Billy
Find some place you like, including looks on campus
Gennifer
When it comes to picking the right college it comes down to when you step on to campus you just feel it. Like a flash it happens, like a window into the future of the next four years of joys, tears and successes. What draws you to a school should be not which school you are going to be successful at but which school can help you be the most successful.
Talya
I would tell them find an activity to do to meet people. Don't be afraid to go knocking on people's doors in your dorm to meet new people. Relax and have fun! Don't get overwelmed with too many activities because you are at college to learn. Just relax and take things one at a time. All nighters are never worth doing! Start studying ahead of time!
Sarah
When choosing a college, don't just decided to go to the place that your friends are going, because more than likely your friends will change, and they may be leading down different paths than you are. Definitely visit the campus, and choose the atmosphere that is most like your own personalitly. Whether it is super school-spirited, or very laid back, the atmosphere of your college will make or break your experience. Personally, most of my friends went to a very school-spirited, closely knitted college, which was a lot of fun for me to visit. However, the college I chose was much more laid back and diverse, which fit my laid back personality. I believe you can learn more from diverse people and cultures, therefore my University was the perfect fit for me. Don't listen to anybody elses opinion on where you should go, because it is your life for the next four years, and you want to make that decision based soley on what you feel is best for you. And once you get to the University of your choice, be open-minded, meet new people, and you will have a wonderful experience!
Trevor
Always choose the University that meets all the things you want in a college. Make a list of qualities you look for in a college and the one that come close to your criteria then thats the school for you.
Tracy
I think the most important advice I would give anyone it to find a college that fits the students personality and educational goals.
Kelly
I advise both parents and students to look at factors other than just money when choosing a college. For instance, population size is important because an overcrowded college is not a suitable environment for anyone. In addition, mentoring opportunities should be a noticeable asset of the college of choice. With help, the student will be able to feel comfortable pursuing his or her degree and can prepare for real life.
Jody
Find a college that will be challenging as well as having a comfortable living environment. Social activities are important but it is also important that they involve more than opportunities to drink. A school with a good community can be really helpful to a young person leaving home for the first time.
Joey
Finding a college is not an easy task, but some advice that I would give is make sure that you fit into the college and the college offers opportunities for your career choice. In terms of enjoying your college experience, you have to get involved in some kind of club, group, intramural, or varsity sport. If you are not involved in atleast one thing then your college experience and opportunities will be limited. This is the best way to make friends and have a good social life.
Jamie
I think its really important to make sure you choose a college that has a really good program for your major. I also think that it is best to find a place filled with the sort of people you get along with, whether they are athletic types, or musicians, etc.
Jacqueline
My best advice for parents and students searching for a college is to do your research. I came to North Texas from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and I did extensive research for a school that matched what I wanted. I wanted small class sizes, a picturesque campus, and an excellent Education program, so I searched schools, emailed faculty and consulted with students who attended the University. Once you're enrolled, in order to make the most out of the experience, I would suggest working as few hours as possible, which may mean factoring the cost of attendance in your criteria. There is alot more to college than classes, such as extracurricular activities and on campus jobs. For me, the most valuable experience I've gotten from school was an assignment where I had to volunteer in a program mentoring at-risk youth. Even though the class is over, I spend two hours a week with my mentee. I have trouble sometimes balancing it in with school and my part time job, but I couldn't imagine telling her that we can't see each other anymore because I don't have time. Learn to manage time, and everything will fall into place.
Melissa
Students and Parents should always look for a college that is comfortable and worth the money that they will be investing into their futures. they should not fear heavy course loads, but seek the resources provided by the campuses to help individuals succeed. Students should work hard in order to play hard and not let the freedom that they obtain from being away from home detour them form their goals and responsibilities as adults. Parents should trust that they have raised their children to be responsible and accept and support the growing experiences that the students will face throughout their educational journey. When seeking a major the student should understand that it is completely their decision, and the faculty and resources on the campus are established to ensure that they reach their educational goals and needs. Campus life is provided to make students well rounded and give them the opportunities to network, have fun, and grow.
Lauren
The first two years of school are basically the same everywhere so I would reccommend going to a community college for the first two years to save you money.
Lisa
Finding the right college can seem a bit overwhelming if you're not sure what you want to study or where you want to go. First, think about a field that interests you. Is your interest business, biology, math, working outdoors or helping others? Get online and search, learn about the skills you will need. Yes, it's okay to want to work outdoors and study biology. Second, look for a school that has your field of study. Many universities have either a diverse or specific choice of curriculum. Third, don't forget financial aid! Search! Find! Write!! You can also find work on campus so you don't have to go off campus. That helps when you don't have a car. Also, think about the weather where the university is located. If you're not a cold weather person, choose a warmer locale for school. Winter up north can get COLD! Is the university you have chosen fit for you? Are you liberal, artistic, musical, political or just a real laid back type of person? Extra-curricular activity is also important, so don't overlook. When classwork is done, you need to have some way of having fun!!
Juliette
The advice I would give to parents and students is to do your research. College is a four year commitment that shouldn't be taken lightly. Make sure you plan out how you are going to pay for the four years of your college choice. I made the mistake of not planning the financial aspect of college and ended up transferring to a safety school. Get input from students who currently go there. They will tell you the reality of how the school system works.
Location is also very important. Students often pick schools based on how far they can get away from home. Being too far away from home is not always a good thing. Students should evaluate themselves and factors that mean the most to them. If you're a family person; then being 300 miles away is probably not a smart decision.
Your career choice is another factor to consider. Study what specialty you're school is known for. If you want to be a doctor, then attending a school that focuses on law is not smart. College is a major step and it shouldn't be taken lightly. Good luck on your college choice.
benjamin
pray about your decision
Joseph
Just go where YOU want to go. In the end you are the person that has to live with the decision. Go to all of your classes and get involved, and put studies first - the social scene will always be there.
Edward
What advice would I give parents and/ or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience? First, take it step by step. Think reality don't worry about what others are doing focus on self. Your environment, situation, and life are different from others no matter what is believed. Observe your surroundings and identify colleges and universities that are conviently located. The hassle of getting to and from school during inclement weather can weight heavily on academic achievements. Secondly, do your homework early. Get accustomed to using the computer by going to favorable college or university sites and investigating what they have to offer. Check out scholarships, grants, campus size, student population, etc. Lastly, get all needed documents ready and on hand. These documents will be needed time and time again during the enrollment process.
Angel
Defenitely start early!
Chelsea
The best advice I can give is to choose a school that has a lot of different college options - most everyone changes their undergrad major at least once. A variety of subjects to look into is good.