Providence College Top Questions

To students: Research many colleges first, and apply to those that most fit your interests, and your major if you have one in mind. When you have applied, make visits to the top colleges on your list, especially to those that have accepted you. Once you have done this, pick the campus that feels most comfortable for you in every aspect -- size, ethnicity ratios, location, "homey" feel, whatever will make you most comfortable. Go to that college. When you get there, do not be afraid to do things -- join clubs, play sports, get involved and meet people. Make lots of friends, and as time goes on, you will pare these people down to those who will remain your friends for life. Be social, have fun, but most importantly, be yourself. Go to class, do your work, and get it in on time. Apply yourself to everything you do, and success will follow. And don't forget to call home, because your parents miss you as much as you miss them.

Having a good college experience is dependent upon finding a school with faculty that are deeply interested in their students. Feeling supported and encouraged are big factors in making classes enjoyable and enriching. Finding a school that's the right size for you is also very important, as well as keeping in mind the size of the campus and its surroundings. I also encourage students to explore their interests by joining clubs or committees in order to meet new people and enhance their learning experience.

let the student make the decision and don't be afraid to transfer

When I was deciding where to go for college, I knew I wanted to leave home and live life by myself for awhile. I really felt that if I didn't go to school far from home I might never find a way finally leave the area I grew up in. I know now I was probably right about that. My advice to students and parents of students thinking about going away for college would be this: don't be afraid. It's such a surreal and emotional experience to finally leave the nest, but I believe it was probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. I was of course hysterically crying when I said goodbye to my friends in family, and I wasn't sure if I did the right thing during the first few weeks of school. But after the initial awkwardness of meeting new people wore off, I finally discovered my group of friends and they really did become my second family. A very few amount of people get to attend college in the United States, though many people hope to. If you are fortunate enough to attend college, make the most of it.

I would tell parents and students to go and visit campuses around the country, or even in other countries, if funding allows you to do so. You will know when you set foot on the right campus, it may not be exactly what you want, but you will know once you set foot on campus whether or not it's the right fit for you. Also, once you begin your college experience, get involved and try new things. To the student, you will meet interesting and intriguing people just by joining clubs, don't spend every night in your dorm room, and go out on weekends, you will make some of the best friends and create the greatest memories of your life.