Colleen
Make sure that the schools you are applying to have the major you are interested in, that they are accredited within the state for said major, and that if the school has satellie campuses that you will be able to complete the requirements for your major on the campus of your choosing.
Savannah
First, figure out who has the best program for what you want to do. Next decide on the type of environment you want to be in, exmple large or small school, diverse, predominantly white or black, things of that nature. After that the student must then figure out if they want to stay in-state or go away, keep in mind in state is a lot cheaper than out of state. Do a lot of reasearch on schools that you think you might be interested in; find out about credentials, school rules, campus life, environment, housing, meal plans. Some schools dont offer housing after freshman year and at some school s you are not allowed to have cars your freshman year. So taking this into consideration you must find a school that meets and fits your needs. The last piece of advise I can give for finding a college that is right for you is NEVER follow your friends. What's good for your friends is not necessarily good for you.
Jacqueline
Make sure you visit each school and have a list of thing you want out of college life when you visit so you know if the college is right for you.
Patricia
Visit, visit, visit! A college that looks good on paper is not necessarily for you. Also, take advantage of everything the school has to offer. Chances are there's soooo much!
Francis
I recomend state schools and staying closer to home. From my experience more of my peers who went away for college ran into problems, compared with people who stayed close to home or commuted.
Jasmin
My advice to parents would be to allow their children to have a voice in the selection process. It is their ultimate decision and they need to be comfortable in the choice. Once in college, allow your child(ren) to make their own choices and make their own mistakes and do not judge them. Be there to support them and offer your guidance, but do not try and make decisions for them.
My advice for students would be to be aggressive when applying for colleges. Do it early and apply to as many schools as you want. Choose the college that makes you feel the most comfortable and is a place where you feel you can grow and succeed. Base your decision on your own instincts and feelings and not on others opinions. Once in college dont limit yourself. Adventure out into the world with no prejudgements and experience every aspect of college for yourself. Finally enjoy these next 2 to 4 years, but also remember you're there for an education so dont forget to STUDY!
P.S~ Don't forget to call your parents sometimes and keep in touch with your family and friends while you're away.
Emily
The best advice I could give parents and prospective college students is to never settle. Do not just apply to one school, visit as many as possible, and talk to current students. The moment you walk on to the campus that is right for you, you will know it in your heart. It might be the location, academics, activities, or even something as silly as the cafeteria, but something will click, and once it does, don't settle for anything less than that school. Even if it means working hard at a community school or satellite school before being admitted to the school of your dreams. Once there, be outgoing, its a new beginning, you can be anyone you want to be. Join a club, intermural sport, sorority/fraternity, or band, try something new and stick to it. Enjoy the time you have gaining knowledge and making life long friends, before you know it, you will be just another adult in the "real world".
Shanelle
Making the right college decision should be soley on the quality of education and cost. There are other things such as campus safety, distance from home and class sizes that are probable to play an important role also, but it definatly should not be the deciding factor. Students and parents looking for the right college should make sure that they are mentally prepared to remain focused on work because in the end you want to graduate with an education and not just a degree. That is not to say stay confined to your room at every given second of the day, but your priorities need to be set be set on schoolwork first and play later. Finally, another very important factor when making your decision on where to go is making the choice for you, and not for your family, friends or significant other.
Nalo
I would advise parents and/or students to do some research on the surrounding area of the university. It was a plus for me to be able to have fun outside of the university. An area that is culturally unique and diverse will change your life immensely. And as far as making the most of the college experience my answer is simple, get involved! You will discover yourself if you are apart of organizations and movements that you believe in.