Erin
It's really important to experience as many aspects of the college as possible before making your decision. Find out if the school will let you sit in on classes, whether it offers overnight stays with students and campus tours, or visit a friend who already attends the school. Ask other students what they like most and what they like least about the school. Visit the surrounding areas to get a feel for the availability of weekend entertainment and other dining options. Find out whether the school has an internship program, travel opportunities, or other ways to experience the real world while you're in school. You'll never get a better chance to intern or study abroad than in college. College is a unique time in your life, where everybody around you is all working toward the same goal, where everybody is interested in learning and growing and experiencing life in similar ways. Make the most of your college experience by balencing work and play. Employers value a positive attitude and likeable personality almost as much as, and in many cases even more than, book smarts. So have fun! And enjoy the naps and long holidays while you can!
Jess
Pick the school that makes you feel at home. I started off playing basketball for Presbyterian College and wasn't happy with our coach, I could have transferred to any of the other schools that recruited me but I simply couldn't see myself wearing any other uniform. I loved PC that much. Now I am a full scholership women's golf team captain and I am so glad that I chose the school that made me feel so at home that I would do anything to stay there.
Jacob
Choose a college based on career preparation and the oppurtunity that the school provides, and not the popularity of the sports teams.
Allison
Visit the college and allow your child to spend a weekend at the colleges of their choice.
Zak
Keep your options open and visit the campus as much as possible to get an idea of the situation your child will be engaging . Do your research on the school and find out about the class sizes, the school's reputation, the professors, the social life, etc.
Edwin
Visit any campuses that you or your child is considering attending, and don't count out a school simply because it seems too far away. Better to drive a little further and find the best fit than to settle. Also, remember that a school is largely what you make out of it. Even if you're not the typical "University of __________" student, most likely there are people on campus with whom you share common interests and can forge great friendships. Better to have a few truly solid relationships than to be able to say you know everyone on campus but lack any intimate connections.