Karen
visit your colleges, spend the night, "shadow" a student for a day. once there, talk to people other than the person hosting you, because they will probably make the school sound better than it is. they won't necessarily lie, but they won't tell you everything. however, other students probably will.
Noelle
When you are looking for a school, think about what is right for you (or your child) as a person. Do not simply choose a school for its name or "prestigious" reputation. Look at what the school has to offer you as a student, and whether or not it is the type of institution that will help you work towards achieving your dreams. You cannot base your decision on everyone else's opinions. You must make this decision on your own, with your own best interests in mind. Choose a school that emphasizes your values, but that will give you insight to the values of others. Most importantly, find an institution that has your major of choice, or gives you several strong options if you are undecided.
Megan
When faced with the difficult decision of choosing a college, I would suggest that students truly take into consideration all aspects of their potential schools. While receiving a prime education should undoubtedly be the first priority, smaller factors such as the school's location, extracurricular opportunities, and social life should be additionally considered to achieve the best college experience. For parents, depending on financial situations, such factors might also include financial aid provided by candidate schools. After narrowing down the endless possibilities to one single college, the actual experience begins. Anticipating the arrival to school might include purchases of dorm supplies and talking to an unknown roommate; but the time spent on campus truly marks what some might consider the best time of your life. My one piece of advice would be to get involved. This not only includes getting involved in the classroom, but outside of the classroom as well: playing intramural sports, joining clubs and attending school-sponsored activites. Consider these activities as an investment for making lifelong friends to share memorable experiences with that will be carried beyond the college years, ever validating that diffcult decision in choosing a college and knowing you made the right choice.