Illinois College Top Questions

I would invite all students and parents to look at all options and visit as many potential colleges as possible. Some smaller colleges/universities have much more to offer than larger universities and may be a better option. Don't only look at sports and other clubs associated with a certain college; don't forget to check out the financial aid available and look around the campus at the library, dining facilities, etc.

The most important part in choosing a college is that it needs to feel like you belong there and that you will be accepted. This isn't always going to be the student's first choice. To make the most out of a college experience is to get out there and communicate with others and try things you wouldn't normally. If it sounds interesting, go out and do it. It's the best way to make new friends with people you have something in common with!

Really consider what you want out of college. If you go someplace that doesn't fit, then you wont be happy no matter what you are involved in. Also, visit on a weekend that isn't an official visiting day, you will really get to see what the campus is like.

Visit as many schools as you can! During each visit, take notes so you can easily compare the schools later. Pictures can be helpful as well. If a visit is impossible, look at the school's website, and try to get in touch with faculty and students to learn as much as you can about the campus itself, courseload, class availability, social scene, faculty accessibility, etc. Checklists and lists of pros and cons are great ways to compare schools once the research is finished. Once you get there: Talk to everybody, especially if they seem different from you. Even if you're sure of what you want to study and what you want to do with your degree, branch out into other disciplines as much as possible. Familiarize yourself with the library BEFORE midterms; in fact, take advantage of all the school's resources. Look into every club that is remotely interesting. If you get the chance to study abroad, take it. Try to get to know your professors. Above all else, don't take the college experience for granted--it ends too soon.

For the parents, I would tell them that its important for their child to see all the possible colleges out there in order to find the best college for them. Also I would tell them that when the day comes they should trust that they raised their child to make the best decisions while they are at college. As for students, I would tell them that they should look at all possible schools even if they have not received an acceptance letter because the longer you wait the harder it is to visit colleges. Also, when it comes to choosing a college you may find that the college you who offers the best opportunites for your future, may not be the school you had your eyes set on since you were a little kid. Once, you find that college it is important to get involved as much as possible. Not only is it the easiest way to meet new people, it also looks good to future employers. Its important to not overwhelm yourself with extra curricular activities, but it is important to enjoy every day you have at school. You will make friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

You know how people say when you're in love, you just know it? They may not be able to describe being in love in any other way other than, "I just know." That's how it feels when you find the right college. I visited Illinois College during my senior year of high school, and from that day on, I knew I it was my destiny. Sure, I had cheaper options, but IC just seemed to fit me, so all other options were forgotten about. I suggest visiting as many colleges as you can until you find the one that feels right. Then you'll just know. Once you're at your dream school, it's up to you to make the most of your college experience. I highly suggest getting as involved as possible without disturbing your mentality. Don't be afraid to talk to new people, because chances are, they're afraid too. College isn't just about learning in the classroom, so experience as much as you can during those four precious years. But no matter what, hold strongly to your morals and stay true to yourself.

Vist as many colleges as possible. Don't just talk to the tour guide.-talk to random people on campus. Look a the institution's curriculum. Go inside the dorms. Sit in on classes. Talk to the financial aid department. Apply for scholarships! When you're at college, even if you're homesick, don't go home! Weekends is when relationships are formed and when the interesting stuff happens. Have fun but don't go overboard. Remember, you're there to learn! If you work hard during the week, you'll have plenty of time to have fun on the weekends. You'll find it tempting to skip class. A few skips is okay, but don't make it a habit. Make an effort to talk to professors. Don't be afraid of going to the library. Ask questions-professors love it ;) Be courteous to your roommate. You may be stuck with them for awhile. Most importantly-enjoy being in college! It can be awesome if you do it right but it flies by!

Pick a school that fits you. Many high school students are concerned with getting as far away as possible, but that doesn't always work out. If I could do it over, I would have lived at home and gone to a school close by.

Find a place that fits, but take seriously the advice of parents and relatives who really do know what they are talking about!

Go look at many colleges. Don't just apply. College is like a pair of jeans you just have to find what fits. After finding a college get invovled, go check things out. Making the experience worth while. Remember what is important, you are going to school to learn not to party. You have to grow up sometime.