The University of Montana Top Questions

Take you time, but in the end make the decision where you will feel more at home because after a while you want to be able to call your school home.

There's no such thing as the wrong decision in the choice of a school. It's all about what you make of it.

Look at all the options and take campus tours. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there because everyone is feeling the same way you are. Once you're in the scene it's easy to make friends.

If it feels right, go for it!

When looking for the right college look for a college that appeals to you both as an academic student and a young adult. When looking don't just pick a school based on its academics, find one that suits your personality as well. Finding a college thats suits your personality will help you make the most of your college years. Whether or not you join a soroity/fraternity introduce yourself to as many people as you can. The people you meet in college can become lasting friends or networks for later in life. Parents should give there children rules when they go off to college, however let your children experience life. Just remeber you don't have to be a party animal in college to have a good time. Do what makes you feel comfortable and make your experience what you want it to be.

Spend a little bit of time in the city or area that you are considering attending school in. You will most likely be spending a lot of time in and around the community, and it is important to feel comfortable and compatible with your surroundings. Find out what recreational activities there are around the area, because all of your time will not be spent in classes. Visit the school during the active semesters and sit in on a few classes, especially those pertaining to your interests or fields of study. Those professors will most likely be your future teachers. Attend a sporting event, and club meetings that pertain to your interests. If possible, stay in campus housing, to see if you like the living arrangements. It is very important to "try on" a school before you invest thousands of dollars and your future in it. I grew up close to my current university and had been there many times before I actually enrolled. I was, and am, comfortable with the vibe of the school and the communtiy, because it matched me. School is a big commitment, and I think that one should do everything possible NOT to commit blindly.

This should be fun! Going to college is a very exciting transition in your life. Yes, it can be stressful and scary at times, but it's still always exciting! This is the time to discover who you truly are and to build the person you will become, so embrace it! When college hunting, first listen to the word of mouth, what colleges have you heard good things about? Then use your school resources. Find schools that counselors and teachers recommend and check out the brochures your school has on them. If you like something, check out its webpage. Now, narrow your search down to your top five and try to visit, in person, as many of them as you can. Figure out what you're looking for in a school and which one fits you best. (Don't be afraid if its an instate college, they're usually cooler than you think they'll be!) When you find the right school: read all the flyers on the walls for things to do and be prepared to step a little outside your comfort zone- you have to with anything new. But it'll be worth it in the end!