Tania
I have a noticeable spinal deformity called scoliosis; it was first noticed when I was one year old. I had my first surgery when I was six years old and others at ages seven, eight, thirteen and fifteen. When I was younger, having scoliosis didn?t bother me much; as I got older, I became more self-conscious.
If I could go back and say one thing to myself in high school, I would say not to be self-conscious about my appearance. College is such a new experience and there are many people who would accept me as I am. I have made many new friends and two new close friends. I am enjoying college very much.
Benjamin
First, I would visit as many campuses as the student desires. You can't get a good feel of a particular college setting if you are not there to experience it personally. If the school appeals to the student academically and socially, the student should visit that campus and tour as much of it as possible. Of course, other things need to be considered before choosing, such as the cost and location. Once the college has been chosen, you must get involved. Academics come first, and school work should always be the top priority. But, there is a good amount of free time outside of the classroom which should be utilized by getting involved, meeting new people, and learning new things. The people you become friends with at college are often your closest friends for the remainder of your life. Parents, help your students research and find as much financial aid as possible. College costs are tremendous and add up very quickly, but there are many places that offer applications for scholarships and grants, particularly online.
Vanessa
Choose a college that you feel has everything you are looking for. If a college is number one in your major or field, go for it! Do not hesitate to ask administration and faculty prior to attending a school about the dynamics of the college of university. To make the most out of your college experience, you need to go to class, because you are paying for every single one. You also need to have a nice balance of academic life and social life, however do not let your social life dictate how you do in college. Overall, you need to choose a college that bets fits you academically, socially, and that takes education as seriously as you do.
Veronica
I encourage you to tour as many schools as you can, it is better to choose when there is a variety to choose from. It is also a good idea for you to have some knowledge of what type of career path you would to pursue in order to find a school that fits your needs. I advise you to learn about the different social groups, clubs, and volunteer opportunities your campus has to offer, these activities will allow you to build a strong resume and create friendships. It is most important to stay atop of your studies and keep up with homework (even if it?s just ?Suggested Problems?). At times it can be tough, but you must figure out a way to properly manage your time.
After living my first year of college across the street from the main campus, I strongly advocate you to live close to your school. The chance to live near my university granted me countless opportunities- such as volunteering, meeting with group partners, and socializing with new friends. My first year of college was the greatest time of my life and I hope your freshman year will also be exciting. GOOD LUCK!
Holly
When picking the right college, make sure you make a list of exactly what your IDEAL college have. After that, make sure you consider location and cost. Out of state tuition is a lot more money, so that's very important! It's also important to remember what you want your major to be, because not all colleges have the same programs, and some colleges' programs are a lot better than others. Other things to take into consideration are the disability services and what life is like for the locals, because you will, essentially, become one. Make sure to visit all of the campuses during school hours, and talk to the students that you see. Campuses feel different during different times of the day and week, so you want to get a good feel for that. And don't be afraid to visit the campus multiple times to get the perfect fit. Don't rule out community and technical colleges, and make sure you have as much fun in the process as possible! Picking colleges is a lot of fun, so go into it with an open mind.
Raquel
As a sophmore of The University of Cincinnati, I am extremely pleased with my college decision. I advise every person I encounter to apply for as many scholarships as possible. I try to educate students on the process of choosing the right school such as; college visits, shadowing students of alike major interests, becoming involved in sports (such as rowing), joining spirit clubs for the athletic departments; for all these allow first time college students to make friends much easier. For parents, I know it was difficult for my mom to watch me, her youngest, go to college; but what made things easier on me was the freedom she allowed me to grow with. I still had a curfew and let her know where I was, but the way I was able to stay later at the library to work on projects and attend the football games made my college experience all the better! College is a scary place in the transition from High-School, but as long as students get involved and research information about the school to see if it is the right match for them, they will not have any regrets. That's my experience at least.
kenyatta
When choosing the best college for a family member or yourself dont look for just the fun of the college. think about whether or not this college will place you in the best path of your career, while at the same time offering you a well lit and friendly environment. consider the professor ratings and the class sizes as well. look to see whether the school has diversity and other statistical information about the school. never go by a bochure or a commercial. do further research on the school to make sure this is the place that will offer the best educational journey for you. although school is about learning, it is also about the money so you want to make sure not only that you pick a school that you can afford and that offers financial assistance but a school that is worth investing thousands of dollars in to. over all a university can sound amazing from the outside world but in order to get first hand experience take college tours and always apply at different universities just in case one turns you down. get involved in the campus life and make friends.
James
Do not pick the the university with the best party scene or athletics. Yes, the social part of college is important for networking, however, financial and academic issues are the cause of most concern. When picking and finally attending the right school, think of it as a fresh start. Do not hesitate to network and meet new people. Working with a group is more beneficial than to trying to take on course work by yourself.
Jessica
Make sure you visit the college at different times in the year to get a cohesive idea of the campus lifestyle. also get involved in activities that welcome non-campus community members to see how the campus interacts with it's community. Most of allASK QUESTIONS!!!!
Michael
The first thing I did when looking for a college was to pick schools that offer a wide range of academic programs. This gives you a lot of options if you are undecided or decide to change majors. Second, I decided on campus location- either rural, city, or somewhere in between. This is important not only in finding entertainment and things to do, but also gives opportunities for jobs/internships that may be available to students while in school and after graduation.
Once enrolled in school, build as many relationships as you can- with teachers, students, and other faculty. Networking is the most important thing while at school. It makes your overall experience easier. You can get teacher reccommendations, an on-campus job, find out what course/professor to take, or simply borrow a classmates notes before a test. Networking is crucial.
At times you may feel overwhelmed. Make sure there is a balance between work and play. Go to the rec center, hang out with friends, or attend an campus event. But also, find what there is to do off campus. Restaurants, shoppings, movies, professional sports. Just get out.