Jennifer
I would definatly say take your time and look at as many schools as you like. Picking a college is not something that you should do over night. Look over the information schools send you and decide which ones you would like to visit in person. Then really think about your choices. Visit each college as many times as you need to in order to make the best decision. You should also find a school that is right for you, not someone else. Most importantly, talk to your parents and counselors. They are a great help and can make things much easier. Lastly, enjoy this time in your life. You only get to start college once. The process can be stressful, but once things are set in stone you have a lot to look forward to. The college experience can be life changing.
Courtney
Be sure to explore all of your options and apply to all schools that you are interested in. Don't let the application fees deter you; the small investment with those now could make a huge difference in your future. Decide what kind of student you are, and whether you prefer small or large classes and a faculty to make connections with or to simply teach you what you need to know. Make the most of your experience by getting involved in at least two campus or social organizations, but not spreading yourself too thin. Speak up and participate in class discussions and reach out to your professors. If they see that you are determined about a course, they will be more likely to help you. Get to know many other students and faculty/staff-- these are valuable resources now and in the future, for job recommendations, connections, and friendships. Be proud of what you choose, and choose it for the right reasons. College is a time for you to become who you're supposed to be. Let it be the most rewarding experience by exploring all options and deciding for yourself who you want to become.
Kathleen
When I was looking for school I found making a pro-con list a really good way to compare schools and evaluate my choices. Also, take some time to consider what it is you want in a school, and what you need in a school. Then think about the colleges you are conisidering in these terms. No matter where you go things are not going to be perfect and it will be an adjustment but taking these into consideration can decrease the amount of adjustment by a lot. The best way to make the most of college once on campus is to get involved in something. Whether that's a sport, sorority/fraternity, or other activity doesn't matter. Being involved gives you a community and a purpose other than academic. Plus, it's a good way to meet other people who may become your friends on campus. Building a network of peers and others on campus is important to making college a good experience.
Erika
Just like every person is unique so are the variety of colleges. I highly advise an overnight stay at the places that your son/daughter are considering attending. Admissions counselors tend to only present part of the university but attending students will usually tell everything. Next consider if you want a small school verses a large school. By knowing that I wanted to attend a school with small classes, I immediately was able to knock out several other choices. Another big factor would be the tuition costs. Smaller universities tend to cost more then others but they offer much more for the price being charged. But remember, each college has its pro's and con's. It is more important to find the school that fits you best. If you are not completely happy with your chose, then it will be highly difficult to be successful while attending. Contentment makes you want to do your best and branch out and experience everything that college has to offer. Good luck selecting your university and remember: Have fun!
Howard
Visit all of the schools you consider. Listen to the students and talk to as many as you can, not just those the Univeristy throws at you. Research, research, research. Be open to new ideas and don't worry too much about financial issues.
Once you choose, students, be open. Search for new experiences, don't just wait for them to come to you. Live. You only get to do it once. Talk to everyone you meet, get off campus and explore the city. Know your campus inside and out. Meet new people and try new things.
Parents, don't worry about your children too much. Call as necessary, but let them grow and support them, no matter what. Let them find themselves and accept them. Help when they need help, but recognize boundaries.
Most of all, have fun. It's the first day of the rest of your life.
Daniel
The best advice that I can give anyone applying to college, is to go on a college visit. Do an overnight stay. Generally, just get a feel for what life is like at that college. If, when you visit the college, you feel at home, chances are, you'll feel at home going to that college. If you're not comfortable with your surroundings socially and physically, there's no way that you can get an efficient education. As far as making the most of your college experience, get to know the people you go to school with. Whether that be by means of a greek or other organization, or just walking up and introducing yourself. It may seem clich?, but getting to know people is one of the best things about college. Here's where you make the friends you'll have for a lifetime.
Sara
The best advice I would have to give prospective students or their parents is to visit the campus, sit in on a class, or at best spend a night there. I feel like first-person experience with a campus is the most effective way to gain insight into the college and help you with your decision on your college choice.
The best way to make the most out of your college experience is be active: on campus, in the community, in the classroom, and with your peers. Be involved!
Anna
In my opinion, it is so important that a student has an overnight visit at each of the colleges in which he/she is interested in attending. The overnight stay can really provide an accurate picture of what social and academic life is like on that particular campus. In addition, once a college is chosen, a student must be involved in order to really enjoy their college experience. If one takes advantage of opportunities such as greek life, athletics, and student clubs/activities while maintaining a balance with their academics, a student will really maximize their college experience no matter which school they have chosen.
Chelsea
Go with your gut, you have to make the best of wherever you end up. The place is not as important as the people you meet and the programs you seek out.
Morgan
Really go and visit the school, walk around, sit in on a class, and make sure to talk to real students at the school, not just the students taking you on tours. Try and find someone who goes or went to the school and ask them for their honest opinion. Definitely check out the area that the school is in too, making sure it has plenty to do on weekends and when you just need to get away from campus. Pay attention to Greek life too, because they may down play it for prospective students.