St Catherine University Top Questions

Nothing.

I have been to three colleges during my college career. the first college I choose was because of the name. it was the most popular school in my state but far from the best. I did not get the attention I need as a student with a learning disability but even as a student the teachers did not seem to care much. I left that school with fear that I would not find another good college. the college I go to now is one of the best. its a college that has wanted me to explore every option on campus and only wants us as students to successes. so when looking at colleges if you or your child ends up some where they do not feel is best for them, do not be afraid of exploring other schools. it may be the best decision of making a career, those life long friends, and finding that path to a successful life.

Find which college is best for your major and get details! Meet with more than one person at the school. Talk with academic advising and financial aid. Check out the people on campus, not just resources and how it looks. Even if you like how a school looks, you might not necessarily be happy with the overall atmosphere.

First of all, do not be afraid of investing in your future. It can be very intimidating to think about the expense of college but it is surprising how possible it is to work things out. Of course cost is important to consider but try not to make that as the principle factor in your choice. As far as the type of schools to look at, I highly recommend liberal arts colleges where you are required to take classes outside of your major. It really is beneficial to have a well-rounded education and it is surprising how interrelated a lot of seemingly different disciplines can be. It is also helpful to choose a college that offers a wide variety of majors and fields of study. It may be a little overwhelming when you are making your initial choices but the likelihood that you will change your mind is pretty big. It is helpful to already be in a school that can accommodate those changes versus one with a very focused curriculum. And finally, once you have chosen a school it is imperative to study consistently. Every night do at least one thing for each class. It really helps.

Know your comfort levels. Look at who you are as a person and choose a college that fits with your very being, not what offers the program that will pay the most money in the future. Life is too short to be focused solely on making money. Have fun at your college, and choose one that offers a large variety of course so you have the opportunity to learn everything you can.

Visit each campus. Try to do an overnight stay to get a feel for the campus life. Sit-in on classes, talk to admission counselors. Write down pros and cons for each school you are looking at attending.

First decide whether you like big colleges or universities vs. a small college. Look at campus life and campus facilities because you will be there often.

I would definitely say look at more than one school. I never stepped foot on St.Kates campus before the first day of school and although not touring colleges worked for me, I suggest everyone do it. Also, be prepared for how much it is actually going to cost, start saving, teach your children smart ways to spend their money. Advise them NOT to get a credit card! Live on campus and get involved in college activities. Take your school work very seriously and make friends with your teachers because they are the key to the world and into graduate school. If things get tough in school, dont give up just know that you will get through it and an A isnt always the best thing to strive for. Make friends with the people on campus, they really will be your life long friends. Do not shy away from people, the other students on your campus are vital to your surivival in college, they are there to study with you and help you with things you may not know about! Dont worry about going out and partying, there is plenty of time for that later in life. Good Luck!

I would strongly advise all those looking at colleges to actually go to them and see what they are like in person. The atmosphere is so important and it is hard to describe that in words. The feeling you get when on campus is a very good indicator of which college is the best for you. Don't be afraid to take chances. Try everything. There are so many new things to do and experience at college and this is your time to experience them. It is your time to get out of your comfort zone and find out what you like and what you want. Also don't be afraid to transfer colleges if where you're at isn't right for you. College is about learning and growing as a person. It's about finding what you're passionate about and immersing yourself in it. Don't worry so much about what career your major fits into, pick a major that interests you. In the end these years are about you and you should make the most of them.

Prospective students should reflect on how they learn best so that they can choose a school that fits. Colleges vary so much in terms of classroom size and availability of services. I would probably tell the traditional undergraduate student that their college experience is a great time to grow and better yourself for the real world - so taking every learning opportunity possible is highly recommended. In choosing the right college it might not be a bad idea to ask around the community what kind of graduates that school puts out. One reason I chose my school it that when I was in the area visiting I encountered several people at local businesses that said that I was choosing a wonderful school. Making the most of your college experience involves opening your heart and mind to knew experiences. This has helped me to find my place in the world and to see what I can do to make a valuable contribution to it. My advice for parents is to be as supportive as possible. Knowing that my family was proud of me and would be there for me when i needed them really helped me develop over the past few years.