shawn
Look around an go to as many campuses as you can. Don't settle for the first college you think of. The best thing to do is visit on a weekday so you can see campus when its in motion.
Tela
My advice is to go where YOU want to go, not where all your friends are going or what is closest to home. Pick the university you feel most comfortable with and check financial aid options because that is important. I recommend getting involved, like joining the Greek family. Have fun but work hard because afterall, that's what you're there for.
Britni
Visiting colleges is a good way to get a feel for campuses and to talk to the people personally. Asking students that go there is a good way to get answers about how the college is also.
Michael
Everyone is going to struggle a little with classes and living on there own, so don't get down if you do poorly in a class. Almost everyone has to retake a class at some point. And don't be afraid to meet and hang out with new people, there are a lot of awesome people out there. And parents should let there kids figure out what they want to do and then just support them.
Brandon
I tell people that wherever you go to make sure to enjoy the experience because it's one like no other. It's the first time that most kids are independent which means that some growing up and responsibility is involved. There is definately plenty of fun to be had, but the key is to work hard so that you can play hard later. Make sure that wherever school you choose to be sure to give it a chance. Lots of people miss out on great opportunities because of being homesick, which is normal, but it will pass and you will grow from it.
Leila
I would advise both parents and students to listen to eachother and really work together to make the best decision possible for the student, both educationally and financially. Parents should guide their student but not completely control the decision process. The student needs to make a confident decision about the college they will attend because without that confidence, his or her college experience will not be the best it can be. Whether a student is going for journalism or health administration the student must be confident that they can better themselves and achieve their goals all while taking in the college experience, which is an exciting time in there life where they are molding their future possibilities. At the end of a semsester in economics, my professor asked, "What is your added value?" The question is really taking a look at what a person can bring to the table to differentiate themselves from the rest of the people out there trying to make a name for themselves. When looking for the right college I think it is very important for the student to believe that their choice will bring added value to they have to offer.
Kadi
I would choose a college that offers the best courses in order to help you quickly and efficiently complete your major. Talk to employers in your area in the field you are planning on going into, and let them recommend schools that they think highly of as far as a degree goes. There are many well respected universities to choose from.
Austin
Pick a school that fits your personality, not necessarily one that is popular. Also, visiting the campus is the best way to learn about it, rather than just looking at the website.
Wesley
College is what you make of it. At every college you go to you will find hard workers and you will find slackers. You will find loners and socialites. Although many school have have reputations for different characteristics, the best thing to do is actually visit the campus and follow your gut feeling. You will connect with a campus's vibe for one reason or another. In any case, college is never going to be a piece of cake. With classes and homework and monumental decisions to be made, it is essential that you love the school you choose if you want to get the most out of your college experience.