ori
I found it the easiest to say go where you are comfortable and at home because it will be your home for the next 4 or 5 years. At the same time go to a place that will challenge you to expand your mind and you thoughts,wiht room to grow in a safe enviornment.
Johnna
When taking tours of schools, don't listen to what the ambassadors tell you. Watch the students and people on campus interact. When they give you breaks, definitely try to talk to people there. It will give you a great idea of how the school really is. The right college isn't about what will get you the best job, it is about a place where you feel safe and secure. It is only in a place like this that you can find yourself and the path you want to walk through in life.
Matthew
The perfect school probably will not be your first-choice school; young adults will make life out of what they're given - so find a place that is student-centric in attitude, with a diverse and comfortable number of students. Don't let distance matter; the perfect school for you is the one that you attend. Live on campus, meet as many people as possible, and don't be afraid to chase your dreams. The only regret you should have in college is having not met enough people, tried too many organizations, or laughed too hard. Enjoy it - it is the best time of your life, and will create for you a life in your future.
Jessica
Making the most of your college experience. Try to experience as much as possible. Go outside of your comfort zone. Take a random class.
As a High School senior I chose to attend college out of state so that I wouldn't know anyone around me. I would not trade that experience for the world. Everyone that I met was new. Everyone had a story to share.
As a College Freshmen I had already chosen my major, nursing, however, through taking required classes outside my major I found that I was passionate about serving the community. My new majors became Nonprofit Leadership and Theology. I have thourghly enjoyed participating in both majors as well as getting my feet wet with multiple internships.
Looking back after graduation I know that the hardest semester that I had emotionally was my first semester, not knowing anyone, being in a new city. My hardest semester accademically was my last semester, I was taking 23 credits so that I could finish a semester early. My last semester was also my favorite semester. The friends that I made and have kept are the best friends anyone could ask for.
Take classes that are right for you.
Mary
I would definitely encourage students to get involved with on-campus activities to meet new people, and service opportuinities. It is so imporant to manage your time by not taking on too much. I believe an emense amount of schoolwork is the number one cause for depression and a general sense of unhappiness among the student body.
Kyle
I would suggest focusing on what finding a school that is most geared around what you are looking to study, and also fits your personality the most. College is about getting an education, but the extra-curricular activities are also key to enjoying your college experience. I would recommend a parent or student looking for the right college find out what ammenities the school offers to get you ahead in life. It comes down to finding that happy medium of what you are looking for with school size, learning environment, city/town atmosphere, and ability to have an enjoyable experience.
Zach
Take your time and go where you think you will be happy. The rest will sort itself out.
Laura
I would advise that finding out as much as you can about the school that you are considering will only help you with your decision. Knowing yourself and what you expect from the college experience will help you narrow your choices down. I grew up in a very small academic community, so I knew that I wanted that for my college experience.
Sara
go to college fairs, give private schools a chance because they have good scholarships and can be cheaper than state schools. balance school and fun but be spontaneous too!
Sarah
The most important thing to consider when searching for the college that's right for you is how you feel when you visit their campus. I know this may sound corny, but they say you "just know" when a college is where you want to be. I would definitely recommend visiting each college you apply to because it's a big help to see what it's like to live there and be a part of the campus and its activities. If you don't like what you see and feel when you visit a college then it may be time to reconsider. I know academics and other activities are important , but you won't feel like participating in anything if you hate being at school. I think in order to really do well at college you have to love being a part of the school you choose.