Jennifer
Make sure you go visit the campus and see if it is right for you; maybe visit a classroom, talk to a professor, get a feel of the environment at the campus. Be aware of costs of living and books.
Mohamed
I would certainly tell anyone who is considering higher education to inquire about the schools financial aid programs. But most importantly the diversity of students and the capabilities of professors. I learned that diversity will allow for students to interact with others and learn different cultures, this way ignorance of other beliefs is reduced. Teachers who well accredited can and will help students achieve higher levels of education and success both now and in the future. Another thing to look for when choosing a school is the cleanliness of the campus and its surrounding neighborhoods, and this is simply becuase you want to have piece of mind when it comes to your education, rather than worry about your car being broken into or if you will get robbed on the way to your car at the end of the nite.
Ravin
Regardless of what your major is, I truly believe that it is extremely vital to pay a visit to the college you are going to attend. It is easy to switch majors but it is not easy to switch colleges. Take a walk on campus, in the dorms and look at classrooms. Everyone considers the big things like class size and rankings but very few pay attention to little things. The campus may not advertise that the smell from the Agriculture department hangs over campus or that it has 3 CNC machines on campus but these are the things you learn when you visit. Rankings mean nothing if you are unhappy at the college you are at. Especially when you consider that your college is going to cost you upwards of 15,000 dollars, it would be a bit ridiculous not to take a look before you make the choice. If you like the college you are at you will enjoy it no matter what happens. Just take the time to be sure that you're making the right choice.
Lynda
Major in something you love and want to do for the rest of your life.
Calvin
Parents should be positive and encourage their child in their choice of college and assist them through the process of applying to college. Parents should also plan financially as well before their child is set to go to college, this will ease the financial responsibilities when their child is attending college. Parents should investigate other options besides saving such as scholarships, grants and government loans. Working and attending college is very difficult and often times can get in the way of completing college on time and in good standing.
Choosing a college can sometime be a difficult task with a wide array of choices. Students should not only choose a college where their major of choice is offered, but look at what other activities are available at their college or through their choice of college as well. Social activities are just as important as academic pursuits. Social activities such as sports, study abroad options, clubs and organizations, as well as college night life are all things to consider when making a final decision.
Jorge
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Do your own research and look for schools that match your needs then your wants. Make a list of what those are so you know what to look for. Make sure you place those in a priority order to know what you are willing to adjust or do without alltogether if something you need/want is not offered or met by a particular school. Visit the school if possible and take a campus tour and talk to students there. Good Luck.
Ashley
Don't focus on the name or ranking of the school, but rather the academic programs that suit you best. All undergraduate colleges pretty much provide the same education, so don't be a fool in paying $50,000 a year for a college you hate to attend. Prepare yourself to dig deep, learn much, and succeed BEFORE you go to college because it'll be much easier to succeed if your mind is completely and utterly focused on the goal. College isn't a game. It's not a huge party. It's very different from high school, so be prepared. The most important thing is not to lose sight of your dreams because people will bring you down every step of the way, but it's up to you to prove them all wrong.
Megan
Get the best grades possible so that you can go to your dream school
Mayasari
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions that you will make in life, so it's important to think about the unique qualities that you as an individual desire from a college experience. You should consider your preferences in type of education, accesibility of professors, and class sizes, so that you'll be happy with the schooling you receive everyday. Education may be the most important element in picking a school, but you also need to consider whether you will be happy physically, mentally, and socially at your school . Visit the campus and decide whether you feel content with the atmosphere that surrounds your new school, and possibly your new home. Find out whether or not your interests are fulfilled by the activities offered on campus. Take a look at the students and see if they appear happy in their environment, and look at whether or not the campus is diverse in their student population and in their offerings. Everyone will have different ideas and preferences when picking a college, so the key is to assess your own needs, do your research, and choose a college based on what you feel is the best for you.
Vanessa
Live your dreams!