University of California-Santa Barbara Top Questions

Tour the schools and tour the community that the students live in. Talk to students about the classes, the environment, and what there is to do for fun. For parents, let your student wander around on their own for awhile, socializing and getting a feel of what it will be like to live there among their peers. Look into the extracurriculars, sports teams, and clubs that your student is interested in and meet with some of the members. Also, make sure it's what they want, not what you (the parents) want them to want.

An unavoidable effect of leaving home and attending college is that you yourself become irrevocably changed. I am not attending my first, or even second or third choice of university. However, the person I have become as a result of attending UCSB is the person that I have to move forward in life as, and in this regard I have no regrets. People attend school for all kinds of career, social, or a host of other reasons. For whatever reason you choose a school, just be open to your own development there and you'll maybe even grow up someday.

What I have found most helpful in deciding the right college has been to visit the campus alone and explore on my own. I visit the libraries, the dining areas, and even the surrounding neighborhoods to decide if it is a place that I can see myself being comfortable in. Online research is helpful in narrowing down choices, but nothing has helped more than actually being there and getting a "feel" for the campus. In order to make the most out of my college experience, I chose an academic major that I was interested in and made friends with others in that major. This made studying easier and more likely to get accomplished. Also, seek the help of the teaching assistants and teachers, they have always been eager to help. Once you find a college that fits it is like finding a new home away from home. The friends that you make become a part of your new family.

Go wherever you want to go, no matter the price. There will always be ways to help pay for it, whether it be aid or loans. THe college experience is amazing, and a huge part of life. It is where true lifelong friendships, and business contacts form. College is expensive, but worth every penny.

I would tell both the parents and the students that they need to pick a school which makes them feel comfortable. Also a school that has the major that they are planning on going into. It would be a great idea as well to look at the extracurricular activities to see if any, are suited for them. Being involved in extracurriculars makes you feel more involved and also you make new friends in areas where you have interest as well. It also looks great on resumes! Basically, become involved, it rewards the student with a great college experience and can give the parent some security in knowing that their child probably is not getting into as much trouble as they usually would be getting into if they were not with organized groups.

see all of the campuses before you choose. where you live really impacts your college career and what you're able to do with it. don't be afraid of trying out for a sport you've never done before. you'll meet some of your best friends and maybe find something you really enjoy. be prepared for the partying that happens. don't deny it, but don't let it rule your life either. and just try to have fun, that's what college is about

It is important to get out and make friends when you get to college. It will help the adjustment to college and you will get out of college. Be open minded when deciding where to go. We all have our first choices but there are also very nice colleges out there. Just because you do not get into your your first choice life is not over. Learn to make the best out ofyour college experience where ever you go. Be excited, learn, get out, and have fun. College is a great experience. get out and have fun. But dont forget about your studies. Put as much into your studies as you do your social life. Don't forget thats why your are there in the first place.

Advise to parents/students - Do your research! Deciding on a four year college is one of the first jumps into adulthood, so make sure that you feel as anxious as you do prepared to make the leap when the time comes. Research schools based on location, size, athletics, recreation, the city closest by, and anything else that seems unique of important to you. Once a list is in place, consolidate by grouping the schools and taking notes. Visiting schools certainly enhances the experience and makes for memorable travels as well as a cultured time for the whole family to enjoy! Everyone's priorities are as different as their current and ultimate goals, so become intuitive in your expectations. Be aware that nothing is perfect, but that's what makes each school so different. Remember that academics creates a skeletal schedule to college life. Keep sight of on campus organizations and the active town around. Learning the structure of social networks and finding places for sheer FUN, is a magical thing about the college bubble. Free the destination part, we're simply creating the journey.

I believe that the best way to determine the right school for your student would be to go and visit the campus. Wherever you go you need to make sure that you are in an environment which you enjoy and can be happy in despite the stress of school. Making sure you are happy is the best determinate to whether you will succeed at a certain school.

Students, you need to relax and ease into things. It is not a good idea to overload with more than 16 units the first quarter. Students should also take advantage of Spring Insight and get info on any clubs or groups that seem even slightly interesting. That is where I found the Pep Band that I love playing and hanging out with. You will see many people overdoing the parties at the beginning of the year. Do not be one of them! Also, for those of you who don't drink or party, it is very easy to avoid those who do and find other things to do. I would know as I don't drink and go to few parties. For you parents, work out a plan for calling and talking with your child beforehand. I know many of you will really be missing your kids, but do not hold them so close you push them away. Your child will be much happier and more willing to talk if they know when you will be calling. Oh, and one final important thing. Do not just show up at their dorm, let them know when you will be visiting.