University of Colorado Boulder Top Questions

In my experience, most people I have met have changed majors at least once, and many times it is to a completely different field. (Engineering to journalism, medicine to education). So, instead of focusing on what school can meet the needs of your initial major plan, look for a school that meets your social and lifestyle needs. If outdoor activities are what you live for, don't go to a school that has a lot of rain and adverse weather. As long as you can enjoy yourself at school, you'll be able to succeed.

The advice I would give parents or students about finding the right college is take a tour of the campus and spend most of the day on that campus-so you get the feel for it. The advice I would give students about making the most of the college experience are get involved in sports, clubs, etc.

Know what you are looking for before you go looking, and once you get there enjoy it while it lasts

Keep an open mind when looking. Explore all your options.

My advice would be not to just look at top ranked school, look at what personally fits you. When you go to a school that actually fits your wants and needs, it is way easier to succeed, and you will get way more out of it.

Visit the campus and find some that you can relate to and find out what their experience was like and then find a school that you're so sure that you could like "if" and decide why you want to go there. If its for you then maybe you should, if its for the experience then again maybe you should. If its because that's what everyone else is planning on doing then take a step back and learn to think for yourself and find what you really want to do. There are far too many sheep masquerading as people in this world, learn how not to follow the flock.

College is all about experience, do not pick a college for just one reason particularly acedemics. When you are older what are you going to remember your classes you took or the experiences you had with the best friends of your life.? At least try to meet new people because you may find that they are very exciting and engaging. Also there are always going to be bad times so don't jump to conclusions. And always have fun!

The most important advice I could give when selecting the best college is to research every aspect of your choices. Campus visits were especially helpful to me because I knew almost the moment i set foot on a campus if I would fit there or not. Each college's website has endless resources that give you information about what the student life and academics are like. Even just looking at pictures and testimonies can give you some insight into the feel of the school and if it can be right for you. Many students go wrong by picking a college based on reputation or popularity and end up very out of place. A little research can go a long way in cutting these chances down and ultimately placing you in your new home!

Just do what feels right

Students- take advantage of as many opportunities as possible while you're in college; you won't get chances like these again! Take classes that interest you, follow your heart when choosing your major, and join in clubs or extracurriculars that you enjoy. Focus on your studies and do pay attention and make the most out of your classes- you're paying to get this education! Don't be afraid to engage in discussion and interact with your professors and advisors- they are here for you, want to help you succeed, and enjoy the interaction as well. Parents- encourage your children to select the college they feel is right for them. This is a new, exciting, and adventurous time in your child's life, but don't be too scared or worried! College is a time of experimentation and finding/building individual identity, and your child is going to do crazy things and make mistakes. Give them your support and love, and keep up communication and encouragement. Hold your child accountable to their actions, remind them of their responsibility, but don't overshadow them as they try to grow into adulthood.