Amileah
I remember my high school college counselor telling me that most students change their major 4-5 times before graduation. Even with his advice, I thought I had everything figured out. I had top-notch grades and an appointment to the Air Force Academy; why change anything? After three semesters at the Academy, I finally came to the realization that it was not for me. I loved the Air Force, but I did not feel like I fit in very well.
So there I was, at the college of my dreams and I was completely unhappy. When I made the decision to disenroll and seperate from the Air Force, I chose to apply to UW-Milwaukee. After two semesters, I was working with faculty with notariety in their fields on ground-breaking research projects. I've flourished here like never before. The advice people give you is true: choose a school where you feel like you belong. The key to success in college, as I understand it, is to be where you love and STUDY what you love. Also, get involved on campus, it can't hurt to make new friends along the way!
Amber
I think picking UW-Milwaukee is a good choice for being hardworking and wanting to gain some lifetime friends. You are usually expected to work your hardest and in some classes give your opinions, no matter how crazy they sound. Some problems that I have noticed is that the financial aid offices always have problems, the billing offices always get confused and send 2 to 3 bills to the same person but the name is spelt many different ways, and the advising could use some more knowledge about advising.
Tory
I would advise parents and/or students that when finding the right college to make sure they know what they want to do. If they do not exactly know what they want to major in then they should try a two year collge and get their generals out of the way. They can save a lot of money that way and take the time to really find out who they are. I would also advise them not to go to a school because their friends or boyfriend is planning on going there. They can always visit friends or make new friendships that last forever. Also, boyfriends and girlfriends break up. Your goal in life does not always match your friends or partner's. I would advise them to get involved with activities or clubs that relate to their field. In the long run that will them find friends, network, and build a resume for future jobs. The most important thing I would tell them is not only to enjoy themselves, but to work hard and keep their grades up. I've seen too many people fail because they let their social life get the way of school.
Dena
I would advise the student to make sure they are comfortable with the atmosphere of the campus and to familiarize themselves with the campus layout and surrounding area. I woud also stress that starting with a 12 credit workload might be a good idea to get the student introduced to school without burning them out. I believe if the student is confident they want a four year degree, their parents will be confident as well and more likely to support the student's choice to continue education regarless of location. I would advise the new student to live on campus, in a dorm for example, to meet as many people as possible. Netwoking and meeting people is critical for success in most situations including group tudying or ultimately finding a career.
carrie
Look for a school that has a great progrem in the field you want to pursue and a school where you will feel comfortable among your peers.
Alexandra
Don't underestimate small schools. They usually offer a better education.
Kristin
Before giving any advice about college to parents, I would say teach your child about the value of a dollar. I worked in highschool but I did not save as much as I should have. I was young, and nobody really stressed the importance of saving for my college career. I now think about money everyday and wonder if I was given a chance to have more money to go for my college education that I could expand my boundaries of what I want out of my college experience instead of being limited to how many credits I can take because of money.
For choosing the right college, you need to have a few in mind and visit them. Research them and decide what college matches your hobbies and plans for the future. Plan a visit and get a feel for the place. You need to picture youself living there and what benifits come along with it (Location, friends, majors). To get the most out of your experience once you are there my advice would be to open yourself up to new experiences. Make yourself try new things. It is a rewarding feeling opening yourself up to new experiences.
JeffCavanaugh
Go visit the college visit friends there and have fun. Don't hold anything back and be open to new experiences. live life the the fullest
Kelly
When searching for the right college, location is very important. As a student, you may either be more comfortable in a smaller country city or a big city. Personally, I chose a school close to home. If you have never been away from home, it is easier to adjust when you know your family isn't too far away. Also, find a school that is diverse. It will help you to learn more about yourself and your true interests.
Stephanie
Pay attention to finances, undergraduate programs and living costs!