Washington State University Top Questions

The best advice I can offer for a parent about looking for the right school would be that you probably know your kid better that anyone, and if you think they will do well at one school push them toward it. Remember that the first semester of school is going to be both hard on the parent and student, so let time help the situation. Personally I didnt even like school until the second semester where I had a group of freinds I could hang out with on a regular basis and a basic study schedule to balance my time and social life.

I would advise the other parents and student to make the same approach that my parents told me to use. They need to look at the whole picture when deciding what college/university to attend. It helps to have an idea of what field you plan to study in that way you can start researching which schools have good programs in that field. In my case, business is my general field of study because I want to become a hedge fund manager. WSU has a strong business program and that helped in my decision. Narrow it down to about three to five schools. It may be a good idea to write down all of the pros and cons of each school. Do you want to go to a school that is out of state? A few years ago, I wanted to attend the USC but out-of-state tuition costs and expenses were too much for my parents to pay for. Tour the school to see if you like it. Once you research and carefully think about all of the factors that come into play in your situation; it is fairly easy to find a school that fits for you.

Visit many different schools and choose one that feels like "home." After all, it will be your home for the next four years. A strong community is important to succeeding at school. Talk to current students and find out how they feel about the community. Don't worry about stereotypes surrounding a school. Your college experience is what you make it.

In selecting the right college, academics have to be considered first; does the school provide a solid degree program which will help the student succeed in their chosen career? After all, four years and several thousands of dollars are being invested in this experience ultimately for the academic result. Secondly, the school has to be geopgraphically located so that the student is comfortable with the distance from home and the weather. If, as a student, you hate where you are and are constantly struggling with your distance (or lack thereof) from home and familiarity, you won't be happy and your grades will suffer. A happy student will be less anxious and get better grades. Making the most of your college experience will take stepping out of your comfort zone- you have to be willing to try new things and meet new people. My college social life revolves around a position on a sports team that I hadn't ever even heard of before college. Now the individuals on my team are my best friends and my classmates! Don't be afraid to let college be the most amazing thing you have ever done!

Finding the right college or unviersity that fits who you are can be difficult; however, visiting the campus when classes are in session should be able to give you enough information. Not what the campus tour guides tell you, but what you observe while on campus and the surrounding community. You should pay attention to the interactions that the students are having with each other and seeing if you can picture yourself in their spot with somewhat similar topics since you most likely will be expieriencing similar things. Most importantly is that you have to be able to visualize yourself going to the school without regrets to choice. Once on campus you should make sure to get involved with various student organizations since that will allow you to socialize and develope a network of peers that you can rely on not only socially, but also for career oppurtunities in the future. Good luck with your college search, and remember to just visualize.

When choosing a college or university, you want to find somewhere that you will be comfortable, but also somewhere that will push you to take risks and grow as a person. While your number one goal is to graduate, you also need to be in an environment that will let you grow mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Don't compromise with your college education, since it is the stepping stone to the rest of your life. Find a school that offers all of the programs, services, and experiences that you want to have in college. Don't make a decision about a school based on hearsay or reputations, whether positive or negative, but rather go and visit the campus, talk to current students, and then make that decision for yourself. Lastly, while this is a very important decision, don't be so caught up in it that it negatively affects your well-being. Most schools are very accomidating of transfer students, and if you find yourself somewhere that you aren't being successful, you can always transfer and start again!

Make sure the college you choose is good in the field you will be studying in.

I would say that you should definately come visit the school before you attend it in the upcoming year. Make sure that you are ready for life on and off of campus and know alot about the sports teams. Here at WSU we take a lot of pride in our various sports teams and especially our smaller club teams. It is really a great place to come to school.

Choosing a University can be a stressful experience for students and parents alike. Having gone through the experience myself I know how it feels. My best advice for students is to really focus on choosing a school that makes you feel at home while offering fields of study that interest you. College is a time for you to discover yourself and the school that you choose will have a great impact on that. Try to remember that you are attending college for you so it's you that should feel comfortable with the school. As for making the most of the experience, all I can say is get involved! Academics should come first but it's the things you do outside the classroom that can really shape your college experience. Find a club or sport that interests you and jump right in. Don't be shy, this is your time to make new friends and have a great time. Being involved also helps you feel more a part of the community at your school, and feeling at home can help make your experience a more positive one. Never be nervous to try something new, that's what college is for!

Most students attend universities that they are familiar with or that their parents went to. Even though this is a safe choice for some, I would encourage students and families to take the time to research colleges as well as personal interests way before applying to school. Certain interests appeal differently to each person, whether it be for academics or just to see the other side of the country. When it comes down to choosing which school to actually attend, go with your heart and initial instict. Be confident in yourself and families be confident that your student is indeed making the right choice. When it comes to making college memorable, it isn't a hard thing to do. Live on campus, in a dorm or greek house and right away you will see and hear about new things that might spark your interests. College is just the beginning of something bigger and better so trust in yourself and make the right decisions that will influence your future.