Lucy
Look for a school that is right for you. This means making sure you are completely comfortable where you are going. Go somewhere that has ideas and goals that interest you, as well as people you could see yourself working and getting along with. Make sure you will be happy there and can have a balanced life, including school and fun. Don't pick a school just because you know other people that go there or because they have a great reputation, make sure you are comfortable and will be able to enjoy your time. College is meant to be a new beginning to a great chapter in your life, take advantage of that decision. Make the right one for you. It's about you, not anyone else, so make sure you're picking for yourself.
Sheri
It's all about finding a place that you feel comfortable, and where you feel like you can make something of yourself. This is both in terms of the classes as well as the students that attend this university.In the end, a student should look back on his or her college experience and feel confident that he or she became a better person. They should feel as though they branched out, tried new things and really found out what in life will make them happy. Because in the end, the college, no matter what size or where it's located, should help each and every student discover what makes them happy.
Yachun
Start looking early, and ask lots of questions. Most importantly, take the ADVICE OF UPPERCLASSMEN! They can give you the most honest, real insight on the ups and downs of college and certain schools in particular. At college, give your 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} because you will definitely regret it if you don't. While I still don't quite believe the "college is the best four years of your life" mentality, I feel like they are still amazing years. Don't drink or do drugs, not only because it's stupid but because you will honestly be hurting yourself no matter how much fun you think you're having at that time. If you want an escape, STUDY instead! It's not only good for you, it's empowering when you see that awesome grade on your tests. MAKE TIME for socializing, even if classes seem overwhelming. It'll make college that much more fun. Do lots of extracurriculars and volunteering too, they're extremely rewarding. Don't do anything you think you'll regret in the future, because chances are you WILL end up regretting it xP
Rhiannon
The most important way to determine the right college for you is to visit! Checking out the campus of universities that interest you gives you a feel for the academic and social environment. While you're visiting, try to talk to faculty members and current students and consider the following questions. What do professors expect from their students? What's the average workload? Do students at this school tend to be liberal or conservative, or is there a wide array of political beliefs? What kind of social activities and extracurricular opportunities exist at this university? Are professors accessible or hard to get a hold of? Could I see myself spending the next four years of my life here? These questions will allow you to gauge whether or not the college is a right fit for you. No matter which university you decide to attend, get involved! Joining organizations and attending university-sponsored events is the best way to get to know other students and to make a mark on your new school.
Maureen
Remember who you are, but don't be afraid to discover more about yourself. College is a stepping stone in life. Be sure it is one that carries you forward:)
Colin
As for choosing the right college, choose the one with the opportunities and student life that you feel you want most. You won't be in class all the time, so you want a place you'll be happy to live and play at, too. Think about your own social and learning styles, too. For example, if you like to be be anonymous, you might want wa bigger school, or, for the same reason, you might want to challenge yourself with something more intimate.
As for making the most of the experience, just try to remember that you've only got four years (or so). So don't be timid, and don't be afraid to get involved in activities. It's easier than you think to get to know your professors, too, and also more worthwhile than you think. Not only will you get a lot out of it personally, but they can help you out, too. Overall, in all realms, the most important thing is to take initiatave and, not being lazy or timid, seek out what it is you really want.
Laura
Don't stress about the classwork, have fun.
Carissa
I think it is important to talk to as many people as you can who actually go to the school and especially visit and stay over with someone to get a sense of what it is like academically and socially. I think it is also important to take into consideration how far you will be from home which a lot of people don't think about as much as they should.
Lily
Visit the college and meet some of the students on campus. Ask them about their experience and if you can relate, then it is a good fit for you.
Lauren
When finding the right college, make sure the student will enjoy being at the school. The best college does not have to be one of the top schools or one with lots of prestige. Take note on the community and environmet that best fits the student. Most importanly ,pick the school that will help you the most financial needs. The student may love the school but is it the right financial choice? College experinces could be awful when you don?t have the right plan for paying for collge and It can be stressful to students and parents. While out of state schools are great options as far as being diverse look, for schools in-state that will have just as much to offer in academics but more in financial assistance. Last but not least, get out and be more involved, take tuors and ask questions and explore all options.