Sanjana
I would give the following advice:Apply to all the schools you think you would attend, or even maybe attend, because who knows what will actually be the right fit for you in a couple of months.Once you are accepted make sure you visit the schools that you would like to attend or are even 'iffy' about, because you never know till you get to the campus.When you go on the campus tours make sure you utilize every second and ask all the questions possible as the university is at your disposal. Once you finally decide and make all the necessary arrangements and get to school, have a VERY open mind. You will meet people and become friends with those you never thought you would. Keep your eyes and ears open for what?s going on around campus as there will always be something to your liking, and if not, MAKE IT HAPPEN, go talk the school, and get funding for what moves you. Basically just utilize your school, academically and sociably; you are paying for it, so make it worth it! College is probably the best four years of you life, so make it count!!
Michael
Check out all different types of schools so that you can make an imformed decision when it comes down to choosing the right college.
Lena
How do we root out the unworthy and grasp the future that we crave or crave for our children? Landing that dream college is no longer a sweat, as an experienced hand shall guide you through.
When selecting a school, the most crucial factor is career. What college offers the majors you or your child desires? How prestigous is that program and job-marketability within the school? Finally, is it attainable for you or your child? (Remember, not everyone is Harvard material!) If you had answered yes, then the school offers a promising start.
Next, take a look at personal preferences. Ready for chilly Alaska, sandy Oregon, or sweltering Florida? Want a populated campus or small, personalized classes? Finally, does it offer extracurriculars you wish to continue?
Now with the leftovers, consider runnerup factors of importance: campus location and quality. Students, do you prefer to journey miles from home or rebuild local connections? Parents, do you encourage their choice? Finally, can you financially afford college out-of-state? Next, if the school has a superior reputation, up-to-date facilities, and a respected faculty then, give it a thumbs up.
Soon enough, you have landed the college of your dreams.
Laura
In order to make the most out of the college experience, it is important to start preparing in advance. It's impeccable that you visit multiple schools and really focus on the question of "can I see myself here?" There are so many schools out there that it is important to have a few guidelines, to help narrow your decision down. These can be: distance from home, size of school, all female/male schools, types of majors offered, available extracurricular activities, types of available housing, surroundings off campus, etc. In the end it comes down to which school caught your eye the most. Overall it is not an easy process and can be stressful for both the student and the parents involved, however many people forget that if it ends up to be not what you thought it would, it's not the end of the world, transferring is always an option. So take your best guess at what school fits you the most and you'll be surprised by how enjoyable your college life will be.
Elise
College is what you make it. You can be as involved or uninvolved as you choose. Go somewhere that is the perfect fit for YOU, not your parents or friends. This will be your home for the next four years. You will have the best and worst times of your life here; your highest highs and your lowest lows. Just remember, the work never ends, but college does. Live these four years to the fullest, and find some place you can truly be yourself and you will be happy.
Jaclyn
I would encourage parents and prospective college students to visit a variety of schools in different settings, varying levels of competitiveness, and with a range of student ethnicity. It is best to keep an open mind regarding different schools. One never knows what environment one will enjoy until it is experienced first hand. For example, just because a school sounds large when considering the number of students that attend, doesn?t mean it will feel big while walking around the campus. Also, try to picture oneself attending the school while on a tour. Ask oneself questions like, ?Could I see myself walking to class here?? or ?Could I see myself hanging out with these people??
With the price of college rising every year, getting the most of one?s time there is very important. The amount of time spent studying will depend on the student, major, and school. However setting academic goals will lead students to success. College is also a great chance to enjoy a social life while getting to know diverse people and learning about unique beliefs and backgrounds. Finally, being involved in one?s school allows students to take advantage of many activities, services, and unique opportunities.
Alicia
I would tell a student who is trying to find the right college to go where you want to go. The best college is the campus in which you feel at home. No one should be allowed to make your decision for you. The college that you choose is going to be where you spend the next four years of your life; your parents, your friends, and anyone else trying to help you make a decision do not have to live on the campus that you decide. You want to pick a school where you can see yourself happy at. College is the first time you will be off truly on your own, so you want to pick a place where you will feel comfortable. Money sometimes can be an issues when deciding on a college, but it should not be allowed to dictate where you go. The college that is right for you will be the college that you will be the most sucessful at because it is where you want to be, not somewhere where others want you to be. In the end, choose the college where you want to go.
Jonathan
I would tell them to choose what is best for you. Don't worry about rankings or poll. Actually visit the schools and pick the school that really connects with you when you visit. I went to a couple decision days for schools I was accepted to and i knew Delaware was for me by the end of that decision day. I loved the environment, the people, the educational opportunities, and all the extracurricular opportunities. Just remember you're planning on spending the next four years at your college so worry about yourself when choosing a school and choose what fits you.
Jacqueline
The best advice that I can give is to make sure that you go to the place that makes you the happiest, regardless of cost or practicality. You only get one shot, don't ruin it like I did.
Danielle
Be sure to go to a college you like and makes you feel at home. Be sure to chose a college that has the major that you want and if you're undecided, gives you many choices to decide from. Do not attend a school that you don't really like because chances are you still won't like it when you're there. Once in college, be sure to be balanced in your activities. School is first priority but be sure to have some fun or else you'll drive yourself crazy. Be sure to get involved in school activities immediately because it really helps with making friends.