Jesse
I think its important to visit all types of colleges but they should narrow down based on size, how academically challeneged they want to be, and the area surrounding the school. These are the most important factors because they will affect your happiness at your school. I decided that fact that my school was in an urban aread didn't matter. Even though I love the school, I don't like that I sometimes don't feel safe in the area. This is important to consider.
Marjory
There are many things to consider when choosing a college or university. After all, your decision in this area dictates a significant portion of your future. There are so many schools in so many places that its understandably easy to become overwhelmed, but the thing to do is stick to the issues that are important to you. Before you start looking, make a list of specific things that are important to you: school/ class size, majors and minors, tuition cost range, housing, city attractions, diversity. That way when you do your research or begin actually looking into different universities you know which ones will be a fit for you.....and which ones won't. This simple step will save you a great deal of time, and it will help you narrow down your focus more quickly to the school that is the perfect fit for you.
Tyler
Make sure to pick a college that fits you personally. Don't just pick a local University because most of your friends are going there, don't pick a big school just because you want to party, and don't settle. Your high school friends will always be apart of your life but don't be afraid to go away and meet new people. You will be surprised how quickly you will adapt. College is a once in a lifetime experience so it is important to make sure you are content with the surroundings of the University. I know too many people that complain constantly about school but if you choose a school that fits your personality then I believe you will be happy. We have the rest of our lives to work but only 4 years in college so live it up and find the one that FITS you!
claire
I think that a student should go with their gut feeling about a school. This is a big decision, and there are so many options and ways to afford a college education. A student should really make time to meet people, and find surrounding areas to get involved on and off campus. Most importantly, live your life! College is a time of change and experience, and it's so important to be open minded because you can learn so many things about yourself.
Taylor
Choosing the right college or university is like a marriage. Make sure that when you make your decision that you are elated but understand that like all great marriages, there will be ups and downs. I would highly encourage prospective students to understand the philosophies of the institution they are planning on attending and make sure that it is in line with personal philosophies. It is important to take at least one if not a few over night visits to understand the dynamics of campus. In the end, do not settle with less than the perfect match.
Mary
They definately need to visit they campus, tour it with and without a guide. They also need to sit in some classes, see if they like the feel of the atmosphere. They need to tour around the campus, because the student will be living there, they need to see how safe the neighborhood is and how convient everything is to campus. If they know what their major is they need to make that school offers it and if they do sit down with the advisor for that major and have a talk with them about how long it will take to graduate. They also need to see if they are for example, trying to get into nursing school, what the prereqs are and see if they have to have a certain grade in those classes to get accepted into the program. But the big thing is it should be about how the student feels about the school and if they like it, they are going to be spending aronnd 10 months out of the year for 4 years their; they need to be comfortable with that school of their choice.
I
Seek a liberal education, especially if you have yet to decide what you want to do with the rest of your life.
Joni
Find a college that suits your academic goals, and will help you succeed in your future.
Alexis
Narrow down your choices and then visit your top three or four school and make sure you talk to teachers, students, administrators, and financial aid people. Also, dont rule out private universities because they are expensive- they give out more financial aid and scholarships than state schools.
Christina
In finding the right place for yourself it is important to visit the college and feel comfortable with not only the surroundings and the classes, but also to notice things about the students already attending. When visiting my school I found most comfort when every student I passed during my tour said hi or exchanged a friendly smile. Spend more than a few hours at the college if you are interested. Dont just talk to the student taking you around, speak with those in the cafe or study hall if they seem available. The ones who are not part of the admitting process will tell you the most. Facts about the school are important but its also important to know about the social life. The way students behave away from class and away from the party scene is most important. Its also important to look at the city life around the college. For some, the busy and interesting community around the college is a good way to get away from the college scene. Its not all within the walls of the college that sparks the students eye.