West Chester University of Pennsylvania Top Questions

Chose the school that is best for you! Know the surrounding area also!

Visit the school! Just because books rave about a specific college, doesn't mean it is right for you. You yourself have to imerse yourself into the school and see if it really fits you. Its all about how you fit into the school. If you dont see yourself living, learning, and socializing at a school, dont settle; keep searching! Find a school that you love!

If I could provide advice to future students about finding the right college, I would tell them to find the school that offers what they are looking for academically and socially, while making sure it is financially feasible. A campus visit is crucial to help decide if the campus feels right. Without knowing anything about West Chester, I knew it was the school for me just based on a campus visit. It only helped that it was perfect for what I wanted to major in and that it was very affordable at the same time. In terms of making the most of the college experience, I would definitely say get involved in something. That is the absolute best way to meet people on campus and form relationships with fellow students. I have met some of my best friends in college through organizations in which I actively participate.

It is a very important to not do what I did to find the correct college for you. I only applied to one school, and luckily I was accepted to this one school. I wanted to go there because it has a wonderful music education program, and I used to have piano competitions at this school when I was younger. I had always said I was going to go to West Chester when I get older, and that is the school that was the one school that I applied and got accepted to. It is crucial for the students to research many colleges, but if there is one school that a you have always had your heart set on, then it's important to "go" for that school. Don't let anyone try to force you to go to a school that your heart is not set on. To make the most out of your college experience, it is important to be in a major that you enjoy and want to pursue. Don't just take random classes to make your family happy. You must make yourself happy, and that means to be preparing for your career and future.

I think that it is most important for the student to go where he or she wants to. They need to be very clear about what they want. If that student wants a good education program, they shouldn't go to a school that is famous for sports or law. If they want to remain close to home, they shouldn't look at schools that are far away. A lot of times friends and family can try to convince you that what they want is what you want. It usually ends with students being unhappy. They may remain there or transfer, or change majors, all of which will cost a fair amount of additional money. I also believe that if a student is undecided, they should not enter a pricey school. They can continue their education at a community college and transfer when they have set goals in mind. Make the most of your time in school by learning as much as you can and by trying new things. It becomes much harder to try a new hobby once you've graduated and are working. Spend time with friends too, because that becomes harder post graduation.

Visiting the school will only give you an idea of what the campus looks like and not much else. That doesn't mean not to visit but take what you hear during the tour and what you see with a grain of salt. Talk to people that have gone to the school: many random students on the street would be willing to talk to a potential student and thier parent(s).

When choosing a college, I would majorly consider the type of environment you want to be around and the kinds of activities or organizations you would like to be involved in. Going to a college that has a strong program for your desired degree is a necessity; however, getting involved on campus is what really allows you to make the most of your college experience. There are always opportunities to meet new people, and when you get involved in an organization made up of people with your similar interests, you are bound to make friends that could potentially last forever. In my opinion, education is important; however, relationships are essential. Finding a college that will give you the education you need for your career goals but will also suit your needs for fellowship and friendships with peers is the best formula for ensuring the greatest college experience possible.

I would say find the right size school for yourself so you will not feel overwhelemed. Make sure you are not too far or too close to home. If you have a major in mind that you would like to study find a school that has a great program. Don't settle because you don't think you can't afford it.

To potential students: Visit the campus and make sure you walk around and feel comfortable in it, make sure it is the right size for you. Try to look at the different dorm rooms and make sure you would enjoy living inthem. Find out the female to male ratio, it will give you an idea of what your social life might be like. Find out if anyone you know is attending the same school and maybe room with them or just start to talk to them a little more, just to have someone to go out with during your first few days of school. BE SOCIAL. You can't avoid classes and exams, that's taken care of for you basically, but partying is not. Partying on the weekends is usually routine, so find the best fraternities and sororities on campus and and join on, or at least make friends. Most of all though, just have fun. To parents: Let your child have fun, you can't stop them anyway. Let them grow up and support them in any way necessary. They may be out on their own, but they will always need your support. Money makes our life easier

Visit the school you are thinking of attending. Talk to real students - not just administrators. They will truly be able to tell you what your life will be like there. See the surrounding area as well. Remember, you're probably not going to spend all your time at the school - make sure you like the area as well. Be careful freshman year - it's easy to get lost in your newfound freedom. Don't forget: you're there for an education. We all have a spell where we sleep through classes and go out partying every night. That's okay, but stay focused. Don't let your partying days get you to the point where you're failing school. As the saying goes, "All things in moderation". At the same time, don't forget that college is more than the classroom. Enjoy it - get out and do something. Make friends. You'll learn just as much outside the classroom as you will inside it. Be open to others experiences, cultures, and background. You'll learn so much about life in college - take advantage of it! Inside and outside the classroom, college helps you become an adult. Enjoy it!