University of Arizona Top Questions

Just become as involved as you can. Leadership opportunities are everywhere.

The best choice that you can make when you are choosing a college is to choose one that fits your lifestyle. Visit all the colleges that you think you will like. Take into consideration the area, size, and weather of the schools you are looking at. There is nothing worse then going to a school where it snows and you hating snow. The best thing to do is visit, it allows you to see the school and meet some of the people at the school. Students are very likely to tell you exactly what they think of the school in a uncensored and real way, all you have to do is ask.

If I could give one piece of advice to future parents and students on the college search it would be to simple, just relax. The truth of the matter is, the most important part of college isn't where you go, it's what you do when you arrive. So much emphasis is placed on finding the perfect college, with the perfect location, which will allow you to select the perfect career after you graduate. The big secret is, Employers care less about where you went, and more about what you did when you were there. So stop stressing about the college application process. Go where you want, not where you're expected to go, or where you think you'll have the best chance of impressing future employers. Enjoy your last year of High School, and get ready to enjoy some of the best years of your life at college, wherever that may be.

Find a school that has good resources such as computer labs with good computers and internet access, good libraries, a good career center, etc. It is helpful to have as many resources as possible to make the college experience valuable such as lots of clubs, sports, good facilities, etc.

It is important that your schools have professors that are more willing to help you and are easily accessible therefore, the size of the classes play a very important role. Most of the time TAs are a great help but you usually get more out from the professor. If you are a science major, getting to know your professors will be great when it comes to letters of recommendation and research assistant positions.

When you start to look at a college, don't just look at the field of study you want. Finding a college is also about finding the experience that comes along with it. A school with good programs and few clubs and activities isn't going to give you nearly as much as a school with good programs and more extra curriculars. Size isn't always a bad thing, either. You may have larger classes that feel a little more impersonal, but that doesn't mean you can't still connect with your professors. Also, the programs at a big college outside of class are going to be plentiful and specialized. A large majority of students should in most cases find 3 or 4 clubs, activities, or groups that peak their interest. Above all to parents..... make sure your not making the college decision for your student. It's one of those things that they need the final word on.

My advice for parents and students is to choose a university that has a broad range of strong programs and departments. It can be difficult to choose a major and/or career path right out of high school, so choose a university that will allow you as a student to explore a lot of different options. College is the best time to immerse oneself in various fields and experiences. In terms of making the most out of your college experience, take courses in a variety of disciplines and start internships in fields that interest you as soon as possible. Internships are a great way to get some experience and figure out if you want to pursue a particular career. Also be sure to develop relationships with your professors and advisors. These people are excellent mentors and can be great future references for professional school applications or job opportunities. Also be sure to have some fun during college! Club and extra-curricular activities are a great way to take study breaks and will create lasting favorite memories of your college experience.

For a student or parent to find the right college, there are many things to be considered. College admission requirements and tuition are just the tip of the iceberg. The most important feature a college can offer its students is the surrounding community. The community should be safe, friendly and have plenty of ways for students to be active and take a break from the heavy course load. Academics and course availabilty are also important, but campus resources often go overlooked. Areas for private and group study should be plentiful, comfortable and easily accesible, as a student will spend enormous amounts of time studying. Parking should be convenient and affordable. The campus should have aesthetic qualities, as students are more likely to perserve if they are proud of their school and feel like their school is accomodating to their goals. Take a look at the big picture, but don't forget about the little details, because they will make a big difference in daily student life.

SAVE SAVE SAVE and keep an open-mind!

Do A LOT of research, meet people, take a tour, and ask lots of questions!