Jessica
You should visit the college and make sure that it feels right. If it doesn't, then don't go there. Parents, don't be afraid to listen to your children and let them branch out, even when it can seem scary or big, if they are unhappy- they will let you know. Students you need to be involved and not be afraid to get out there and find yourself. Don't be afraid to challenge your own beliefs and ideals, this is when you learn the most (I promise). Don't be afraid to go to clubs and events, you'll make tons of friends. Take advantage of everything that the college has to offer, this will be the easiest and cheapest that you'll get it. And lastely, do what feels right, don't be afraid to change your mind, it's never too late, and you'll have the rest of your life to work. Savor and enjoy everything that your college has to offer.
Brandon
Apply and tour as many different universities as you can. Look into studying abroad and what the college offers in terms of programs. Studying abroad will change your life positively and give you a wider perspective on life. Most students will know when they find a college that has the right feel to it. Research schools not online online, but by talking to actual students that have or currently go there. Enjoy your experience!
Steven
Take your time. Finding the right college is a massive decision that will shape who you are and who you will become. It is often at college that you learn who you are as a person and what you believe. Go visit some campuses! Get to know the area! If you end up going to a school without knowing anything about the area, you could end up stuck going to a college that you can not stand being at. Do some reasearch on the schools you are checking out. Find out what the students think about their school. Meet with an advisor and talk through your thoughts. They are good at it! They know the school backward and forward and they can help ease the culture shock of moing in to a place where parental guidance and control are nearly non-exsistant. Most importantly, have fun. People say these are the best years of your life. Don't do them alone. Meet people, hang out, study together; enjoy these years, because they fly by!
Lauren
I think you should just try to find the atmosphere that fits you best. Do not worry so much about academics because they will follow as long as you like where you are.
Sara
Definitely consider alternative options, and think strongly about what you want to major in. I was late in deciding my major, and I am already set back a year, so think about it a lot! Try not to stress out about working and money during school, but don't be wasteful of it either. Make friends and have fun, but learn a lot too!
Carina
Students: you'll know the right place when you get there. it will just feel right.
Parents: listen to your students, they are very smart and aware!
Melissa
I think it's important for the student to make the final decision on where to attend. College is a huge step towards adulthood and independence and you should explore as much as you can. When you feel completely comfortable and at ease on a campus you will know that it's the right one for you. It's also important not to fall into the freshman curse of putting school on the back burner and drinking to excess. You can never get back that first year and it could haunt your GPA for the rest of your college career.
Adam
Visit and tour the school before even applying. Do plenty of research on the university and talk to someone that has gone there recently
Karlie
It's important to find a college that makes you feel comfortable. If you like small class sizes, the University of Minnesota probably isn't for you. If you like a challenging environment with a huge social network, then this University is for you. Make sure that when you arrive for a visit on a campus that you can see yourself not only spending the best four years of your life there, but also that you could see yourself dedicating your life there. You should fall in the love with the city you attend school in. It is important for the happiness and success of your college career. Don't be afraid to speak your mind and make as many friends as possible. These friends will be with you for the rest of your life. Get involved. Work hard. Have fun (but not too much!). Find a home on campus that you can make your own. Lastly, find a major that really defines who you are and what you want to be. BE PASSIONATE! You only get once chance at this so make it the best that you can!
Melissa
I would tell the parents and mainly students that they need to make sure that there are enough options open for the student to grasp. For example, there should be many fields of majors he/she can choose from. I would personally tell the students to live in the dorms (if possible) for at least the first year, mainly because I didn't and I also didn't get the full experience of living on campus and making friends. Also, I would tell them to make sure that they find a college that isn't to small or too big for the student, but I also would tell them that once the student starts school, the school size will become smaller than it looks. I would also advise to take a tour of the school before he/she attends. I would also advise to talk to the campus police and find out about what they know about the campus. Make sure it is safe.