The University of West Florida Top Questions

First, make sure you and your child are mentally and maturally ready for the strugglings and temptations of college life. Then, choose a college that matches your educationally needs and wants and budget.

Research the colleges, visit them. Make sure that the college you choose has the program you want, but also other activities. Getting involved is the best way to enjoy college. Many businesses want to see the different experiences you have obtained, and by joining an organization, fraternity/sorority, sports team, or any other extra-curricular activities, you gain those experiences. Make sure that the college of your choice also agrees with your views on the enivornment, that they take steps to be green friendly. Make sure the college is involved with the surrounding communities, and that the alumni are still involved with the school. The one thing that made me decide to go to the college I attend, was that I felt I could make a difference; not only at the university, but in the community as well. Make sure the college provides counseling, and tutoring, as well as career and job services. All of these things are stuff I wish I knew to look for. I got lucky that my school was just right for me, and I hope every student gets that opportunity to find the school for them!!!

You must know the keys to your academic success to be able to cipher where you should go. If you like personal relationships and knowing your instructors then a small school is much better for you, but if you do not mind possibly getting lost in the people then a large school is a good option. The right college is only right when you know all the resources that campus has to offer you so do your research thoroughly on co-curricular programs to assist in your College career.

Do not just consider what financial aid is available at the school or the location of the school. Consider long and hard about what your options are career-wise and base your decision on how this school rates in those professions and the research credentials of the professors. Once you get to college, get out and join several organizations and participate in as many activities as possible. It is great to live on campus so that you have the ease of interacting with several different types of people. Further, go to all of the school functions. Meeting people opens doors to new opportunities and new friendships that can help you not only in college but also in life.

Before looking for a college to attend, think about what you want out of your college experience. Make a list of things that are important to you and then start looking at schools to see what fits, also be willing to revise your list as you see what college is really like. Once you start college, try to get involved in some social groups or clubs, they will help you make connections and friends. Keep in mind, however, that you are in college primarily to learn, so don't get involved in so many things that you don't have time to study for or go to class.

Both parents and students should visit prospective colleges together so that students can get a general feel for the campus, and parents can preview what college life may be like for their child. A college should be selected based upon a variety of factors, including location, availability of majors, academic standards, cost, and overall comfort. All of these factors should be explored before a decision is reached. Once a college has been selected, students need to be proactive in their approach to college life. Students should not be afraid to ask for assistance in matters such as choosing a major, enrolling in classes, on-campus housing, and both mental and physical health. Though the prospect of making new friends may be daunting, students should partcipate in dorm and campus activities in order to familiarize themselves with the school and fellow classmates. Students should explore the possibility of joining a club in order to become further involved. If a student is struggling academically, study groups or tutoring should be considered. Students should not be afraid to call home or ask their parents for help. Complete independence is a gradual process, which is greatly facilitated by the college experience.

I recommend looking at mulitple different colleges and making a decision after you have visited every college you showed interest in.

The most important factor in considering where to attend college is the comfort of the student. It is important for students to visit prospective colleges, to tour the campus, and to try to spend time speaking with as many students, factulty, staff and administration as possible. Being comfortable on campus and with the students, adminstration and faculty a student will be encountering is essential to the learning process. If a student is comfortable in his or her surroundings, then they are more likely to engage themselves in the classroom and seek help when needed. To make the most out of a college experience, a student should get involved. By getting involved early in the college career, a student has the opportunity to meet and get to know other students, as well as faculty sponsors. It also gives students an opportunity to get to know the campus and learn about the opportunities the college has to offer. Getting involved in student organizations is also a good way to be linked with alumni in the area who may be able to help a student find a job, either while taking classes or following graduation.

Find a school that you want to be at and get involved. It is fun to be involved and live the college lifestyle.

I suggest you decide what it is you want to do and go to the best school you can, that specializes in that area of study.