Illinois Institute of Technology Top Questions

Try to really get know the atmosphere and the coarse load, and typs of coarse offered. Remain focused and STUDY!

College is what you make of it. Focus less on reputation of the school and more on the student life. If you think you'd have a good life there then that's a good school for you as long as you work hard to make the academics worth it.

Make sure the college fits what you want to do.

Make sure to find a college that not only provides a good education, but is also situated in a place where you would like to live. The school's campus, surrounding area, and culture all play a huge role in your college experience. Don't underestimate the profound effect they will have on you; when it's time to take a short break from your schoolwork, you will want to enjoy it!

Research your school. Know what you want out of college. It's not all fun and games, and at times it is very time consuming. College is what you make of it, so come with a positive attitude, even in the light of people who aren't very positive. The friendships made here can last a lifetime, so choose wisely. This isn't high school so don't expect it to be. Be mature about the way you conduct yourself and try your best!

Guess. Take chances. Do what scares you.

Finding the best school is not always about money. If you think you'll be happy at one school then go there. Do not worry too much about cost, there are usally ways to get the money you need. Be accepting of your schoolmates. They really help you out through tough times. There were many times I was very close to transferring to a different school but having a close group of friends really help me keep focused (and on campus). Don't be afraid to explore. new things. Usually the best experiences you have in college are ones you've never done before. Drink, party, have fun, but remember to keep it in moderation. Finally, try to get away from home. You experience totally different things that in the long run, will make you a better person.

A big thing you should think about when selecting a college is to not be afraid of your options, embrace them. Limiting your higher education choices to a community college because of financial situations or the distance a school might be from home should not guide you to deciding the right college. Being in a completely different state with significant cultural differences and having to be responsible for oneself is how you/or your child will grow and develop for the corporate world. To make the most out of your college experience is to always get involved and be willing to get to know anyone and everyone. It might seem awkward and you can usually feel like you just want to deal with being in school and succeeding at it that you miss out on all the opportunities the school offers to have fun or get to know one another. This added interaction helps in the long run because not only is it a good destresser from the academic world, but it can be beneficial for the future when you need to get a job and can use those people skills while applying or working in a team.

I would advise them to attend the school for a day. Maybe get a tour but rely on your individual interaction. The tour guides tend to make the school seem alot alot better than it actually is. Ask students that are around how they like the school...they would be the most honest. Drive around the school to check out the campus or surrounding amenities. Let your son/daughter go to the offices and see if he/she can get questions answered without hassle. Find out how many computer labs exist as opposed to the attending students. You don't want your child to go somewhere where the resources are booked all the time. Besides that...take pictures if you are checking many colleges out. That way if you liike two of them alot for there educational services, the comfort of the campus is a deal breaker. The campus design is very important when it comes to comfort and convenience.

Make sure it's what you really want. If you think you are going to be homesick, you probably WILL be. Talk to current students at the university to find out what student life is really like. Current students give the best indication of work load, extracurricular activites, and overall condition of the classes. A college experience is what you make of it. If you continually look negatively on it, odds are you won't enjoy it. You need to make the right decision for you and your personality. Don't just go there because you have a friend who is or your parent is an alumni. Everybody is different and a crowded state school is probably not a great choice for someone who is really shy and introverted. Get involved with student organizations and clubs, it is the best way to meet people who share similar interests to yours.