St Mary’s College of Maryland Top Questions

Colleges and universities everywhere promote the well-being of their students and generally want them to suceed at their school. So, my advice to all those students striving to find the right college is this: research colleges and universities with the student's interests and potential programs in mind and then go to those colleges and universities to really get a feel of college life. If you feel strongly for two or more, don't fret - apply to all of them! I did not get my first choice college and at the time, I was devastated. However, I am extremely happy at the college I chose in it's place. So, go out there, get a feel for the academics and the spirit of each college, and find the one that seems to call out to the student's individual academic and personal needs. Trust me, you'll get there one way or another!

It is important to visit the college and, if possible, spend a night there with a current student. This will allow you to get a feel for the atmosphere of the campus, both in class and out of class. Most of the life on a college campus occurs out of the classroom, so it is vital to see what the campus life is like and decide if it appeals to you. Also, knowing whether a small or large campus is preferable to you is important, as it can impact your ability to enjoy your college experience greatly.

Actually spending time at the school prior to committing in important. You need to get a feel for the vibe and atmosphere of the campus and the people that you would be spending years with. Sit in on a class, eat lunch in the dining hall. Find somewhere to sit and observe the campus interactions before deciding where you want to go. You need to feel at home at college. Blindly choosing without actually spending time on campus is ridiculous. At school, try new things and meet new people. It is incredible how different people's ideas can be. Take it all in. Try to do something new at least once a month if not more. Take advantage of the opportunities that the school has to offer.

Visit lots of schools and talk to lots of students. When you find a college that makes you feel at home, you'll know it. You just need to be clear on what makes you feel comfortable and what atmosphere will make you most able to do your work. Be brave and make new friends. And get involved. Try to avoid forming a clique. A lot of students feel the need to form a new family when they get to school. That can be nice because you always have people to hang out with, but it's also really limiting. The bigger the community you form, the better.

Know in advance if you are looking for TRULY public school priced education, or if you can afford private school so you can compare private schools. Have a good perspective about public schools and the quality of education even at big schools. Keep an open mind and make sure that the student is willing to try new things- bigger classes, smaller classes, teachers, TAs, etc. make sure that they are independent enough and ready to make the most of the college experience so they can grow as a person.

Go where you can aford.. there are good people everywhere! The people like your professors and friends are what make college so memorable and enjoyable. Also, don't be afraid to go off and do something new all by yourself... it'll be empowering and you'll learn a lot!

As far as picking the school that would best fit you, I would definitely recommend going to visit the schools you are thinking about multiple times. Also staying overnight with someone at the school would be very wise because many times, tours can not do the school justice or give you a true sense of how you would fit in there. School is going to be difficult to trasition to, but don't let that discourage you. In the beginning weeks you may feel upset or evend depressed with all the change and feeling lost without friends, but don't let that discourage you. Put yourself out there and try to meet new people. You never know who your new friends could be, and always remember everyone is in the same boat as you. Academically, just try to not fall behind with work because it will catch up to you, and it's better to be ahead or on time then to lag behind in your classes and become overwhelmed. Just trying your best is good enough and don't let classes overwhelm you to the point of exhaustion and overbearing stress. You're there to learn and have fun.

Go with your gut. You'll know when you find the perfect fit. Don't judge a school till you visit.

g

When you visit a school and get that "warm fuzzy feeling" you know it's the one for you. Also, look at the people, how they interact with you and eachother, the location, resources and academics at the school, extra-curriculars/clubs, and campus dining. You want to feel comfortable, have fun, be able to get where you want with your career, and be healthy and happy.