may be more interested in a smaller college that is more intimate and has a variety of activities available, rather than larger, overwhelming state schools.

Choose a college you will feelcomfortable in. If you like to be around a lot of people, maybe a public school would be best. If you like smaller class sizes mayme you woud do better in a private school. Don't let the cost of a school determine where you want to go. There are always scholarships, and financial aid opportunities you can apply for. If you feel ready to accomplish your goals try not to choose a party school. A school like that can sometimes put a damper on your dreams, especially when you are putting more time into the partying than in your schoolwork. I also tried to look for a school where the teachers try to get to know and help you accomplish your dreams. It makes you feel more confident, and you feel ready for when you are placed in the work field.

First the student must discover what he/she wants in a school. (large campus/small campus religious or party school) Then make especially sure that the school offers majors and degrees that fully prepare you for your career goals. Take campus vists, talk with current students and sit in on classes. If possible spend the night in a dorm and visit the cafeteria. Doing much preparation and narrow your choices down to a few. Then make a judgement based on educational goals...Lastly once in school get involved. There has been numerous researches that have shown those that have finished school with a degree is the person that is involved. So get involved in your school in what area interests you.

Be willing to step out of the box. Learning is an incredible journey that shouldn't be taken lightyly but does not need to be stressed about. Trust God Always!

I would tell them that the student needs to make the final decision on their own. It is important for a student to find their "own" place at a school or university; I feel it is the worst thing you can do as a parent when it comes this situation is to force your child to go somewhere only becuase you have personal ties to it, and my parents aren't like that. College should prepare students for their future not only in the classroom but in your housing areas, campus activities, and other areas of involvement. If you step onto a college campus as a student and feel like you don't belong there chances are you might not, go with your gut when choosing a school. There might not be one perfect place for everyone but you will get a feeling inside that screams 'I want to be here more than aywhere else' when you find the right place, don't be affraid of that feeling!

Do not get too caught up in prestige of a university. Rather, focus on your personality. You need to holistically look at a unviersity in order to see which one best fits your personality. I loved my school because of its overall environment. Trust your instinct, but also look into the services a university provides. Do they have opportunities for learning both educationally and socially? Look for schools that will best help foster your developmental experience over the next four years.

To parents: Keep in mind the wishes and desires of your child. If they are not fully satisfied with the college they end up at, the chances of them succeeding and striving to do well are rare. To students: Follow your dreams. If there is something you seriously want to pursue, then go for it! You'll never know if you don't try!

I would tell them to visit each school in person because my first choice on paper, was not the place where I felt at home and liked the feel of the campus the best, which ended up playing a role in changing my mind and was one reason why I did not pick my first choice.