DePaul University Top Questions

My advice would be judge a school by what it offers. Don't go some where because it has a great name, the name is only worth it if it really is the school for you. Because if you hate the school no matter how great it's suppose to be you won't reach your full potential. Also, don't judge a school by its cost, I know this is a difficult thing to ignore but really my mom always told me that educational debt is never bad debt. It will end up paying for itself if you work hard enough and want it bad enough. Just remember going for your dreams means risk and that could very well include financial risk, but most schools are willing to work with you and so are loan companies, so never give up on your dream school just because it seems a little pricey. And once you find the perfect college and get settled take advantage of every opportunity possible!! Even if its something your really not into such as theater you might be surprised. Keep an open mind and you will have a great time.

The advice I would give is to really look into a few colleges and go and visit them a few times when students are around. Ask lots of questions, like dorm availability in the future, financial aid in the future, what happens if you do bad at first. Don't just go to a school that your friends are going to, you will meet new people. Remember what you are there for and if you have any problems, even if your just lonely go talk to someone. Join clubs or be in a sport, you need to keep busy so that you dont party as much, I have found the students that do nothing find themselves in trouble. Everyone struggles at first so you are not alone, talk to people do not be afraid, dont be embarassed, and do not think you can get through touch times on your own. We all could use help and its nothing to be ashamed of. Have fun but dont go over the top, make sure you go after your dreams your future depends on it.

Finding a suitable college is like solving a puzzle, but this puzzle lies within you. As a prospective college student, ask yourself, ?What are my goals? Where do I see myself 5 years from now? Am I mentally prepared for this transition?? These are questions that I should have asked myself 4 years ago. As an incoming freshman, I can say that I was not mentally prepared for the transition from high school to college. When I entered DePaul, I was in a mental state of shock. I had multitudes of homework within the first two weeks of school and terrible time management skills. One can imagine the outcome... I actually failed one course freshman year. I was at an all time low after that experience, but ever since that horrid quarter, I pledged to succeed. I manage my time very well now and I?ve been on the dean?s list multiple times since then. I just made the dean?s list again with a 3.767 GPA! Just know that you are ready for this new, expensive chapter of your life. Remember: tutors, counselors, and advisors are there to help you achieve greatness! Be wise and best wishes!

Don't be in denial about the type of student you/your child is. Be sure to set realistic goals for yourself. Be sure the school offers a curriculm that you want to major in. Research the school, visit the school, talk with advisors, staff, students. Check out the tution and financial aid available. Research scholarships that are available that part is a lot of work and research. Develop a timeline guide for everything. Be very organized. Write down and ask questions about everything, programs, housing, tutoring, counseling, security, meal plans, etc. Be sure that if you accept . Don't be afraid or get discouraged. There is plenty of assistance for helping you understand everything from applications to scholarships. Be patient.

When choosing the college you want to attend, it's important to look into what the university offers and if they provide what you need as an individual-- not just academically but in extracurriculars and social activities. Make sure the college includes all your passions, even those you may not pursue for a degree, because it is important to know your options and test the waters. Think about what you want out of your college experience, write it down and then look for those attributes in the colleges and universities you decide to visit/research/apply to.

My dream was to attend a University in a large city. I have been able to make that dream come true. I would advise that the student should follow their dream to make the most of their college experience.

Make sure yoour finances are in place. My school was very expensive and I am now struggling very much financially because of it. Do not go in without a pplan, but if you do not like what you initially want, it is good to find something you like. But most of all be fun and outgoing, and you will make many lifetime frinds.

Make sure whatever schools you are researching will fit the student's goals and personality. Many students will look at the reputation of a school, or its location, and don't consider how they will find their own place there.

Go to a community or junior college for the first year or two. Saves money and prepares you better.

It might take awhile, but no matter where you end up it will be right for you. It took me until the last week of freshman year to realize that I loved my school and didn't want to leave for the summer. If for some reason you do transfer schools, you'll have learned something and grown with the experiences you had along the way. Taking chances and trying new things is the best way to learn throughout college. That might be in the classroom, but it may be outside, going new places, meeting people, or studying abroad. The perfect school for you may not be the one you always thought it would be. Be prepared to change and realize that no matter what, your experience will be what you make of it. So be open to making it great!