Ben
Research as much as possible. Factor in how helpful the financial aid and counselling offices are. Contact current students and alumni to see how life at the school is and how easy it is to get a job after graduating. Find out if the school is accredited or not. Once in the right college, focus on school as much as possible, but set aside time every week to interact with people and do nothing school related during that time period. Eat properly, and work out regularly, because stress does build up! Bring ibuprofen and vitamin C, and prepare to get used to getting sick once one person falls ill.
Erik
I would recommend students and parents research nine schools that interest them based on degrees offered, school size, school reputation, family tradition, quality of education, and extra curricular activities. Then visit the three best and spend at least one night in the dorms, go for two if you can. Visit classes and discover the atmosphere and nature of the school. Also eat in the cafeteria and attend extra-curricular activities and sports events. Scout out the campus facilities and meet several teachers in fields you anticipate studying. Finally study all the students that you meet and ask yourself this question. Do I want to be like he or she when you graduate? Like a lump of clay you will be molded and shaped through your experiences in college. Therefore pick wisely. Your friends in college will sculpt your life and you will be friends with many of them throughout life. Parents, give your students the choice in the decision. However come along side them and help them decide. Be an helpful advisor, but leave the choice up to them. Also, working through college is tough but a great learning experience as one has to learn to balance all their responsibilities.
Joshua
My advice to a student or parent on finding the right college would be to make sure you know what the campus life is like. Go visit the campus and "live" there for a weekend. Experience what it's like in the classrooms and what it's like to interact with the other students on campus. Find out the strengths and weaknesses of the department in which you are going to study. Make sure the surrounding area will meet your needs and desires. College is a big part in a person's life, espeically in this day in age. It's important to be able to find a balance between your social life, your studies, and of course your dreaded job. Find a college that will benifit you and will give you as many experiences as you can handle. Find a college with the perfect balance that suits you and all of your needs.