Florida International University Top Questions

I would encourage students to make college visits and see what their top choice schools have to offer based on what they plan to study. A student needs to feel completely comfortable with their learning environment in order to succeed and feel the want to learn. I feel I am a prime example that this is an important step because I was so set on going away to college and when I visited FIU in my hometown it just felt so right and that I belonged there, especially after I encountered their amazing architecture program and learning facilities. A student needs to feel that vibe in order to be assured it is where they should be attending school. Don't allow others to make decisions for you because in the end it is YOUR education and you will live with the diploma and the memories of college for the rest of your life.

In addition to looking at what academic programs the college offers, also consider the campus life, the surrounding city or town and also consider what type of lifestyle you would like to have at your new school. Make sure you are aware of the normal weather conditions.

The most important thing is that the student looking for the right school is well informed about the program/major that they are considering because that will number the number of colleges available. This may also inform the student about which schools are better for whichever field he/she is considering. For example, the program at my university was very good for the undergraduate program and was a lot closer to my home, allowing me to study there for the first four years of my education, and then move on to graduate school elsewhere. Finances should be next on the list of importance because the expenses incurred may be something that is completely out of reach due to the cost of tuition, distance away from home, housing expenses (off or on campus), and a number of other factors. While looking at the financial aspects of everything, it is also extremely important to research scholarships and loans that are available to the student because they offer an immense amount of help and may help bridge the gap between what is financially impossible and possible. These two factors should make choosing the right college a lot easier and an enjoyable experience.

My advice would be to focus on who the faculty are, and what the alumni have done with their lives within their professions. Also, it's important to note class sizes, and the facilities. Is everything well-kept? A school treats its students as it treats its buildings - if one appears neglected, chances are the other one is too. Look around. Does the student body feel unified? Or are they commuter students; there for class, only to drive straight home afterwards. Take a trip to the student center and watch student interaction. Speak with these students, because chances are, these people are the most involved on campus.

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Having stayed at home for college, based on my personal decision, and almost being done with school has made me reflect on that decision. I would definitely tell someone who is attending college to look into their option away from home, I believe it is the best way to fully experience college and everything it has to offer, plus, it will provide you with the sense of independence one needs while in college. Do a little research on the program you are interested in, and find out which school offers the best one, or the one that grabs your attention the most. Also, try to consider the campus, the diversity in the school's student/staff, because it will play a big role in making you feel comfortable when you arrive and start your career.

Finding the right college or University is about finding yourself first. what benefits you? what are your interests? and how can the school help you achieve your academic goals? You have to take these type of questions in consideration when looking for the right college/University.

The actual material that one learns in the first few years of college is uniform. For the most part, people get bunched into a classroom and are all taught the same things about each subject. The key is to choose a school that has "hands on" professors and people that have acquired extensive knowledge in their field. You don't want to feel like an outsider, or like you have to struggle to pass each day. In college, the less you think about it, the better it really is. Choose a school where you feel at home. Choose a place where you know you can make friends and have a social life, because that is just as big a part of college as learning. If it's all books, you can easily become stressed out, and you will need some way to socialize and relieve some stress. College has been the best few years of my life, because I have had great professors, and I was able to find that balance point with my social life as well.

I belive on of the most important factors about pickingh a college is whether you wish to live at home during your college years. Where you live during these crucial years changes you college experience entirely. During these years you should also try to be as involved in campus life as possible. That doesn't necesarrily mean joining a sorority/fraternity; there are alot of other collge clubs/organizations. While your in college it is also very important to register for classes on time and do research about the professor you are going to take. If you get a difficult professor you will surely end up dropping the class. Lastly, it is imporant to maintain a good routine during this time. If you get backtracked it is difficult to do well in a class. This routine should include exercising and studying everyday. Study groups are very helpful as well, jsut make sure you pick a group that actually studies!

The advice that I would give is to make sure and speak to faculty and students that currently attend the school ,so they can provide feedback on their experiences. I would also tell them to research as much as the can about the school and classes on their own and do not rely on advising to always steer you in the right path. I would tell the students to get invovled with the campus activities as much as possible and go to a school that best matches their personality.