University of Rochester Top Questions

Think about how much debt you'll be in vs. how much your career will pay you.

I would definitely advise parents not to pressure their children to tour more than three schools in their college search- I think that looking at ten schools myself, I am able to say that it was really far too many... and quite overwhelming, to say the least! I was told that the college a student gets into can and will eventually become the school that they always really wanted in the end, and I find that to be a beautiful truth that I myself encountered in coming to the University of Rochester. I think also that parents should really encourage their child to explore where their curiosities take them, and not place so much emphasis on being practical in what one studies. People my age are pressured to grow up far too fast for my tastes, and are often steered away from taking courses that challenge the way they've always been taught to think about themselves and the world in which they live. Learning how to think critically about our world is paramount in our college education, and I think that there will always be enough time to find a career in years down the road.

Make sure they really do good in school. Personally the first year is going to look like you don't really need to do as much work because you got into the school. No, stay 110{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} focused. One key in my college life is money, try to save money now and keep in good contact with your money offices on campus and do try to build and wonderful bond with counselors, they do have miracles up there sleves. Oh yes, GOOD LUCK!

The "college experience" is an extremely subjective term that I rarely use anymore. Back when I was in high school, to me the "college experience" included going to football games, huge lectures, frat parties, and just a lot of drinking . Before I graduated from high school, I decided exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I want to be a professional opera singer. Now, I attend one of the top music schools in the world and am at the top of my class. I work very hard and learn a great deal of new information every day. So, my idea of the "college experience" changed drastically. I've never actually done any of the things I used the think this experience included. When you are looking at colleges, you first have to decide what you want to get out of it. Because, you make the experience. It is whatever you decide you want it to be. If you have your list of goals and you find a college that meets a lot of or all of them, you've found the perfect fit. It is quite different for everyone. There is no cookie-cutter answer to this.

The best advice that I could would be for the student to really follow their gut feeling when comming to a school. I chose the school I am attending because it was the best school that I applied too, however my gut told me I would be happier at another school. Now a year has gone by and for that entire first year I was miserable. The food was terrible, the classes were incredibly hard, and I did not like any of the people I met. I considered transferring many times throughout the year, but figured it would be easier to just stick to my school and get through it. I always wonder if I would be happier at the school I almost chose. I would also advise to take the first year and explore different majors. Don't just jump into a major expecting to like it. It may not be for you. I made that mistake and ended up hating all of my classes. I have since found a new major and enjoy it, but my first try was not right for me. Just go with your gut and you'll be fine.

Do your homework, find out what colleges fit what you expect college to be and are strong in fields you want to major in. After that go visit them.

Location, quality, and tuition are all very important, but when making your decision, go for the college that has the best facilities to enrich your career goals. For example, if you are interested in research, find a school that has access to good on and off campus labs and is known for undegrad research. Also, despite pricey tuition bills, if its the right school for you, go for it. There are options such as financial aid, and grants but if those don't work out don't quit on the school. Take out loans and defer till after graduation because it pays to invest in your education.

I would want the students to personally know what they want without opinions from their parents (which may override what they want to do, even though that didn't happen to me). I would hope that students and parents would be open and on the same page for what type of school to look for. Don't be concerned about getting in- go for it! Try it! Be concerned about truly representing who you are on the application they give you. They are giving you their focus, their time, and a wonderful opportunity. Remember- they aren't there you see you fail; they want to help you succeed!

I looked at over 30 colleges when applying; all of different rank, location and concentrations. Though not my first choice Rochester has been a perfect fit. It offered what classes I wanted to take. There is a good balance between class work, outside work, and social life. I remember the first time i walked onto campus it just felt right-might be corny to say-but you have to able to envision yourself there. Do an overnight trip and really get to know some of the other students, staff and faculty because they are the factors that make the difference, not the weather.

I would advice students and parents to do alot of research about the college. I think it's important to go visit the campus and get a field of campus life. Furthermore, I think it would be a good idea to learn about the different academic departments and its professors. When you first begin to choose classes take a diverse amount of courses to see discover what truly interests you. When on campus become active in different organizations you may like and feel you can make a difference in.

Make sure you know what kind of school you want. Students, try to take any advice your parents give you because they want the best for you. Parents, respect their decision because they are not kids anymore, also, let them make their own mistakes. Just give them your support and give them some space, if they really want to go to school is because they know better.