Chapman University Top Questions

Try to let go of the idea of the "perfect school" for you. No matter where you choose to go to college, the experience will be what you make it. I've known people who always wanted to go to Harvard and ended up hating it, and some of the smartest people I know went to state school and learned a lot. No matter where you go, you get what you put in.

First go for a place that "feels" right. If nothing sticks out to you, look into the strength of the programs you are interested in at the school. In the end, I really believe you can fit in most anywhere if you find a niche.

Always go for the better rated teacher rather than the interesting subject. A good teacher can make a seemling dull subject fantastic but a bad teacher can completely ruin a really good subject.

For the students, make as many friends as possible, especially with other freshmen. Everyone is scared and afraid to leave home, so you can relate with everyone else who feels the same way. You'll make friends quickly, and the right ones will support you in this transition of your life. Also, make good friends with people in your field, as they'll help you get jobs. For parents, let your children grow on their own. They'll make mistakes, but they need that freedom to grow. If you take a butterfly out of its cocoon instead of letting it fight its way out, it will never gain enough strength to fly and will eventually die.

College is all about finding the right place for you and where you fit. This is a long process and there could be many schools where you could fit. Personally, my "perfect fit" came from a number of factors. My "dream school" was a great fit, but didn't offer enough financial aid to really be my best choice. Logical thinking and emotions are both neccessary to find your fit. Take many factors into account: academic programs, social opportunities, campus environment, surrounding environment, campus life- these are just a small bit of what to consider and you will probably have many other personal criteria. No matter what your choice may be, make your experience your own. The best way to do this is to GET INVOVLED from day 1. Find things that interest you and ways to make connections. This could be Greek Life, clubs/organizations, student government, residence life, intramurals/varsity sports, internships, or jobs, but no matter what it is you choose, make sure you feel a part of your community and make an effort to do so.

I would advise that you take a tour of the school and get information on housing, cafeteria, study abroad, and classes.

Look for the lcoation that will make you the happiest, there are people that you will love as friends and repsect as professors everywhere.

Don't go to a college based on what you think college SHOULD be like (big parties, football games, etc.) but rather go with whatever choice will make YOU the most happy on a daily bases. Parties and huge social scenes may be fun every once and a while if you want to visit a campus that does that, but as far as your college choice goes, pick one that best fits your educational goals and your personal interests...this will make you the most happ in the end.

first and formost visit the school that you are thinking of attending. you can truly get a feel for what the atmosphere of the school is like just by walking around it for a short time. also i would not take the generic campus tour, wander around on your own and talk to students maybe find a regular student not versed in the administration script to tell you about the school. getting your own experience for what life is lick on the campus is the most valubal thing you can do in selecting the university that is right for you.

I believe college is the portal to helping students find the career choice and direction in life they aspire to. It's hard to take the time during the excitment and rush of senior year in high school to find the perfect match in a college; but I think this is the most important time. College is a great transitional period for young adults to transform into competent adults. Once they find the perfect college that caters to their needs, I think it is beyond important to get invovled in every aspect of your degree and interests as you possibly can. College is a great way to discover the person you want to be, and there is a ton of aid available to those who seek it. Open your mind to new possibilities, think outside of the box, and discover the unique person you are and aspire to be in life. Your experience at college shoudl propel you with the knowledge and social confidence to live your life and fullfill your dreams to the fullest capacity.