Florida State University Top Questions

Students- Decide on what you want out of your college experience. Do you want the classic, large school history or small school intimacy? Decide if you need to have a specific school because of their expertise and choose it wisely. Parents- Hold your students accountable, don't hand them everything on a silver platter, and support your students choice. GO NOLES!

Do not choose a school purely based on the major you want to pursue. If you choose a college that has your major, but has no extracurriculars, it could be miserable. Generally speaking, universities are more than willing to work with you so you can get the degree you want, while at the same time being in the atmosphere you want. This is such a huge choice and while it is possible to transfer, it can be a pain. Remember, majors are constantly changing... and your academic advisor will be your best friend.

In order to find the right college for you, I would recommend that each prospective college be visited by you and your parents personally to find how you adapt to the school's surroundings. You should also look into the best school for your major. Certain majors have more of a prestige at different colleges. Just because you and your friends have chosen a college to attend together, doesn't mean that it is the best one for what you plan to do with your future. Don't be afraid to branch out. If the friendship is true, it will last. Make sure to choose the college that fits best with not only your major but what you expect in a college as far as the activities go. You want to do well academically, but going to a school and not having a social life can affect you personally, and therefore affect your grades. Choosing a college that is the perfect fit for you is a very BIG deal. Choose wisely, and socialize! Being on your own is very hard, but if you have people around you when you need them, it makes the experience so much better.

I would tell students and parents to take advantage of the campus tours colleges offer to really check out a college and see if you fit there before you decide on where to go.

Personally, the biggest thing about choosing a college was visiting and learning about all of the different choices. It is necessary to consider how at home one feels when on the campus and the availability of things that are of interest to the individual, anywhere from Greek life to intermural sports to clubs and groups. It is no one else's decision so it must be hugely based on the connection you feel with the campus and school. There is plenty to do and the potential of being involved must be high as to keep you happier overall in the college experience. It really is all that it is cracked up to be and will most certainly be some of the best years of our lives.

I would advise parents and students to first visit as many schools as possible to find the best fit. So much of enjoying your college experience is feeling comfortable being at the school itself and utilizing what it has to offer. In my case, I felt at peace when I visited FSU's campus, which I value tremendously. I would also suggest finding out whatever you can about the programs that a potential college offers in the student's area of interest. The school's reputation for success in the field which the student is interested is so critical in choosing the appropriate university. Once in school, I would advise students to GET INVOLVED! If there is one thing I regret the most about my freshman year, it's being a little too shy and reserved and not finding a group or a cause that I felt connected to. Being involved in activites and interest groups helps students in numerous ways--it provides networking oppprtunities for jobs or academics, builds confidence, and ultimately gives students a healthy distraction from the hardships that come with being in college, like homesickness and stress associated with classes.

Be sure to visit every option and go on a campus tour. Explore all possibilities even if they are out of your price range, you never know what kind of scholarships you may receive. If you know what you want to do talk to an advisor, they can make or break your decision. Talk to students and see what they like most about the school. Notice if people are friendly or not. If you want to get involved in an activity, talk to the coach or head of the organization. Make a pro and con sheet to see what you like about each school. To make the most out of college definitely get involved! If you know people going to the same school that's great, but meet new people and form new friendships. Don't be afraid to try new things, you never know what you will find you are good at. Definitely do an internship, it's the best way to decide if what you are majoring is exactly what you want to do. Live in a dorm, it's a great way to get involved and be in the middle of everything!

There are obvious considerations and qualifications for any parent or student applying for higher education. Factors such as financial feasibility, location, and programs offered are, without a doubt, the primary concern for any potential applicant. But beyond the obvious provisos, there exists a level of gut instinct; does this college feel right? The simple truth about college life is that not every decision will make logical or emotional sense. These decisions, these choices, will inherently be some of the most difficult of your life. It is very likely that the outcomes may not be ideal. My strongest advice when it comes to dealing with the lack of ideal: Do not doubt your own potential. We as human beings have the ability to adapt, both physically and spiritually. Do not be afraid of the choices you are making today. These choices are simply providing you with the opportunity for adaptation and growth. Trust yourself to make the most of what you are dealt.

I would suggest not coming home every weekend. I would also say open yourself for new experiences, try not to be judgemental. I would also say that students should ask their parents for advice because they aren't dumb like we thought they were, our parents are VERY smart.

Look for a school that has as much of your needs as possible. There is more than just the major. Take a tour and look at the students walking by. Look at the surrounding area and the campus itself. Make sure the collage you are considering is a place you can look at every day with just enough quite and social places to fit you individual liking