George Washington University Top Questions

Knowing yourself is the most important step. For some, no matter where you end up, you know you will adjust and make the best of the situation. For others, being close to home or close to friends is the defining factor. Most importantly, though, college is a learning experience. It isn't an end-all. Make an educated decision based on the criteria you are looking for, but know that in the end it will work out if you approach it with an open mind and give the school a chance. Once here, though, be as open-minded as possible. Get involved in as many activities as you can: the friendships formed will be lifelong and the experiences cherished as some of your best.

Visit as many schools as you possibly can before making a decision. Nothing replaces actually visiting the campus and seeing what the atmosphere is like for yourself. Once you get to college, don't just wait around for friends to come to you; be proactive and take every opportunity you can. I'm a total introvert, so I really didn't get as involved in campus life in four years as I wish I had, and now, as a senior, I really regret not taking enough advantage of the many opportunities offered by my school.

Make sure you go and visit the colleges you want to attend. Make sure all your paperwork is in on time. Take advantage of an interview, even if it's optional, and send a handwritten thank you note after! Connect with someone from campus admissions so they'll remember you and pass on your name. Realize that you don't have to be best friends with your roommates, you're just roommates who might become friends. Go explore ouside of campus!

I would say try to live a balanced life. Have fun while you can but be responsible!

Make a list of the most important attributes of a school. Some people put geographical location first, others put financial aid awards, others prestige. Once you know what is most important to you, you will make the right decision. I do not beleive there is only one perfect school for a person, there can be many. College is what you make out of it. With the right friends and attitude, most schools can be your perfect school.

While financial aid may be an important factor in deciding which school to attend, it is even more important to choose a school one is comfortable with. One of the biggest comfort indicators is the size of the school and the level of surrounding life. A large school will have many opportunities to branch out, while a smaller school may offer more focused activities. A school in a city tends to be very active at most hours of the day, with things to do all the time. A suburban or rural school would probably feel safer, and be more quiet, especially in the evenings. It is also important to find out how much a school can support the student's interests. How modern is the equipemtn in the Engineering labs, for example. Visiting the school is a desent way of finding out about it, but in addition to the guided tour, it may be benefitial to step off the beaten path and ask the students how they feel about their school. Visiting more than once, especially in different times of the year, might also give a sense of the climate, a very important aspect of life.

Take your time when choosing a school--you're going to be there for the next four years of your life. Also, parents, back off. I know you'll be paying for it, but it's your child that is going to have to live with it. Definitely visit the campus. Go on the tour with the people from the vistor's center, but also take your own tour. You will see more of the capus life on your own than you will with a group. Walk around and get a feel for the size of the campus. If you can, try to sit in on a class. If you think you have a focus for what you want to study thats amazing, but be sure to pick a school that offers many options because chances are, you will change your mind in another 6 months.

Make sure you like the school, and the atmosphere.

Go with your gut feeling when visiting a college campus. Go to the school you feel like you belong at and can see yourself feeling comfortable at. During college make the most of all the resources available to you. Have an internship, visit the career center, and get tutoring if you need it. Also, join some student orgs. I met all my roommates through college democrats.

I would advise parents to listen to what their child wants in a school and support them completely in their decision. With parental support, the transition process is much easier. To make the most of the college experience, definitely join an activity on campus where you can meet people with similiar interests. I did, and that's where some of my best friends come from. Definitely be involved, do something you love, and stay focused. Go out and have fun as well! Balance work and fun and you will have the best experience.