Mark
In order to find the right college for your children, you need to understand what your childrens likes and dislikes are. For prospective students, you need to understand where you are academically and socially before choosing a college. If you are a strong student, then go to a college that can offer different sorts of financial aid for which you can apply. For prospective students, go to a football game, or maybe just walk around campus before a home game to experience tailgating (Without Mom and Dad). Football games tend to bring out all the social networks, so if you feel that the atmosphere is one you enjoy, then you most likely will fit right in at the college. If football games arent your thing, don't go to school in the SEC.
Laura
If I had a younger sibling or was giving advice to a parent about choosing a college for their child, I would advise them to pick the college where they can see themselves sitting in the library studying, being active in campus organizations, and where they genuinely feel a passion toward their school's environment. Physical surroundings are very important and choosing a campus that offers bicycle paths, a lake, and a grassy quad are all features that maintain peace and comfort to a busy, over worked college student. Once they choose a college that is the best fit for them, the next thing I would advise them to do is it meet many people, attend class, not regularly, but every class, find students who share the same goals, and to not be afraid to visit a professor or actually get to know them. I feel I picked the right college because even though classes may get me down, I can walk outside of a classroom and find peace with the students and environment I am surrounded in. I have picked the right campus, the right friends, and the right major and I owe that all to Louisiana State University.
Madison
Look into the colleges, but also the communities. You need to feel comfortable in the city of your college as well. Make sure it is a place you feel safe. Make sure it reminds you of home in some ways, but also gives you a feel for somewhere new. If you're going out of state, look up ways to waive out of state fees (scholarships, ACT/SAT scores, etc.). If you're religious, pray about it. Get involved right away. Your friends may be your saving grace freshman year. Don't give up after one semester because it gets better. Realize that you don't get a second chance in college. Make the most of these days because they fly by faster than you know!
Brian
I would say that you should take a tour of several colleges before making up your mind about where you want to go. Also, you have to decide whether you want to go away from home, or stay nearby and live at home. Also, if you go away from home, do you want to be far from home, or do you want to be away from home, but close enough that you can come home on weekends if you want to . Try to take classes that you need for your major and don't just take classes to fill in with things you don't need. Talk to your advisor to stay on track, so you can graduate on time. Go to classes everyday (or whenever scheduled) . Don't skip classes. If you do what is expected of you by your professors, you should do fine. College is a learning experience, but, go and have fun and enjoy your time there!
Marianne
Look around at more than one college or university. Do not settle for less than your expectations. Enjoying your college years is important and you do not want to deal with transferring or dropping out when you realize where you choose isn't what you wanted. Get involved in clubs or organizations once you get to college. It is a great way to meet friends and have something other than studying to look forward to.
Patscianna
First and foremost, parents and students should make sure to research their top choices in order to determine if the school fits the student. Also, they should plan to visit those schools that seem to fit and talk with current students (not just faculty and administrators) to get a good idea of how happy students are there. If the student ends up attending a school that he/she is unhappy with, then he/she should transfer as soon as possible. Good luck!
Cassie
How many times have you heard, "college is the most fun you will ever have,"? Well I heard it all throughout my life. I could'nt wait to finally get to school. I had no idea how hard college was going to be. I was not prepared for the transition. Looking back I was so ready to be a college student and make my parents proud that I made a huge mistake. I studied and did well in school, but I let my social life become non-existent. I was so concerned about making good grades that I kept myself locked in my dorm room most of the time. I was extemely lonely. It was definatly not the most fun I had ever had. I was miserable.
New students coming into college, relax. Don't let the stress of classes and schoolwork get in your way of friendship and some fun. While grades are important ,so is your happiness ,and I dont know anyone who is happy all alone in their dorm room.
Megan
My best adivce would be to go where you, or your child, feels comfortable. Ask yoursefl, or you child, where they can imagine themselves- not just in terms of the campus, but campus activities, clubs, sports, etc. Also, don't be afriad to make the most out of your college experience. Do things that are unconventional, and meet as many people as you can. The best part about college are the experiences you have and the friends you walk away with- whether a study partner or a sorority sister.
Zotarealil
If you so happen to be attracted to a college and it seems too big dont let that be your deteran, know that there is a possibility to meet new people and the teacher always have office hours you will be fine. Make the best of the situation and you will be successful and do fine in school.
Kathryn
MAKE THE BETS OF WHEREEVER YOU GO BECAUSE EVERY SCHOOL CAN BE THE ONE FOR YOU.