Maggie
Although the college years for some people can be "the best years of your life", if you enter it in a blind and confuseed fashon. Before entering a college you should have a carrerr goal set in mind and develope your own college mission statment of things you want to accomplish. Make sure you try any and every opportunity you get. Whether you succeed or not doesn't matter, because you won't get the chance to play around with so much and discover things once you are out and on your own. Live each day as it was you last.
Kylene
You have to visit campus and find a place that fits your personality. After all, it is going to be your home. Also make sure that if you know what your major is, you know that the school has a good program so you don't waste time in awful classes or end up having to transfer. To make the most out of the experience- get involved. Be open to making new friends and don't get too stressed out about school. You aren't suppose to be able to do all of the homework anyways!
Kevin
Don't choose something too expensive, unless your kid is really really smart, because they will mess it up and kill themselves
Kirsten
First of all, do some research on what school has a good program for what major you have in mind. Then visit several colleges that you feel would benefit you and see if you get a particular vibe. Ask yourself if you can see yourself going to school there. However, if it doesn't feel just right, don't rule it out. The idea of going there might grow on you later. Also, try for a few schools that you feel might be a stretch--they may surprise you. Make a chart of all the important aspects of each school and rate them to see where you feel you fit best. A bit of advice that really helped me is that after you decide on a school, if you wake up the next morning feeling sick about it, it probably isn't the best choice. When you get to school, get involved with as many different groups as you can and meet as many people as you can. This will help you feel at home much quicker than staying couped up in your dorm room.
Michael
Find a college that has what you want in life. Don't travel too far from home, because having your parents around will be invaluable . Also always remember where you came from and explore different things that you wouldn't think would interest you. For example, look into greek life even if you aren't interested in it. You might find something that fits your style and personality. Also, study hard but make sure to have fun and make good friends too. These are the best years of your life, so live them to the fullest.
Samantha
if your child is very career oriented come to marquette. there is no other school as upbeat and foward looking than this school. its the best and worth the money. just dont let your child choose a stupid major because those students tend not to work as hard knowing their major is for slacking. it is very easy to major in multiple areas. I am majoring in accounting, international bus, and span. I studied abroad last summer and it was awesome. there are tons of oppertunities at marquette. most people take advantage of them.
Joanna
To students, simply be yourself and be open minded. This applies to both looking at colleges and beginning your college experience. While the two ideas may seem a bit contradictory, they are both important to making the most of your experiences. Hold on to the person you are when you enter college, but be open to the experiences that this chapter in your life will offer you. Join a club you may not have before. Try out a sport you didn't play in high school. Attend campus sponsored events. Get involved in a movement you feel passionate about. Strike up a conversation with someone even if you are shy. Let these experiences further mold you and allow you to set the tone for the rest of your life. And most of all, go into college with a smile. It may be frightening at first and it will be a lot of work, but allow yourself to enjoy all what college has to offer: the friends, the clubs, the sports, and the events which will make the four years you spend at college memorable.
And parents... don't worry and watch your student grow!
Stephanie
Highly recommend the students shadow and do an overnight at the university.
Molly
Finding a college while still in high school may seem like mission impossible. How are high school students suppose to know where they would be happy attending college, if they have never attended the college? My advice is to think about your values in life. For most people, this narrows to four values: family, friends, a bright future, and having fun. So, make sure you pick a college where you will be able to communicate with your family. Pick a college where you see yourself branching out to meet new, potentially lifelong friends. Also, pick a college where you will get the education you need to thrive in the future. Finally, pick a college where you can have fun in and out of the classroom. For example, if you enjoy sports, then find a school that has an intramurals program and school spirit. To make the most of your college experience, go in with an open mind. No matter what, you will feel outside your comfort zone at first. Feel like finding the right college is a guessing game? It is. But that is part of the beauty of the college experience: taking that first step and seeing what happens!
Maggie
In order to find the right colloege visit all the ones you are considering and make sure to stay overnight. Also, read online descriptions because some are schockingly accuarte. To make the most of your college experience be open to making new friends and listening to new ideas.