Clarke University Top Questions

Finding the right college for each individual is very important, as every person is unique and requires different needs. College is much like a caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. First the caterpillar must find its special place where it is going to make its' transformation, much like a student in their search for a college. Once the caterpillar finds that special place, it will begin its transformation. Throughout the four years that each student is attending college, he or she will transform into a professional. Throughout the process, every student should make the most of the college experience. In order to do so, he or she should become involved with him or her interests, such as sports, clubs, and classes. College is much more than academics, it is about the transformation into an adult, learning not only the knowledge to be successful in his or her career, but also the knowledge to be successful in life.

When choosing the right college you need to look at a variety of aspects. Does it have a good program for the major you are choosing to pursue, what size do you want, what social aspects and extracurriculars are most important to you? The trickiest aspect for any eighteen year old is being absolutely certain that they know what career path they want to embark on over the next four years. How can any student be certain that this is what they want to study. I would advise students and familes to take an honest look at four years into the future. What kind of job do they see themselves applying to? If you choose a school based on the program and then later decide that this program no longer is what you desire you could face a change in major and possible even a transferring of schools. While transferring is not the worst thing that could happen, it can cause financial and credit transfer difficulties. Be honest to yourself as you choose your college and choose the one that is the best fit for the student not based on the desire of the parents.

Go with your gut, and don't worry about finances. Find the right school for YOU, instead of just going where friends or family want you to.

Start looking and applying for schools early. Start looking for financial aid and scholarships early. Be sure to read and correct any mistakes in applications before sending them off. If needed, take the paper to a local library to see if someone there can help you. Remind your children that it's ok to not be accepted to some schools. Visit as many campuses as you can. See if overnight stays are available at some schools - it gives a more true view of the school. Talk to professors, guidance counselors and other random faculty people at the school. Take your own campus tour to see if it's right for you and your children. When in college, join as many clubs and organizations as possible! It will help you make friends and give you more life experience. Have fun! It will fly by.

Parents- Encourage your child to job shadow many different fields while in high school to find what they are most interested in. It is never a good idea to enter a college setting without some basic idea of what you want as an outcome. Also talk to your children about the financial responsibilities that go along with going to college and encourage them to do as much as they can to make responsible choices regarding their money. Students- Be aware of the fact that alcohol is a part of college and don't allow yourself to become out of control when it comes to drinking. Many students lose their ability to focus on their longterm goals when they drown themselves in the 'party scene'.

Do the research and visit as many campuses as possible in order to find the right fit for you and/or your son or daughter.

To find the right college and make the most of the college experience, try to really figure out whether you can find people who will respect you for who you are there.