Victoria
Don't be afraid of not knowing what you want from your future. It's often best to go into any college experience with an open mind and allow yourself the freedom to explore and fall in love with a subject. Take "wild" courses and involve yourself in new extra-curriculars. Do the things you've always wanted to do but never had the opportunity to. College is a compendium of four years of growth and realization. How can you ever discover yourself and your passions if you 'play-it-safe' and stick with the activities and people you have simply become used to? If you want to find the right college, you need to visit the campus and envision yourself there--try to see how it would be if the weather was despodent and gloomy, for example. Could you still see yourself enjoying the experience? If you are undecided in what you want to pursue as a major, look at the strengths of school in all of the fields offered--are there any truly outstanding programs you want to try and professors you want to work with? Finally, remember that your dream school isn't always your 'right' school!
Christine
Do your research. Look beyond the college's promotional material. Take a campus visit and ask current students what they think of their school; they will be much more likely to give you honest, candid responses than the admissions officers will. Sit in on a class- see if the professor interacts with the students, see how large the classes are, see if students seem engaged in the material. It's the next four years of your life on the line. A few weeks of research is totally worth it.
Victor
Go far far away from home. Being on your own is one of the toughest and most rewarding experiences of your life.
Monique
It's definitely important to visit the school beforehand, although you won't know everything about it just from one weekend. Try to get the most from your classes while you're taking them, and don't blow them off during the semester. Chances are, if you signed up for them, you were at least somewhat interested in the class topic and you'll wish that you had learned as much as possible after, if not for your grades, then just for your own personal fulfillment. That being said, don't stress out too much over the little things. Give your best to your studies but also take time for the things that you enjoy- both extracurricular activities, as well as spending time with your friends and getting to know the city or town that your college is in.