University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Top Questions

The advice I would give to parents and students about finding the right college for them, is to embrace the journey. I serve as an Ambassador at my university and am giving prospective students tours all the time. Many are very overwhelmed at the large decision that is needing to be made, which determines the rest of their life. Instead of getting overwhelmed, it is important to take note on how you feel when you visit a particular place. Ask yourself if the campus feels good and has a good vibe with your personality. Does it offer everything you would like to be a part of or experience throughout your degree of study? All questions are important, and that means don't be afriad to bring them up to faculty, staff and students when touring the University that could end up being your home for 4 or more years. Embrace the journey of choosing the right and college, because it is the only time you get to feel the rush of emotions you do now with your first college. It's a lot like finding that perfect glass slipper to make the right fit for you.

The advice that I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college is take campus visits and see how that college makes you feel about being there. If the university makes you feel welcomed or gives you the feeling of being safe and secure like at your own house usually a good chance that, is the right college for you. When making the most of the college experience, try everything that the college has to offer. Go to sporting events, join organizations, find something to your interest because college has some sort of experience for everyone and make some time to socialize with others because without socializing with others one will never experience the full college experience.

I would tell potential college students and their parents that it is important to tour many different college campuses to make sure they find the college that the student feels most comfortable in. Being in a comfortable environment makes the transition into college much easier and usually coinsides with academic success. College should feel like a home away from home. I would also tell them to get involved in campus organizations and programs. Each campus has a lot to offer in the ways of intramural sports and service oriented programs, and the best part of it is that most of them are offered for free. It's important to branch out and try new things, but it is also important to stay true to your morals and beliefs. It's very beneficial for a student to take advantage of tutoring programs and study groups as well. Most importantly however, is for the student to become a well rounded individual, so chose the college that can offer him/her the best overall education and prepare them with the necessary life skills to succeed later in life.

Don't worry about tuition prices. The right college shouldn't be based on price but what you can get out of it.

VIsit a lot of colleges before you apply to get the feel of the campus - look around campus for class size, study space, affordability, etc.

In order to make a smooth transition into college, I suggest incoming freshman find a university setting that they feel comfortable in. Living away from friends and family can be frustrating enough. Why add on to that frustration by allowing students to submerge themselves into a university that dosen't relate to their lifestyle? Whether freshman plan on attending a college far from home, or nearby, they should make sure that at least part of the campus they choose reflects their personality. I lived out in the country durring my high school years, so I have always been accustomed to peace and quiet. The university I attend lies just outside the city, leaving the campus quiet enough for my taste. I wouldn't be able to stand staring at nothing but buildings outside my dorm window. When looking for colleges, I made sure that my campus had plenty of plant life to view. Students should keep in mind how the life of the campus they choose compares to the life they have known at home. Students will be able to make the most of their college experience only when they can feel comfortable in the new college setting.

go where you want to go and will be successful

I would tell them to look around, visit all of colleges that are on their minds. Do not go see a college that you like just because its a little too far, or a little too expensive. Finding a college that is right for you and what your parents like as well is the most important. Also, do not let where your other friends are going affect where you go. I've seen that in my school, where half the class (of 30 kids), went to the same college. I think that is disappointing because they are missing out on many opportunities to make new friends and see different places. Put a lot of emphasis on doing well, because you will regret it later. Do not overload yourself with too much to do, like working too many hours at a job. Do not leave every weekend if your campus gets to be a little deserted. Stay and put forth an effort to make friends, and do fun things around campus. Talk to your professors! Most of them time, they will give you a better grade if they know you are worried about how you are doing in that class.

Finding the right college is about physically going there and getting a feel for a day at that college. You will know it is right for you as you walk around and try to picture yourself going through your day to day activities. Whether you visit on a campus preview day or just on your own, take the time to visit. It could change everything! It did for me! It is easy make the most of your college experience! Get involved! There are so many clubs and organizations on campus that you can be a part of. I joined a community service based sorority and I love the rewarding feeling I get when I help out my community and campus. Being involved helps you build relationships with the faculty and staff that may help you down the road as well! As parents, you need to support your child with whatever it is they decided to do. You need to let them pick a school that is right for them, not you. As long as they know they have your love and support, they will do great!

Don't stay close to home. Students will have to find ways to fend for themselves and won't rely on parents. The farther away from home makes a stuent more independent.