University of California-Davis Top Questions

Researching about the college environment for each college you are considering to apply to is a definite must. Depending on what you feel is important for your learning enviroment, as well as where you would feel comfortable living, is incredibly important. If you are unhappy with your living situation (if say your school is more of a "party school" while you are more of a quiet stay-at-home person, or vice versa) your grades will suffer. The most important thing is to be happy. If you're unhappy, why should you attend the particular college? Some students choose to pick the college that is most competative or academically recognized as being "the best", but if the lifestyle provided there does not fit with your personality it's not worth it. The main point: find one that interests you from your definition of "fun", not necessarily just from the academic viewpoint (yet of course, this should also be taken into consideration). Also, don't be afraid of taking risks and experimenting with new people or beliefs because thats part of the fun and learning experience! If you're unsure of whether to participate or not, always go with your gut.

Make sure your child understands that the college they will attend is where they will make their home for the next couple of years. The students should feel safe and comfortable in the environment, as well as surrounding themselves with people who are equally passionate about their field of study and social life in general.

go to the highest rated college you get into

Finding the right college is not as simple as reading a book or talking to a counselor. Even if a college seems perfect on paper, it may not be right for you. The only way to know for sure is to visit the school, walk around, and talk to the people there. Does the atmosphere feel friendly? Do people accept you for who you are? If you don't feel excited and welcomed, then the school may not be right for you, no matter how prestigious it seems. There are plenty of schools that offer great oportunities and career paths, but the most important thing is to feel that you truly fit into the environment created by the college and your peers. If you don't feel happy as you walk around on the campus, how can you possibly succeed there? After you do the research by going online and reading books, get out there and try to experience what it's like to really be a student at that college. If it feels right, then it probably is right; at least, that's how it worked for me!

Listen to your gut. You know what you want, try to tune out the pressure. A school is what you make of it

Have your high school graduate visit the campus without you. Have them visit friends they know for a weekend. Emersing yourself into a campus for a weekend is a great way to see how comfortable you are with the type of people that you will go to school with. Once you get in, get involved. Getting involved in something will make college much more rewarding.

Make sure to visit the campus during operational hours to get a feel of the campus life.

My advice to parents and students when searching for the right college is this: find the school that's perfect for you...then worry about the money. The four (or so) years that you spend at college will be some of the most interesting, terrifying, challenging, exciting, and fruitful years of your life. You'll make friends for life, establish contacts with experts in certain fields, and grow into your own individual identity. Do not rob yourself of the opportunity to experience these things simply because you feel you cannot afford to do so. Fight for what is best for you.

Finding the right college is definitely one of the most important decisions you'll ever make, but it should be something to look forward to. The location is important, would you rather stay close to home or go out of state? The choice depends on personal preference but living a little distance away from home may prove to be beneficial because stepping out of your bubble promotes growth and the broadening of horizons. Also, choose a school that has a major you're interested in along with classes that you'd like to take. It's okay if you're not sure what to major in just yet, you have plenty of time, so just take a variety of courses in different subjects and see what peaks your interest the most. Getting involved in clubs, organizations, sports, sororities/fraternities, internships etc. are beneficial academically as well as socially. Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity that should definitely be taken advantage of and is an experience that stays with you for a lifetime. College is what you make of it so learn all you can, take advantage of all the resources and opportunities available, have tons of fun, and good luck!

Help your child chose the school that's right for them.