Melanie
I would say find a school that is big enough or small enough for you. Do not overload yourself the first semester, ease yourself into it. This is nothing like high school and the responsibility can be overwhelming at first for some people. It is an amazing exerpierence and you learn a lot about your self so study hard and GO TO CLASS! If you go to class you will do good. Get all your deadlines squared away. Do not procrastinate!!!!
amanda
Visit the college before you apply there, set up appointments with professors and attend school functions just so you can get a feel of how the university is and be sure its the right choice for you.
Cristina
I think it is really important for parents to encourage their children about going to college, no matter what the expense. There are so many grants, scholarships, and general financial aid out there, that tuition does not have to be problem. I also think it is very important for students to choose a college that they think they will be most at home in, but it should also have enough cultural diversity to make the college experience complete. Someone can learn many things in the classroom, I assure you, but the things someone learns outside of lecture halls and auditoriums, from people of different walks of life, is immeasurable.
Melissa
Apply early and make sure to visit all campuses before making a choice. Be happy with your major and know that it may change. Make sure you are offered enough financial aid to cover your expenses if needed.
Paul
The two most important aspects to consider when choosing a college is what the college has to offer you academically and its location. First, if you know what your major is then it will be easy for a prospect student to research which college is accredited for excellence in your field. This will ensure that the college you choose will be in the best interest for you academically. Secondly, a student must like the location of the school, everything from the city to the social community where the school resides. This is very important because a students well-being must be in excellent condition in order for him/her to succeed. Knowing the location of the school will also give parents an overview of the cost of living for the area. Every parent and/or student should take these two steps so that the student can make the most of their future and college experience.
Chad
When applying to college, do NOT just apply to one school, no matter how certain of getting in you are. Fate has a habit of knocking on that level of confidence and/or arrogance. Apply to many different schools and think about what you want to do with your life BEFORE going in. It's natural to spend your freshman year unsure of what you want to do for the rest of your, but that time will also set you back if you're not careful. A little research about your schools and yourself will go a long, long way. That being said, if you're like me, you probably won't know for certain even by your sophmore or junior year. By serious about your future, but don't forget to relax and enjoy your time in college. Get out. Meet some people. Make some friends, because these are the friends you'll be closest to. On that note, don't throw away your morals and convictions to make friends. College life anywhere is riddled with the stereotypical "frat-boy" activities. If that's your thing, then awesome. If not, then look around. There are people like you around.
Kynell
visit the campus... make sure it feels right
Allie
I would tell a student not to look at the college they attend as a stepping stone. The student should find people they get along with, organizations to belong with, and enjoy it the best they can while getting a broader education.
taylor
Choose a college based on what you want to do in life. Don't pick somewhere because all your friends are going there, pick somewhere for yourself. Your degree is the reason you go to college, not to hang out with friends, there are new friends to be made anywhere you go. Pick somewhere that has the things YOU are interested in.