Lauren
When looking for the right college, I suggest looking at the programs offered, the extra curricular activities, how often the campus has social activities, and what the campus looks like. You should definitely go visit the school, go on a tour, and ask as many questions as you can think of. You should also try to get some information from a current student (if one is not leading the tour) so that you can get a feel for campus life. If you're going to be living on campus, look at the dorms and the area surrounding the college.
To make the most of your college experience, you definitely need to attend at least some of the social activites. Try to get involved in the campus because then you will actually feel like part of the campus community - which makes your time there so much better. That way you meet a variety of people, some that become your life-long friends. Of course go to your classes and if you need extra help, talk to your professors - they are there to help you. It's always best to be yourself - that way you're more comfortable.
Allan
Do a lot of research when finding a college to attend. Make sure that the college is inline with your views and challenge your abilities. Also look at colleges outside of the immediate area to make sure you have a wealth of choices. Though, it may be difficult at first, it will be well worth the adventure. I feel so frustrated with my college choice that I will attend a different college when obtaining my MBA and obtain it much sooner than originally thought just to get a different college experience.
claudia
do not be afraid of exploring yuor options just because of distance
Helena
First, choose a college that is respected and well rounded. Maybe you think you're really interested in the medical field, but chances are, you'll most likely change your mind. Also, respected colleges have prestigious faculty that know reputable companies. These facultly will often land you a job. Second, visit the career development center right away. Based on assessments, they will help you determine your personality type and matching careers. They will also provide resources, such as alumni and association organizations, career interviews, and workshops. Third, join an organization and network, network, network. These people will most likely lead you to more opportunities and networks. Fourth, obtain an on-campus job (and network). Fifth, visit your professor's office hours. Most likely, they become lonely; attending will create a rapport where they'll likely boost your grade if your on the cusp and help you network. Create early, effective study habits by reading before class and reviewing right after. Academics are only half the importance of college; what good is your knowledge if you don't know who will allow you to use it? Lastly, try not to take life so seriously (but seriously network).
Elizabeth
Visit the campus it makes a BIG difference!!! Since you can see the school for yourself.
Terence
I would advise that parents send their children to college preparatory programs, such as summer bridge or upward bound prior to sending them to begin actual programs. That way, parents and students will become more knowledgeable about the courses and professors at the college prior to making a commitment. Furthermore, the experience will allow the parents/students to make a last-minute change, if needbe.
Finally, parents should talk with their students about their everyday experiences, so they can help us through them. Many hurdles and pitfalls can be avoided if more experienced people are around to point them out to us.
Cyndl
Don't go on what your firends think. Visit the schools and go with your gut, not which school is more popular or has the cutest guys. You may think you like a place, but once you visit your whole attitude may change. And like wise, you may think you hate a place until you actually visit. or, visiting could totally prove you right. Either way, you win.
Christal
Advice that I would give to parents and futre college students in making the right choice for college is to pick a school that best fits their individual needs, as well as any services, programs and specific majors that it focuses on that fit what the individual is looking for. One important thing before you make a descion on a school is to go out and visit the schools that you are interested in by attending campus tours, when you visit a school you can get a sense of the school environment and have the opportunity to ask questions on the spot and get the answers you need. When you have made a descion on the school you want to attend it can not be stressed enough to take advantage of the services that the school offers and provides. The staff is there to help you in bettering your education so if you need help just ask and most of the services are free! Getting invloved in sports or clubs can also enhance your college experience because you not only make friends while in school but you make a friend for the rest of your life.
Sarah
When you are selecting a college, it is very important to visit each school and gain some feel for the campus culture before making a decision. No matter how great a school is academically, if you don't feel at home or like you belong, it is difficult to excell. Find an environment where you can thrive. Due to distance, I was unable to visit my campus before enrolling, and I believe that if I had visited, I would have chosen differently.
When you start school, make the most of your experience. You can't blame a bad college experience on others. It is up to you to decide how your time at college will be. Reach out to people. Get involved. If you feel lonely, make a new friend. You aren't alone. Everyone is new. Everyone is looking for somewhere to belong. That's what I regret most about my time here. I have been too reclusive and hesitant to get connected. If I could do my first two years over, that's what I would change.
Gregory
Pick a college that incorporates everything that is important to you. An environment that works best for you and not against you is issential. Choosing a college is basically a two to four year commitment so be sure your'e comfortable with your decision.