Washington State University Top Questions

I would tell parents and students to not worry or stress so much. Choosing a college can be a stressful time, but only if you make it that way. It is, however, something that should be taken seriously. Being organized is something that I found helped me a lot when I was looking for the right college, and it definitely made it easier to look at what was offered at each school. Once you are in college, to get the most out of your experience there, I would suggest becoming as involved as you can in clubs and other activities, and don't be afraid to say hi to people! College is the place where you meet new people and make new friends, if you just sit back too afraid to talk to anyone you won't get that chance to make such good friends.

The best advice I would give students about finding the right college would be to listen to their heart and go where they want to go to. It is crucial to do research to learn as much as possible about each of the programs they are looking to attend. But the most important thing is to go where they really want to go. If they do not listen to their heart in this decision they are not following their dreams. When I was looking at colleges I wanted to attend, I did that exact thing. It came down to two schools, both of which had great programs, great campuses and had great coaches who had recruited me. I knew deep down I wanted to attend Washington State University more than any other program. In the end, I chose Washington State Univeristy and it has been the greatest but hardest decision of my life. Looking back on it this decision, I know I made the right choice. Through my years here I have been working towards a degree and many doors are opening for graduate school. I trusted and followed my heart and now my dreams are coming true.

The best advice that I can give parents and/or student about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience depends on the student. If the student applying does not have a clear direction or idea of what he or she would like to do, I would look at a variety of schools and their offered courses, and find one with several different focuses. This allows a person to find classes that interest them in different areas of study, allowing him or her to find a general direction and later refine that direction. With regard to the student who knows what he or she wants to do and where he or she wants to go, I would advise that student, or his or her parents to take their time and seriously consider each school that has a serious program in their particular field, especially if it is connected to a graduate program in that field, and weigh what will best suit him or her. There are many schools that only have a reputation or a name, but finding a school that truly prepares a person for his or her life is the most valuable quality.

Make sure that you know what you want to study BEFORE you go to college in order to get your (or your parent's) money's worth for your education.

I would tell the parents and the students to not just focus on the social aspect of school, because if you are serious about your future, you will probably have a small social life. You may still have opportunities to socialize, but students should not just go to a school because their friends go there, or it is a party school. Also consider branch campuses because you can stay at home and save some money! Plus, there is also the perk of free food and someone to do your laundry. Planning ahead is also the best thing a person can do.

The best advice one can give is to attend the school that is the best fit both academically and personally. When visiting campuses be sure to check average class sizes, internship/research opportunities, on and off-campus dorms/apartments, and the extracurricular activities offered. Ask students attending the college how they feel about the class availability and effectiveness, as well as the atmosphere of the campus. College is not just about the classes, but about the environment as a whole. Make sure the college picked is conducive to learning and social activity. As for how to make the most of college once you are there, the best advice would have to be to enjoy it. Enjoy the classes, the campus, the students, and the activities. Don't get too caught up in academics, and find a way to balance college life. Take advatage of the help that is offered, such as tutors, study groups and review sessions. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and meet new people. College is one of the few places in life where you will be surrounded by such a wide variety of people. Don't ignore the opportunities that surround you.

Focus on you want on the perfect campus and then find that one with the most matching things from your list. There's no point in going to a school just for the courses when you can't grow and develop yourself.

Parents should leave the decision up to their child/student. Pressuring your child to go to a school because of financial, location, alumni status are not necessarily good reasons. I understand the financial end to some degree. However, if the student is motivated, there are ways and means to attend their dream college. Remember, options are good. Apply to more than one school. Apply to those who fit your criteria. The Princeton Review book of colleges was very helpful to our family. A student will be most successful and more importantly happy and well adjusted if they are attending the school - THEY choose not the one the parents persuade them to attend. Get involved. Join a group of interest. Know your teachers. Participate. Communicate with both faculty and family!

The most important component in finding the right college is the evaulation criteria you use to compile a list of possible schools. Selecting where you want to go to college is an extremely personal decision. You will surely get suggestions from family, friends, teachers and counselors. You should also consider attending college fairs, where you can actually meet representatives from the schools. Review your offers closely. If the school youwant to attend made a low aid offer, consider contacting the school with a counter offer. Many schools have become willing to negotiate in this area. Once you have arrived, don't take college for granted. Reach out to people; you will make lifelong friends and experience tremendous personal growth. This includes getting to know at least one faculty member reasonably well each semester. Take coursework that includes both required classes and others that pique your interests & stimulate your imagination. Play/watch varsity & intramural sports. Read those books/magazines/papers that students talk about most. Attend special lectures, plays, concerts. Join a student group that is passionate about something. Protest something at least once. Stay up late discussing controversial topics with friends. Don't hide academic problems. Learn time management.

Don't rush and find the right college for you. If you are distracted by problems with the school it will cause further problems when you go there. Find a college which is strong in the field you want to pursue, but has enough variety that you can change your majors if you so choose.