University of Denver Top Questions

Go not for the best academics, but the most comfortable setting. The student should realize that college is not only a academic journey, but a personal one as well. Consider all factors, and talk to people on campus. Ask them about the things they like and more importantly what they dislike. Take the decision seriously, and make sure you make the right choice.

Look at cost, financial aid, career services, and how the community is. But trust your kid. Let the grow.

Visit the school together, get involved when there, meet people, have fun

Make sure you focus on what is right for you as an individual rather than the sports programs, social life, etc. Anywhere you go will be an adjustment, but if you pick the right place it will make the adjustment much easier. Consider the environment surrounding the school and try to match this with your interests/hobbies. Definitely make sure you visit the school ahead of time and see if you can sit in on any classes to get a feel for the academic environment. Keep in mind that this is a chance for you to grow and expand your understanding of the world and yourself. Find a place where you feel like this can happen. While financial issues are important, the right school will be worth any necessary sacrifices. Choosing a college is a big decision, but remember that if you choose one that doesn't seem to be the right fit, you can always try again somewhere else. This might take some of the pressure off. Most of all, enjoy the process and get excited about this huge development in your life!

Research, time, and visiting the campus.

With all of the information availble, the best advise I could give is to really think about what is important to you and then go make your life around that.

1-make sure you got to the college and visit, because for me the schools that always looked good on paper were not always the ones, I liked the best or could even see myself going to; 2-really talk to students, it can be really awarkward and difficult, "uncool" but for me I wish I had taken the time to talk to students about thier experiences so that I would have had a better idea of the school I was going to; 3-leave your options open, apply to as many schools as possible, and have a criteria for all schools, lastly, always remember that no matter where you go, an education is what you make it, everything happens for a reason! I spent literally 5 mins on DU's campus and said heck no! But here I am and I have made the best of it, espeically because I am in an environment where I am suceededing and in one of the top programs for my major (INTS). There is never a perfect fit but always a school that will work and allow the student to succeed, grow and learn in and outside of the classroom.

Pick one that fits for the student. But if the student is financially dependent than, the parents/guardians have a say as well. You're looking for a school that will fulfill what the student is ultimately looking for.

Even if you don't know what you want to pursue, make sure the college has a variety of subjects to help you find what you enjoy and that it's the right school for you in terms of location, size, activites, and so on, as well as your financial situation.

I would say that, for me, finding the right college was all about the visit. When you visit campus, you're able to feel whether or not it's a place you could see yourself. It's also best to visit the college when school is in session to see if the people who attend the college are the right people for you. Once you've found the right college for you and begin your experience, don't be afraid to go outside your comfort zone and try new things and meet new people, by doing this you'll meet people you otherwise may not have and will meet more friends to start your college experience with and who will often remain your friends for life.