Kelly
You get out of it what you put into it, pick a school that you will feel most comfortable at. Challange yourself so you don't get bored, but only take on what you can.
ashley
As a recruited student athlete, I was given this amazing opportunity because the coach believed I could bring discipline and focus to the team. I thought college would be easy since I aced everything in high school, but I found out quickly how demanding an institution like Hopkins is. Expect the first year to be difficult both academically and psychologically. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Do get involved and try new things. Clubs and sports are a great way to meet new people that can help you along the way. Understand that it requires excellent time management skills and do not put your school work off. The most important factor to remember in your college experience is that it lasts a very short time so make the most of it and enjoy yourself. Take classes that interest you, surprisingly you'll do better in them. The major does matter in some fields, but more importantly it is grades and fulfilling yourself as a person. Be realistic in what you hope to accomplish and wake up everyday and tell yourself just how lucky you are to be given the opportunity you have before you!
Julian
college is very different from high school
chris
having fun is the problem for students to solve.
having a opportunity at a job later is the problem for parents to solve (by getting their kids into school)
Ewa
Become involved in campus groups that you are passionate about. This is how I meet most of my friends.
Elizabeth
Take the time to go to the school and visit. Walk around campus, check out the library, walk into a lecture hall, visit a dorm, etc. Do you research as a family and pick the school that best suits the student!
Connie
Don't stress out about it! One thing I've learned in college is that for the most part I don't think it matters where you go! I'm happy at the school I'm attending now, but I'm sure I'd be happy at almost all of the schools I applied to. You'll find a group of people you get along with at probably any school--it just might take some time. Extra curriculars abound at most schools, and again most places offer a wide variety of classes. Pick your school with some care--but don't stress out about it; it's not like there is only one perfect school.
Katie
Don't be limited by rankings or the most "prestigious schools" - it's all about marketing, and the applicant has to look past the marketing and choose a school that is right for them.
Joshua
You really have to visit a school, attend some classes, eat some food, and talk to some students to get a feel for the environment. Don't do any superficial investigation.
Abby
An overnight visit at a college is a good idea if they offer it; you'll get to see what kind of students go there firsthand and if you would fit in, and having friends is really important--you'll get a good education wherever you go.