Grand Valley State University Top Questions

I would recommend applying to and viewing as many colleges as you can while in high school just to keep your options open. I did not check out very many colleges, although I was fortunate in attending one that I really enjoy but not everyone is so lucky. Most universities offer roughly the same opportunities (sporting events, social clubs, academic majors, etc.) but it's the smaller things that count.

Be sure to visit the college campus, as well as speak to administration at the school. Keep an open mind as well. You never know, the school you choose may be the best school for you.

First, decide how far you really want to be away from home. Remember, even if you are excited to get away and start your new life on your own, you are still going to get home sick and being in another state where you are totally unable to get home is going to make your life miserable. After you decide that, search with those specifics in mind.

The most important thing to remember when choosing a college is to NOT follow the crowd . What fits for your friends, may not be the best fit for you. It may be tempting to follow friends and classmates, but its important to consider your needs and comfort. If you are nervious about "going it alone" at a new school that is okay, most new college students are. Just remember that your new dorm-mates are in the same position as you and are eeger to make new friends too. If you are a shy person, like myself, I found that joining a campus club or organization really helped. This places you in a smaller more controlled environemnt, than the dorms, and this can really help in forming personal relationships with new individuals.

First look for something where the student is interested like history, art, or science. Then look at the campus because honestly the student will be living there and studying there, they need a place that fits them.

To parents or students looking for the right college I would advise to visit. That is the most important thing when chosing a college. I did not visit Grand Valley before actually attending. If I had visited the three colleges I was admitted it would have made the deicision easier. It is a waste of money to take the risk of sending your child to a college they end up hating. In the end, if credits do not transfer then parents are wasting their money. Parents want their child to have the best college experience at a school they love. Students should visit the school and figure out if it feels right to them. If a student visits a college and liked the feel then most likely will enjoy attending there. My best advice is to visit the colleges the student might want to attend.

Pay attention to the opportunities available to you at any college you apply too and pay attention to the amount of scholarships they offer. Choose the college that would make you happy not your parents.

My advice would be don't be afraid to explore. Ask questions. Take trips to colleges even if it is several. Find out as much information as your heart desires. College is teh time in your life when it now becomes your decesion to coninue your education or not. It is not required to go to college. College is when you have to make decesions for yourself and follow your own heart. Get involved with clubs, organizations, sports, events. College is the time when your getting an education to make a career out of one day so enjoy it while you can. I am a student whois transfering to a university from a college. I started out a college fresh out of high school. I found that it is not the place for me. I feel lost there and left out. So I encourage you to consider other options, dont regret going to a college then deciding you want to transfer. Its ok to not find your place, but then take the steps needed to do so.

Parents: Although it may be tough, allow your child to walk to the rope on their own and explore new things. Make sure to call every once in awhile, because no matter what we say, a call from home always makes us feel safe. Students: Be ready to work, hard, but also be ready to make those lifelong friends your parents are always telling you about. Focus on your studies because when you become a junior/senior you will really be happy you stayed focus. Get involved. Being involved is so crucial. Most of all, find the right path for you, because in the end you will be living it and you never want to look back and think "I should have done that." Of course, have fun, too!

Be sure to take time to check out where the student will live and visit the surrounding businesses and city to make sure that not only will campus provide an enjoyable atmosphere but that the area provides some fun as well.