Lafayette College Top Questions

The school you choose does not matter as much as the degree to which you committ yourself to the institution. College experiences are defined not just by facilities or professors or living styles, but by the relationships with the students. The way to form strong bonds with people is to join organizations that you are passionate about. By meeting other people that share your beliefs, you experience at college will be sunstantially improved.

Do your research and visit the school.

Chosing the right college is one of the most difficult things I have had to do. When looking up colleges, it is really difficult to find out what that college is really like. For example, while visiting my college, Lafayette College, the tour guides said that the greek system wasn't the main social scene on campus. However, once I got here, I discovered that it pretty much dominated all social life. Which, for me, was disappointing since I was not interested in joining a sorority. The best possible way to find out about a school is to do an overnight or speak to students on campus not hired by the college. They will most likely tell the truth about campus life. All around, I really don't like my school. But I have tried to find ways to make the best of it. For example, I would highly recommend going abroad. I had the best time of my life while studying abroad and all around found it to be a great experience. To deal being at a school I don't like I also have buried myself in academics since I am very intersted in my major.

Stay overnight without telling the college that you will. Then, you can see the school for what it really is. No pretty wrapping or facade.

Being active in the college search process is the most important aspect when trying to find the right school. In order to find where to attend, hearsay or a report in a magazines is not enough; students and parents need to engage themselves in what the schools provide to get any true idea of what the campus is like. This could come from a tour of the campus, maybe a visit to a sporting event , or better yet an overnight stay in which the potential student can share the full college experience with someone who really understands what it's like to be a part of the college community. Regardless of reputations, the overall feeling a school provides its students should be the major deciding factor in chosing a college or university given the desired area of study is present when considering one's individual strengths and preferences. Once at school, stay active in the community and take advantage all the opportunities that will undoubtedly be provided. College is a time of learning and growing... to miss out on the experience by watching the time pass would be a crime. Best of luck to all prospective parents and students.

There is no sure fire way of knowing where you fit. The best advice I could give, I think, is to listen to your gut- there are financial options for those who diligently seek them out- and realize that college is what you make it. You can find friends anywhere if you are genuinely looking for them. If you make the most of your college experience, and experience it on your terms, not those of some media-skewed stereotype or the values of the people you come to befriend, you will have no regrets, no matter what institution?s name is on your degree.

If you want to succeed, you will no matter where you go. However, there are a few things that can make it easier, depending on how you define your own personal success story. The college search is all about identifying priorities.

don't settle. you will be attending a school for four years, not your parents. this will be your experience and yours alone. don't let people pressure you into going somewhere you feel that you don't want to. have fun. don't break school policies because you WILL get into trouble. contrary to popular belief, college is NOT all about drinking and partying. it's a ginormous learning experience - both inside and outside the classroom. your RAs are your friends. not rent-a-cops. (That's public safety.) have fun! ^_^

When it comes to finding the right college I would just have to say to look at as many colleges as possible. Though I was lucky to find such a great school for me, I did not look into many options. Looking back on my college search I know I could have done a better job. Don't let anything get in your way of finding the right school for you. College is an important part of your life, and fing the perfect fit or at least a comfortable fit can really make a difference in your college experience. In the end, have fun and know that college is an amazing part of life where you will truly grow as a student, friend, athlete, or whatever hat you decide to wear!!

Find a school that is the right size, right location, and academically focused on your interests. If the school is too big or too small you will hate it and transfer. If the location is terrible, you will be miserable and probably transfer as well. I find these are the most commonly over looked aspects of the college search experience. Also, most schools will work with you financially so do not let the sticker price scare you away from applying; it is worth the chance.