St Olaf College Top Questions

In choosing a college, ask yourself if you value a small but close-knit community of friends or a dynamic, broad group of friends. If you find yourself drawn toward a small, very close group, choose a larger college. However, if you value the experience of learning from many differnet people and establishing relationships with all kinds of people, think about going to a small school where you can know people in all aspects of their lives. In making the most of the college experience, I would say two things: don't be afraid to transfer if you feel like your school doesn't value the things you value about yourself, and never be afraid to try something new. If you want to study abroad, do it. If you want to be a camp counselor in a different state for a summer, do it. If you want to make different friends, join a new club. DON'T sit in your room be uninvolved. Your college or university will have opportunities that you will never find again - take advantage and learn as much as you can.

I would advise parent and students to consider every aspect of a school, particularly the social aspects. If you go to a school that has a great department for your major, but you are miserable because you don't like the social life at that school, you are not going to succeed. In the end though I think it's best to just go with your instincts. The school that feels right probably is. Don't stress out about it too much though, if you end up at a school you really don't like there is always the option to transfer.

Meet a few of the professors, look at the dorm facilities, and try the food in the cafeteria. It's hard to say whether or not a school you're visiting is the right one for you, unless you have specific areas of study in mind. If you're torn between schools, the best way to help you make your choice is to try the food and know that you'll be able to stay in this campus for a few years, if that's your desire. Try to get involved in something your freshman year, at least--it will help you make some good friends and get your hands into some neat experiences.

When choosing a college, take the time to get to know the lifestyle of the school. Just reading or finding out about the academic qualifications is not enough to set one up for a happy college or university experience. Once you've found your college, get involved in activities and extra-curriculars right away, but don't forget to leave time for yourself. Too many students pack their schedules from the time they get up in the morning to the moment they fall into bed at night. Pick a few choice activities and stick with them, but keep your schedule free to be spontaneous and spend time alone or with friends.

Don't concentrate on the cost, focus on the atmosphere of the college: can you see yourself there? Would you fit in? How do students relate to each other and to professors? Most of all, would you be happy and successful there? There's not one decision-making factor, every single experience you have there is important. Take your time choosing a college, so that when you finally get to go, you won't have any regrets and can make the most of your college experience!

Don't stress out about this decision because it's smaller tha you think. Colleges are more similar than different, and what's important is your strength of character to make it what you want, not what they think they have to offer.

Really research and don't be shy those first few months at college! Meet as many people as you can.

Find what really matters to you and seek that out in the schools that you do research on. Talk to actual students and ask them about their experience. Ask questions!