Florida State University Top Questions

To the parents: Every day more and more students are realizing in their junior or senior year that their career isn't what they thought it was, therefore, they end up completely unsatisfied and lose motivation to work or they might change to a career they like, but they still lost valuable time. This can be corrected if the student is asked specific questions such as "If you were to go somewhere every morning for the rest of your life, feeling happy or satisfied, where would it be? (refering to an industry or specific workplace)" Depending on what the student answers, an explanation on how that job might be every day must be given, such as the pressures and responsibilities. It is preferable that the student is taken to a counselor who best knows about this. To the students: Do not pick a career just because it seems easy or pays well. The act or satisfaction of WANTING to go to work every day is something a couple of dollars cannot pay. If you are passionate about your career, I guarantee you will be one of the best in the field (which would put a high price on your service).

For all those students getting ready to attend college my advice would be to pick a college that makes you happy. Do not pick a college because a significant other is going there or because it will make your parents happy, pick the one that makes you happy because otherwise it will be a long four years. Also, make sure to get involved with on campus activities, such as clubs and organizations. This will allow you to make friendships that may last a lifetime as well as make for an amazing college experience. My other advice would be to put your school work first and your social life second. By all means, please go out and have fun, but do not let the fun interfere with your grades. Stay on top of your school work, get involved and have fun and your college experience will be a great one!

The best way to find the right college for you is research. Once you have decided on what you want to study, look up the schools that are known for that major. There are numerous internet resources that will lit schools on the cutting edge of their fields. Apply early to the schools you wish to attend and fill out applications for financial aid as soon as possible. Also figuring out the total financial costs of college is a must. Not just tutition costs, but room and board, books, travel expenses, and entertainment costs. Planning well in advance is the best option, don't procrastinate.

My advice for parents would be, let your kids decide where they want to go. They will be a lot happier that way. Students should make as many friends at college as possible because they will probably be your friends for life!

A campus visit is a must. I was undecided about my college choice, but once I went to visit the campus, I fell in love with the school, the programs, and the people. It was the entire package. Don't just look at academics, because you need to be happy and comfortable with your surroundings if you want to do well in whatever your chosen field is. Also, look into the professors in your desired program. See what they've done in research to make progress in their concetration. You want to be mentored by an indidivual who is actively doing work, and research to further understanding in their field. You should also talk to students already there! Ask them what they like, what they don't like, what dorm life is like, etc. Take advantage of the experiences that other students have already had. They're such a great resource, and most are completely willing to share with prospective students.

I would tell parents to allow their child to have the majority say in where they go to school. I would also tell parents to take their time and make sure to visit potential schools. Most importantly, support your child no matter what he or she chooses.

My advice to anyone who is planning to attend an institution of higher learning would be to visit the campus. It is vital that you explore the environment in which you are going to spend the bulk of you academic career. The right environment is a vital factor in achieving your academic potential. Also, be sure to take advantage what your campus has to offer. There are tons of campus events that will allow you to meet your fellow classmates and possible find something that you are passionate about. I got involved in volunteering by visiting one of the many student activity booths that are in our student union. Instead of hanging out in your cramped dorm room after class go out and explore your world! There are so many ways to network and meet people that could possible help you in your academic endeavors. I met most of my study group during freshman orientation week. We bonded while learning our school fight song and eating carnival food. Go out and meet people who you would not ordinarily associate with and expand your horizons. You?ll be all the better for it!

Finding the right college is a very difficult process, and an experience in and of itself. The best way to ensure that your choice is the right one is to consult the individuals who have the greatest knowledge in that area: teachers, advisors, and professionals in the work force. Finding a teacher or an advisor who understands your interests will make all the difference because they are trained to help find schools that best fit your personality and aspirations. Speaking to professionals in your fields of interest will help you as well. A professional can specify several schools that specialize in your field so that you may utilize your education wisely. While in college, be sure to enjoy what the local area has to offer. Whether it is recreation, food, relaxation, or entertainment, balancing a healthy mixture of leisurely activities and school work is the key to keeping your mind fresh and willing to learn. A college that offers activities you are interested in will help you to enjoy your educational experience and take away as much from it as possible. Attending the college that fits you best will help you make the most of your time there.

make sure to visit each school your considering. what is on paper can be completely different than what is actually there. if you cant see yourself at that school, then its probably not the one for you. take a tour, visit the student "services" (like the gym or the dining hall) , sit in on classes if you can. the everyday things is what makes the difference, so make sure you like the 'small' things. once you are there, GET INVOLVED! it is the best way to make friends, and make the most of your experience, not to mention it will help you find a job later on, either by having something to add to your resume, or by having those people to network with. and finally, dont take everything too seriously. have some fun! make sure you doing whats important to YOU

Please do not select a college based on bad information, i.e. "party school". Every student makes their college life what they want to be for all different reasons. Look at the academics and demographics offered. Don't hold out for one school. Make sure your go to the orientations when being offered, walk around campus and get the feel. Actions speak louder them words and brochures. Visit the eateries and dorms. ASK ALOT OF QUESTIONS! Students won't hestitate to tell you what they think! Parents, please don't become helicopter parents. Students don't call up parents for a bandaid. We made it this far. Go out and explore! We are all nervous about our new surroundings, new living quarters (ugh) food, and finding making some friends. Fill out your roommate specs carefully because you are together for a year, if your a grouch say your a grouch who knows your room - mate may be a grouch too! Lastly be yourself and listen. Network before jumping into the fire. Its a new chapter, a new journey in our lives, let's make the best of it.