The University of Montana Top Questions

Applying to colleges can be overwhelming. There are so many choices and it is easy to believe if you choose wrong you will ruin your life. I held this attitude for a while and then realized because of finances I needed to choose a school that was not my first choice or the most prestigious. So I decided to attend the University of Montana for at least a year and then transfer if I hated it. Luckily I choose one of the most relaxed and beautiful campuses I could have found. After attending college I believe the most important qualities to look for in schools are finding a university of a size you will be comfortable at, choosing a town you like, and closely examining finances to make a wise choice for you and your family. It is easy to feel you need to attend the most expensive and selective school, but as long as you hold a positive attitude and engaged in your learning you can create a wonderful education at any institution. Once you are at school get to know your professors and get involved in activities that will enhance your four years of college.

As a parent myself, I would tell parents to expect the most out of thier students, and be sure to provide adequate incentive for that performance. Incentives based on acedemic performance and or community service would be appropriate, in my view. However a parent must also be understanding when a student changes a major, as it is common for many students to change several times as they discover the real direction they wish to go. If you demand acedemic performance, provide incentives and rewards for performance and understanding support you and your student will have a positive college experience.

When selecting a college make sure to do a visit during a busy time of the year-like football season-it'll give you an idea of the school spirit and atmosphere. Try and do an overnight stay in a dorm if it's available. When you get to college, check out all student groups that sound appealing, and get involved! Even if you don't join a house, go through recruitment - you'll meet some great people! Most important, take classes that interest you and get involved! College is what you make it!

I suggest finding a college the fits your educational needs. It is important to feel comfortable in your surroundings and to feel secure in the area you are living. I understand how a parent feels when their child leaves home. Montana is a state that anyone can feel safe while attending college. The students and staff that I have met are genuinely friendly and helpful. People choose to attend college here because of the natural beauty of state, the outdoor activity and the quality of education. To make the most of your college experience try to find out as much as you can about the campus resources available. This can be very beneficial in providing everything from financial assistance to extra learning tools. It is important to plan ahead for housings, meals and commuting. The more organized you can be, the less stress you will have. I am still learning this! Everyone needs to have some fun. Find out about the local activities through the college you are attending. Look through your school newspaper to know what's happening on campus and participate in a club.

Find someplace where you feel comfortable. There are quality professors at most colleges, and you can get a very good education at many universities that you have never heard of.

Visit the school first, that is very important!

The best way to decide on the right college is to talk to everyone you can about it. You must first find who you are, what you like to do, and what it will take to get there. To start searching, having a general idea of what you want to major in can narrow down your choices. Assess who your friends are and why they are your friends. It will help you figure out the kind of people you enjoy hanging out with: So if they are all engineers it probably would be a little rough to attend a small liberal arts college. Obviously you should choose your college based on what your friends are doing, but what their personalities are. Finally, there is that money issue. If you are looking at getting through on loans, a place that will cost 60,000 a year is probably out of the question. So be reasonable in what you can work off and what you have available. And, if you get turned down from your dream college, keep your head up, put in some hard work and transfer later.

Advice I would give to parents and/or students in search for the right college would involve closely reviewing academic programs and their requirements. Make sure the course of study fits your preference. Also, I would highly suggest the student to try and have a certain degree desire in order to eliminate "waste" of time and money that may or can be used for other expenses.

Visit the schools you are interested in. The school may look perfect for you on paper, but if it doesn't feel right--it's out. Don't think about cost--there is financial help available if you look hard enough. If you're not sure about your major, think about other aspects of the school besides programs. You will find your school. Making the most of your experience? Well, get involved in something you love. Or something you're completely new to. LIVE ON CAMPUS, at least the first year. You will make friends immediately and probably never forget them.

When making your choice for which college you attend in the end it does not matter where you go rather what you make of your experience.