University of Redlands Top Questions

To make the most out of the college experience, I would first suggest appyling to many schools to allow a variety of options. Although making the right choice may be difficult, a certain feeling will arise and you will know which school is best for you. If you feel you didn't choose the right school, you can always transfer. Once you pick your school, get involved on campus, whether it is a sport or a club. You will meet new people and likely develop friendships. Work with your professors so you stay on track academically. If you want to change as a person, college is the best time because it is likely that people will not know you. don't be afraid of change. For parents, allow your child to adjust to college life without the comforts of home. Support them in every way possible. Finally, college is the best time of anybody's life, so it enoy while you can.

Find out about their final aid plans, class sizes and campus racial diversity.

Make sure you know what you are looking for in a college in terms of class sizes and the types of classes and clubs offered. Consider the area in which the college is located and what the campus itself looks like. Visiting the campus is a great idea as well as meeting with an admissions counselor. As for making the most of your experience, really try to get involved on campus and join clubs and go to the events that the college puts on. Also, if its possible, try to get to know the staff and teachers in your department and create lasting relationships with them.

It is important to think realistically about what you need from a college, before passing the point of no return. Don't get in over your head; go to a school where you know you will do well, not just the school with the most well known professors. You should give more weight to the social life on campus than some of your peers might recommend when making a decision; it's important to enjoy the experience, in order to succeed. Make sure to go to a school where you can be yourself, rather than a school that forces you to be like everybody else. Most importantly, don't make a decision about a school based on something you're interested in your Senior year of high school, that you might hate by the end of your Freshman year of college. Rely on those traits the school possesses, that you're likely to benefit from your entire time there. Prepare for the best four years of your life, not the worst.

Take your time and apply to a variety of schools you're interested in.

Go visit your top choice schools. It makes such a difference to have visited the campus and the surrounding area before moving your life there. Whichever school feels most like home upon your first visit, whichever camous you feel naturally drawn to, that is the school at which you will feel the most productive, comfortable, and inspired.

Please make sure all your passions can be exercised at the college you choose. Even if you do not want to major in that field, it is very beneficial to your person as a whole to be able to take a class or two expanding your artistic abilities, discussing Roman philosophy, learning how to rock climb or working with children. Being happy at this point in your life is very important. It is surprising how much more enjoyable college is when you can do things for fun!! Also, explore the learning environment before you decide. Are big lecture halls for you or, like me, do you need to be able to raise your hand and ask plenty of questions, engage in good discussion, and connect personally with your professors? I can guarantee that if the learning environment is not conducive to your learning style, you will not be happy. As you can see, happiness is a motif of my advice. Finding a college that will give you the experience you need will make you happy even before you are a student there. Make connections, follow your heart, and make sure to enjoy this section of your drive thorugh life. :)

There isnt anything I could offer that hasnt been said before, so all I can say is to LISTEN to what other people tell you in regards to the question.

I would advise that the student find the college that is best for them. Sometimes parents get caught up in trying to help make the best decision for their children and their child ends up unhappy at the university they end up at. I would say that parents need to really take a step back and allow their children to decide if they want to go or not. Be a silent guiding force that helps not makes the decision. Also apply to schools that you know you will get into based on the requirements but also have your very minimal chance schools that you apply to just in case. You never know what an admissions board is looking for and it just might be your lucky day.

A smaller campus has a more intimate and cohesive community. When you are looking to select a college, choose one that is small. A smaller campus can also help you make look lasting relationships which help to motivate each other for completing schoolwork, as well as providing a good social life.