Furman University Top Questions

Find a college that suits your personality. Academics are important, but they are not everything. I spent a great deal of time filling out applications to colleges that I wanted to go to simply because they were prestigious. When I didn't get in to them, I thought my life was over. My backup school, Furman, had a beautiful campus and a nice feel and personality to it, but it was not as high up on the rankings as I would have liked. Truth is that if I had gotten into any of my first choices I would not have been nearly as happy as I am now. I love my school, and it is plenty challenging and prestigious. There is no need to go to Harvard or Yale. If you work hard enough, you will excel anywhere. I have probably recieved more learning and growth going to Furman than I ever would have at an Ivy. Don't sweat it! No matter where you end up, you'll love it. It's college!

Stay overnight on a weekend to see if you really like the place you've applied to.

Students: Don't look at schools based on the social life or what your parents don't want you to go to. When you visit, ask yourself if you can picture yourself in the surroundings. Do the people seem nice and welcoming? If you feel comfortable, then you'll fit right in and studying will not be a problem. Also meet with the professors in the field that you plan to major in, this can really help you. Parents: Don't pressure your child in pursuing the dream that you never got a chance to do. Instead of pushing them, just stand beside them and aide them in the process. Help them develop a checklist in what they expect out of a university and help them visit as many colleges as possible. Carry that checklist around, and see if they fit. If that school doesn't meat at least half of the list, cancel out the school right away. Also, make sure the finances are in order. You don't want to worry about how you're going to pay for their education while they are in school.

Look at as many schools as you can and apply for lots of scholarships! (even the competitive ones that you don't think you'll get...hey, you never know)

The job of the admissions staff is to convince you to come to that school, so take everything you see when looking at a college with a grain of salt. Try to stay on an overnight visit if you can to get a better idea of the school and to talk to real students. Really weight the pros and cons of each school to determine where you fit best economically, academically and socially. And don't take yourself too seriously, college is supposed to be the best years of your life.

It is crucial to explore many different options when choosing a college. Look at all types and try to figure out exactly what you want. Don't be afraid do go somewhere totally different than where your family or friends go! Take risks; they will definately pay off. Don't be afraid to dream big and strive for excellence. Go into college with an open mind and heart which is searching to learn new things and experience new people, cultures, and lifestyles. Make the most out of college by involving yourself not only academically, but also socially.

Prospectives should take college tours and take advantage of overnight stays, if the university provides them. Try and experience the campus without your parents, because they won't be there while you attend. When you find the right school, you will feel it. Some say it's like coming home, some say it felt like a tingle in their spine, and I just inherently knew, but there will definitely be a feeling. Your college experience won't be perfect. There will highs and lows, moments of elation and moments of bitter grief, but each moment will help to define who you become. High school teaches how the world works. In college, you learn how you work. You figure out what you need. You figure out who you are. The time-old mantra is to "make the most of your years." That statement is absolutely true. After college, responsibilities will weigh you down. So make mistakes. Go skinny dipping. Climb a mountain or learn to surf or take a midnight roadtrip. Reach out and touch peoples' lives. Build lasting friendships. Discover who you are, what little kernel of truth is essentially you, and hold onto it no matter what.

Most importantly, never, EVER refrain from applying because of cost! When I applied to my college, it had the highest tuition of any school on my list. However, Expensive University offered far more financial aid than the others, and now I pay less to go to "Expensive" University than I would at any of the others. It never hurts to see what they'll offer you! Second, if you don't get into #1 Perfect University, you certainly may spend an afternoon in shock and gloom, but move on quickly. It's simply not where you were meant to go, and you will probably be pleased as punch wherever you end up--most people are. I know I am! And to ensure that you'll be accepted somewhere that you'll love, apply to at least 5 schools. Many offer discounted or free online apps. The more you apply, the better your chances! Finally, use all your resources. I found out about my school through an internet college search engine! Counselors, teachers, school alumni, books, and the Internet can open your eyes to excellent schools, so use them to their fullest. Best of luck in wherever your search takes you!

Higher tuition does NOT equal a better school.

First and foremost, know what you want out of your college experience. Know what size school you want. If you do not know what you want to major in, make sure the college you choose has all the majors you are looking at and has an easy way to switch majors. Once you are in college, get involved on campus. Choose activities that actually interest you; the quality of your activities is more important than the quantity. Try new things! Always remember that your academics should come before extracurricular activities. College is about finding out who you are, what you are good at, and what you want to do with the rest of your life. You are not expected to figure this out all in your freshman year. However, parents should expect many phone calls asking advice and guidance. College is when you realize that your parents are smarter than you ever thought they were. As you learn more about yourself do not be afraid to change majors and make new friends. My best advice is to have fun and study hard.