University of Southern Maine Top Questions

The best advice I can give about finding the right college is to start early, set goals, and be realistic. Students who tell themselves that they'll narrow their college choices down to say five, for example, are more likely to get everything accomplished in a reasonable amount of time. After all, not only do they have to then apply to all five of these colleges and complete everything that that entails, but they must also complete other applications later on--something that will seem easier if they don't have 20 different applications for loans and scholarships to fill out along with a wide variety of admissions essays to write. As for making the most of the college experience, the best advice I can give is to get involved and to take charge of your life--particularly time management. Join clubs and sports or take part in school production--it helps you feel more involved and it's a great way to make friends, both of which ease the pain of homesickness. Don't put off studying or writing papers until the last minute, because the college workload can snowball quickly and rather uncontrollably.

To research the university before enrolling.

Finding the right college is never an easy thing and is usually very stressful. The best part about finding a college are the college trips; it really helps with family bonding and realizing how much family means. Looking at colleges makes one realize that it's time to go away from home, be exposed to the real world, and really see what life has to offer. The best part about going to college is deciding on a major and making sure it's what you want to do. What I realized in this process was that my college found me, it was an easy choice and I'm glad i made the decision i did. College is the best places to make your life long friends. As a freshman in college, everyone is in the same boat trying to make new friends, this year is particularly essential in finding your best friends in the long run. Overall, the college experience may be difficult but it will be the best decision you will make.

The best advice I could give to parents and also students about finding the right college would be to visit the campuses together and discuss the pros and cons of each school. Don't pick a school to go to based on your friends, your family, or anyone else but you. To make the most of your college experience I would encourage all students to get involved in at least one extracurricular activity during your time at college. Don't be afraid of reaching out to your classmates or your professors for help in and out of class. The college work load is much heavier than what you have experienced in high school, and procrastinating will only lead to more stress. Get things done on time, and attend classes even when attendance is not required. Going to class will be the best tool for you to understand how the class is progressing, and what you need to know for upcoming tests. Pick the college that you feel comfortable with, get involved with your school, and attend classes to receive the best education that your college has to offer.

I would reccommend the student and or parent to help eachother research on universities that would be most fitting. If you're from a small town and kind of worry about size, look for a nice small private college. If being near home is an important factor, look at the possible universities surrounding your state. If you're from a cold part of the United States, and you just want to be able to enjoy warm weather all year long, then that is also another factor to look into. When looking for schools, look at the financial aid pacakage because getting the help will be beneficial for parents and students when it comes to repaying the loans back. Social life is important, you don't want to be anywhere too quiet where there aren't many activities to do. Pick some place where you are comfortable to walk outside on your own and just feel safe all around. One last important thing, is visiting the campus. This is extremely important because if you go and visit the campus and the department of which you are interested in, you get a feel of what it is like, a first hand experience.

First off, it is important for students to feel that they have real potential at a University. Although the college hunting experience may be stressful, it is important to try to find a University that students feel comfortable in. Parents: although your child?s school of choice might come with a bit of a price tag, it is important that they feel as though you are behind them 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. Support in their choices is crucial. Also, it is important that you give your child space to adjust and think for his/her own ? try not to pressure them on where to go; pressure leads to stress, and stress leads to unhappiness. Make this experience one to remember. Student life can be tough at first, but like all things, it takes time to adjust. A little heads up: the biggest factor in college is time management. Learning how to manage your time makes for a much easier and stress free college experience. I personally took a class on stress and time management, and I learned a lot from it. I would suggest any college prospect to do the same. Last thing: live it up and learn about something you love.

I would recommend applying for financial aid as soon as you can and to continue to do so throughout a college career. Education is the most important thing that someone can give a person. The best advice I could give to someone is to make college fun and successful. Take risks and don't be afraid if you make mistakes, usually the risks are worth it in the long run.

Take your time and do research. Make a connection with peer advisors at institutions so that you can get a feel for the attitude and integrity of the school. Although it may sound cliche, getting involved will not only help you feel connected, but it will help your resume and character. Also, it is important to know that it is ok and normal to not know exactly what you want to be "when you grow up". Do not be afraid to transfer schools, sometimes there is just a better fit out there for you! Finally, do not be afraid to take advantage of resources at school...your paying for them!

Make sure you focus on more than just your major. Academics are definately important, but make sure the schools surroundings, extra-curriculars, and social scene interest you too because that school could very well end up being you home for a few years. Also, talk to current students and read up on how helpful administrators and professors are because unhelpful staff can end up making your college years miserable. Lastly, look to see how happy current students are and how successful the alumni are.

Make sure that you consider cost when you pick universites. Don't go somewhere that's way out of your budget, but don't go somewhere where you're going to be unhappy. Parents: don't try to force a school on your kids, it may make you happy but they won't be. Students: get involved! It's not like high school where you have all your classes with the same people. In order to make friends, join groups that interest you, and even if you don't like it in the end, no one's going to get mad at you for being too busy and quitting.