Union College-Schenectady Top Questions

First, go and visit! Then, try the food, walk around the dorms, check out off campus housing, see if the climate works, check out the surrounding area to see what it's like, and most importantly, talk and meet faculty, students, and alumni. Ask yourself, "is this a place I see myself living for 4 years?" This is really important because it seems obvious, but honesly evaluate your school and surroundings and see if this truly is a place you can call HOME. When you can call your school home, then you've successfully picked the right school in my opinion. To make the most of your college experience, take advantage of the extracurriculars available as well as athletics, clubs, and greek life. There are so many opportunities on any campus, but getting involved is what will determine how much anyone enjoys their school. Just get involved!

Visit schools and keep an open mind.

The biggest difference between schools is their size. If you are looking at colleges, consider the size of school you want to attend. This will have the greatest effect on your college experience.

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Start your search early. If you know what your major will be, do your research. Select competitive schools as well as safety schools. Make sure you visit them all at least once to get a feel for the campus. You would be surprised at how much a campus tour can tell you. If you are someone who doesn't know what your major should be, I would recommend a liberal arts college or large university. Attending schools like these will give you the flexibility not available at more major specific schools. For all students, it is important to know the size and locaiton of the college you plan to attend. If you went to a small, rural high school, for example, you should understand a large university will be a major change and college already is a big culture shock. It will be the first time you live with peers and not parents. Most importantly, money matters. It is a sad fact that how much finacial aid a college gives you factors into whether or not you can attend. At college, set clear goals, utilize campus resources, and try to find a healthy balance between work and play.

Meet teachers, go on overnights, ask to meet people rather than solely your tour and interview. Tak advantage of offers to contact students thorugh facebook but really visit the school, attend a class go to a sporting event etc.

I would say you have to look at their academic interests and whether they have a programs that is interesting to the student.

Students making their college decision should always keep their options, as well as their minds, open. Don't judge a book by its cover. Be willing to learn a lot about the way a campus runs itself, and how students feel about where they're at. Parents should understand that it is their children that are going to college, and they are the ones who will be spending the next four years of their lives there, so it is there feelings that matter most. Joining a sports team is a good idea to easily find a niche, but it is not necessary. It is important to remember that incoming freshman are all in the same place. Everyone is nervous about making friends, and everyone feels awkward at first. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there ! You'll be glad you did. Meet a lot of people, explore the different social scenes, and find out what makes you the happiest. Enjoy yourself and do what makes YOU happy. You'll be glad you did.

It is most important to find the right campus size for you. Once you find several schools that are, size wise, in your comfort zone it is easier to make a decision and narrow down which one is right for you. It is important to remember that no college will be the 'perfect fit' for you, it is up to you to make your college experience what you want it to be. Becoming active on your campus and joining some clubs is the best way to meet new people and learn more about your school. At first it will certiantly be intimidating but just remember that if things really don't work out transferring is always an option. The first school you attend may not be the right one for you, don't be afraid to make a change in order to make your life better. It is impossible to know everything a school before you attend it so be prepared for some surprises!

Choose a school that feels right. You will be living there for the next four years. Of course, make sure the school you choose has the major you want. Go for it!