Colorado School of Mines Top Questions

Two things are important when choosing a college. The first is knowing what kind of career a person wants when they graduate. Without this in mind, a quality education will be difficult to attain. The second is visiting the college, getting a good look at the campus, talking to current students and looking at the work load are important to know before attending.

The students need to stay in the dorms freshman year, there is so much to learn and there is a lot ofgrowing up that first year. Also realize where you want to live, that can really effect how much you like the school, certain people hate the humidity and temperature of Texas and some hate the cold of Colorado, so be aware. Also if you want to play a varsity sport look early to keep your options open so you also have more. If you cannot afford the college you want because it is out of state of private look at what you will have to do to pay for it because it is important to get a good education and most likely you will be there for 4 years so you want it to be a place that will be enjoyable.

Although selecting a college is a family decision, it is ultimately the student's decision because they will be the one taking the classes and living the college life. Find a college that fits your wants and needs best. For instance, if you are from a small town, picking a small school might be at the top of your list. This would also ensure that the student will get to know the professors on a personal basis. If money is the issue, take out student loans and do not stress about trying to find a job during college. School is tough enough. The added stress is not worth it. There is plenty of time to pay back the loans when you are out of school. As for the parents, trust your kids. As they grow up, they will know what is best for them. Your support is the most important thing a student needs from their parents. Students should stay focused, but also try and have some fun. The people you meet in college could be your life long partners and friends. Take advantages of all the opportunities.

I would tell anyone who is looking for a college to attend that it is important to find somewhere that will teach what you want to learn very well. Dont choose a school based on friends or the social scene because you will be able to find great friends anywhere you go. I would also caution incoming freshman that there is a big difference between high school and college and the transition may take awhile, but hang in there and it will all click one day. Be patient and work hard and everything else will fall into place for you.

First, make a list of the things you would consider as important in a school. That can be anything from things surrounding the school, activities to do while going to school, the existance of certain clubs, the renown of the school, the kind of students going to the school, to more technical things like the class sizes, the quality of the department you're interested in, the existance of options should you decide to change majors, the abitlity to transfer credits and so forth. Then do as much research as you can for colleges that mach your criteria and make a list of colleges you'd like to visit. And I'd strongly suggest you go visit any of the colleges that are left on your list. Even if it's just one, it's one thing to hear about it, and another to actually experiance it. I had narrowed my choices down to three before I went and visited them all, and by the time I did, it was clear to me I was a Mines student. It was just the college that connected with me the most. And I wouldn't have known if I didn't go.

Pick a college that has the fields you are interested in. Follow what you like/love to do, and dont be scared to go after it.

To find the right college I would suggest finding fields that you are interested in and what type of majors that can be used in that field. From there look for colleges that give that education. Take into account the school's reputation, proximity, campus life, extraccuricular activities, sports, and available financial aid. Once the college choices have been narrowed down to 10 or less, apply and see what happens. Upon attending college don't be afraid to meet people, try to get involved with campus activities, and look for clubs that suit your interests. College is a time not only to get an education, but to discover. It is a time to find out things you never knew and try out new stuff. Try rock climbing, surfing, racquetball, any time you have a chance, say yes.

Don't just focus on academics - get involved with groups that can help you go through hard classes but are also there for you when you need their support in life issues. Life isn't all about school, partying, drinking, doing well, etc. Good grades will come when you focus on the real stuff in life. Have positive and uplifting impact on those around you - that's all that matters.

In the end its all about the education and job, don't short change yourself on what you want to accomplish and what you believe in. If I had gone to a school that didn't require me to embrace challenge and excel I would feel that I had wasted a once in a lifetime opportunuty. Also College gave me the opportunity to move away from home and establish my own life. I strongly recommend going out of state if possible to establish this identity.

Students need to make sure they are going somewhere that will make them happy. Not their parents, not their boyfriend/girldfriend, not their sibling, but them. The student needs to make sure they have all the resources they will need at that school. They should make sure there is a club for the activity they are interested in. Students and parents shouldn't worry about them living alone. Most schools have programs to help students meet each other and get used to the school. Parents should keep in mind that they raised their child, and probably did a great job if they are going to college, and shoulnd't be worried about them moving away, no matter how far away they are. It is supposed to be a fun time, so have fun, but also remember that college is for learning, so make the most of that as well. And if you need to switch majors, it is better than doing something you hate forever. Mostly, just have a good time meeting new people you will know for the rest of your life!