Nichole
I would tell any student and their parents to chose the school that their heart is telling them to. If they do that, it will all work out the way it is supposed to. Also, to work hard because your education is one of the most important ingredients in the outcome of you fuuture. And finally, good luck and have fun!
Karissa
look into each program at the college you are thinking of going to, and make sure it is what you want to go into.
Lauren
To find the right college i would do a lot of research and really know what you would like your school to be like. Dont go where all your friends are going, you will make plenty of friends where ever you decide to go. And dont worry about picking your major ASAP it will come to you eventually just be patient. Another biggie would be filling out your FASFA as early as you can . It is really helpfull for paying for school and supplies.
As for making the most of your college experience, i would say to use what the school has to offer such as toutors, activites, and welcome week events it really boosts your networking with other students and the're fun! Also, do not worry about what other people think about you, this isnt highschool anymore and people arent going to make fun of you for sitting by yourself, dressing differently or for asking a question. So just go and be yourself and have fun...but not too much fun you just need to find what works for you. and remember teachers dont accept late homework anymore so dont skip class and keep up with your work!
Ethan
Make sure that you are ready to go and not going just beacuse someone else wants you to go. Choose the college based on where you want to go and not beacuse your friends are going.
Ashlie
Plan ahead.. I have spent a lot of time trying to figure out the system, and trying to learn the in's and out's of college becuase I am a first generation student. I didn't have guidance or help, from family members, so everything I've done has been through trial and error. Having a good knowledge of the processes; ie. applying, registering, attending class, scheduling appropriately to finish in the shortest amount of time are all key factors when looking into college. My best advice would be for students to go to school year around. You can knock out anywhere from 6-9 credits during the spring and summer semesters which can shorten your time at school tremendously. Knowing who to contact with questions and never being afraid to ask questions about the processes of college is important. Having an advisor and allowing them to help you through school is important. They know the school better than you will and they will know the things you need to know to be successful. Make the most of your college experience. Attend class and focus on having good relationships and college will be a positive experience.
Dan
When searching for the right college, campus visits are an absolute must. Do not just schedule them with an administrator. Be sure to do "surprise inspections" Drive and visit yourself. Take a stroll along campus during the week days and look at the students. Maybe talk to them and ask them about the school. Then come back and visit on the weekends. Find out what it will be like during the downtime when classes arn't in session. Also be sure to schedule an appointment as well. This will allow you to tour the facilities and see some classes in session. The only way to find out what its going to be like at a college is to go there and see for yourself.
Paul
Find the college that has the highest marks for the major you wish to complete. Attend the orientations of the colleges you wish to attend because you can get a great sense of what they expect of you plus you will get a feel for the kind of students that attend there and how they feel about that particular school.
Samskee
Go with your gut feeling about the school. If the social environment is great and the school properly accomodates the major(always have a backup major in case the first one falls through) you want to pursue, go for it. Just remember that your first choice is not always your last choice!
Have fun. College is that time where you get to do everything you have ever wanted to do. For me, I'm learning interactive design. I started out as a music performance/meteorology major. Never thought I would be in this field, but I am, and I've never been happier. I can only imagine how happy I will be once I graduate.
So, go out, get your education, and start planning your future!
Brandon
GO WILD, live life
Ashley
I would tell parents and students alike that college is the ride of my life. I would tell them that the student needs to work hard in high school and start early to find a place that suits you and your needs and wants as a growing adult. I would tell the students that they need to visit as many campuses as they can and make sure they feel comfortable where they are going to be for a number of years, making their own choices and decisions; paying their own utility bills, buying their own groceries, and waking themselves up for class. College is a very big step, and it is an extremely costly choice for a person to make and continue with. It's not always a walk in the park, but it is also the best learning experience I have had thus far.