Tyler
Do campus visits that arent sponsored by the school because the people you deal with are paid to make it look good so its not an accurate view of the school.
Kristin
When looking at schools, look for something you are comfortable with in terms of class size, professors, financial aid, etc.
Lindy
Find a college that fits your interests. I chose Mount Mercy because of the small friendly atmosphere, ability to be involved, the academic success, financial aid, and closeness to home. I came from a smaller school and that was something I continued to want, others may want a complete change. If you are undecided on a major try to start out at a community college to get your required classes out of the way (make sure they will transfer to any school you may choose later down the road). Don't make a choice based on if your friends or significant other is attending, but if it is hard for you to find friends see if any have decided to attend the same school you have chosen and room with them. This will make the change from high school much easier on both you and your families. When you have chosen your school try and talk to everyone you can, it's not what you know, but who you know. If you also get involved you are less likely to become homesick, but remember to write/call your family because they miss you too. Keep your studies first! Good Luck!
Lindsay
College is a tough but important decision that we all should think about. In order to make the decision that is best for you, you need to take time to weigh the pros and cons for each college you're considering. First think about what you want to do in your future, and it's ok if you aren't sure. Do some research on the computer and when you find some colleges you think would suit you, schedule a visit or even an overnight. Whatever you do, don't get stressed out about these decisions, it wont help. Talk to your parents about what is going through you mind as well, and also get thier input. Finally, picture yourself at the schools. Do they offer you exactly what you need, and can you picture yourself learning as much as possible while having the time of your life. It's a life changing experience, so enjoy it!
Randi
When selecting a college it is important to visit the college not only once, but a number of times. Everything is changing and expanding and it is important to see the changes that go on over time. Also drop into some classes, the professors at Mount Mercy are very welcoming to visitors and we often have parents and students sit in on classes to see what it is like. Meet some people in the area and ask about the school, but don?t base the decision on one person. In addition, look into the scholarships and grants the colleges offer, many parents and students turn away a college based on tuition, but by not asking an great opportunity could be overlooked. The college experience is what each individual person makes of it, personally it has been the best some of the best years of my life, meeting knew people and getting an idea of exactly what I want to do in my years to come.
Kayla
I would go to the college that makes the most sense academically for you, and the one you feel most at home at. When I first visited my school, I thought that it would be a very catholic-driven school that wasn't open to diversity. I was very wrong. Although my school is catholic, there are probably more non-catholics than there are catholics. Everyone, including Faculty, is very diverse and open to new ideas. When I walked around the campus, I could completely see myself there, and that's how I knew it's where I wanted to go. It's hard to leave your friends if they're all going to the same school but in the end it's worth it because you meet more people with the same interests as you and you also build new friendships that will last forever.
Audrey
I would encourage students to get out there and try to get involved. I know that it will seem that you have too many commitments and too much to do, but there are not many other times in your life you will get to experience new things and new people in such an accessible way. I also recommend living on campus, at least for a year. You might get a roommate you hate, but you will learn a lot about your classmates and yourself in the process. Learning to compromise is a huge benefit in life, and living with a stranger is a great way to learn. Also, don't be afraid to ask questions. If you don't understand something in class, or about your financial statement, find someone who knows. This is the time of your life to get over your fears and be independent. So when you are nervous, or feel dumb, or think you aren't going to make it remember that everyone else feels the exact same way. Just take a breath, smile, and pretend like you are confident in what you are doing because before you realize it you won't be pretending anymore.
Heather
Don't stop after looking at one...the more you look at the better options you get.
Morgan
Go to the campus and check it out, not just on the tours that they offer either. Really get to know what it's like before they try to glitz it up, you never know what tricks they may pull on those tours to make it seem better than it is. Once you find the campus that, in their actual form, is right for you: Get scholarships! it makes things much easier for the student if they don't have to work all the time while also attending classes.