University of Redlands Top Questions

I would tell them to explore a school's options for prospective students visiting the campus, such as overnight stays and sitting in on classes, so they can see if they like the school more. I would also tell them to find schools with class sizes that are smaller, which usually means a private shcool, but it really is beneficial and although I have never had a class size larger than 30 students at my university, everything I have heard about large class sizes is negative. Another thing to pay attention to is the number of majors offered. If you don't know what you want to do for sure, pick a school that has a variety you might be able to choose from as opposed to a school with only three majors (yes it's out there) so that you won't be stuck down the road. Also, don't count out universities where the major you are interested in is small because that does NOT mean it is not as good.

Visit the college. If you can, stay over night. Just because it's a prestigious school, doesn't mean it's the best for you. Sometimes smaller is better. Get out and get involved. The more involved you are, the more friends you'll make. Make your own decisions; you don't necessarily have to listen to everything your new-found friends say. Most importantly, be yourself!

There is a lot to consider when a family goes college shopping. It is strongly encouraged for for families to visit schools before committing. There is a huge difference between a small residential college and a big research university. It is very important to weigh in all options when deciding upon a college: tuition, financial aid, distance from home, average temperatures, on and off campus activities, athletics, etc... College is a chapter that really represents four amazing years so choosing the perfect school is crucial for personal enjoyment and happiness.

look at the kind of environment you want to be in. if you don't like where you live or what your class set-up is like, you wont have a good college experience!

As a tour guide and admissions worker for my school, I meet a lot of parents and students who are all trying to find the college which fits them best. It can really be a daunting task, one made harder by the constant pandering from all the different schools--it's hard to know whether you're getting a straight answer or not. My advice to students is to not worry so much about finding a school with a particular major--you want to find a place that will let you explore many different avenues of study without putting you behind on graduation. I say this because so many students change their major anyway, but at larger schools with highly specialized programs its much harder to switch; you're so busy jumping through their hoops that you don't have enough time to explore your own interests. College is about finding something which will hold your interest for the rest of your life, something to be passionate about. You want to find a school which is about helping students find their passions, not just pushing you through the program successfully.

Don't pick a school that is know for its partying because it should not cost that much money to party. But you should be getting a good education for the money you are spending. Also, go with a school with a good reputation and that is not know for just giving degrees away.

I believe that going to college will be the most valuable experience of your life. Truthfully, it does not matter which college you select; rather, it is all about how you experience the college, how you utilize what it has to offer, and what you take away from it. Frankly, I would advise going to a college that has direct job placement if you are eager to get a job right away after you graduate. If you want to go to graduate school or do not know what to do after graduation, go wherever you will enjoy yourself and be able to grow as a person and a successful student. That is the best, most heart-felt advice I can give after my four years in college, and would hope that this wisdom I impart upon you will give you direction for your selection. Good luck!

When you get to the campus, stand on the quad or central place on campus and close your eyes. If you can imagine yourself being there, feel comfortable and don't think/care/ or are worried about people staring at you - then you are in a great place. Go somewhere will you will not be judged but embraced for what you have to offer and bring. Make sure they have the major or interests that you want to pursue and see where it has taken other students in the past. Go to a sports game and see how friendly the students are, how spirited the atmosphere is, and how involved the surrounding community is. One of the best ways to test the compatability of a school for you is when everyone comes together in support of what they love, their school.

Make sure that what you're paying for college is worth it. If you're paying a lot for college, the student should take advantage of the school's resources, and should really work hard to keep their grades up and be involved on campus. And it's not necessarily important to be involved in a lot of activities, but just to be dedicated to one or two that you are really passionate about. If you don't know yet where your passion lies, I would recommend starting off in community college (especially is money is an issue). This lets you explore your options and find what you're really interested in studying, without shelling out big bucks right from the begining. Once you're confident about your major, it's a lot easier to stay focused on your studies and get your money's worth out of your college experience. Also, if you're passionate about your studies, it makes it that much easier to balance your academic life with your social one without getting too distracted.

try not to focus too much on solely academics or social atmosphere. try and take a holistic approach to finding your school - it is important that you nurture your mind, body, and soul in college, otherwise there is a risk of making yourself miserable! if you are looking for an intense mental challenge, that should certainly be your focus...but do not discount the importance of town and university community! if you are living there for the next 4 years you want to know as much about it as you can before making a decision.