Cornell University Top Questions

I would suggest finding a school that has a sense of tradition and is well-respected around the country for academics and /or research. I would also look to find a school that offers opportunities for involvement prior to graduation, whether in clubs, intramurals, Greek life, research, community service, etc. These kinds of opportunities allowed me personally to not only build up my resume and make friends, but to better inform me about what I like and dislike, and also enables me to sample different interests before making a sustained commitment in the form of a career. Also, pick a school where you know you will be able to make friends, have fun, and relax, as school should not only be about studying hard and getting good grades, but also making lifelong friends and connections. In short, I would recommend choosing a school that allows you to maximize your future potential in the 4 short years you're there, as your education can and should be a "golden ticket" to advance yourself in the future!

Visit! Take the tour, but also talk to students who go there who aren't being paid to convince you to go there; they're a lot more likely to be honest. Find out what jobs people who graduate there usually get and determine if that matches up with what you want. If you're a female student, find out how women perform at the school. Look at the school's newspaper and list of student organizations; they will give you a feel for the school's political atmosphere. Once you've amassed all the information about a college, be very honest with yourself about whether you think you would be happy there for four or more years. That matters more than cost or prestige.

take the time to really walk around and experience college life at any campus that you are considering. name brand recognition and prestige are important, but if you are not happy at the institution you choose you will not do well no matter how prestigious the name.

Visit each school and really envision yourself there. Of course the curriculum matters but what really matters is that you are going to be socially comfortable in your environment to enable your ability to learn.

Watch the people, not the classes. it's about what you make of it - all in the attitude.

First make a list of what you or your child wants from the college experience. This can be academics, social aspects, or alumni relations. Next pick schools that fit the profile on paper of what you desire. It is very important to visit the schools to know what they have to offer above and beyond what is on the brochure. In order to get the most from your college experience, I would say try to get as involved in as many activities as you can at school. Doing intramural sports, joining student government, rushing a fraternity/sorrority are all great options to meet different types of people and make important relationships for the time you are at school and after you graduate. Also, get to know your professors and any alumni that stop by. They will be your best resource for getting a job once you get out of school.

Talk to the students there- if you like the people you'll be with, you'll like the school.

When it comes to finding the right college, make sure you do a lot of research and visit schools that seem appealing. Also make sure that the school has a diversity of fields, or a strong program in the specific field in which you are interested. Never base your personal college decision on the decisions of others, and absolutely do not be dissuaded from applying to a school because someone tells you something negative about it (or that you are not qualified). To make the most of your college experience the most important thing is to be open to trying new things and meeting new people. Try out different activities and get to know as many people as possible. Do not limit yourself to a certain group of people and do not place too much value on being accepted into any certain organization. Most of all, have fun and stay focused!

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Make sure that you spend plenty of time reading about schools and talk to students from the school to get a good idea about what campus is really like.