Sarah
No matter how many pictures are observed, comments are read, and recommendations are taken, to explore a place it is necessary to physically go to that location. For most looking at many brochures on colleges, every college seems to become the same. It is very different, however, when feet are put to pavement and a student enters that college's culture. Once there, if there are any uncomfortable feelings which arise regarding the college itself, it is probably not the right place for that student. It is different if the student becomes excited and enthusiastic.; further exploration must happen. Financial aid should always be a factor in education. Most of the time there is much financial aid to go around but not enough willing participants. Most financial aid counselors will work hard to see that student attend the college. Therefore, explore. Explore the campus, the academics, the financial aid, the students, the professors, and more. Then retract and reflect. If it does not feel right, it probably is not.
Christopher
Get out of your damn dorm and get involved with something.
Carolyn
VISIT VISIT VISIT! Talk to students who go there, not only the ones giving you a tour but the regular individuals. Don't freak out about finding the right school right off the bat, schools blieve it is very important for indivudals to find their right place and fit in to do thier best, and are very accomidating.
Sarah
I know when I started looking at different schools in highschool I knew that I wanted a college that was not a big university, small class size, in a fun enviorment and still in state. I would look online and type in different things you want in a college. Like for me when I was searching on google I typed in, "Small colleges in Colorado" and it brought up a big list of some great small 4 year colleges that I would really enjoy. Also parents go to college night with your kids and both of you look at different colleges that you both could agreee on. Also for parents allow your child to express why they chose that school rather than the school that you want them to go to. It will make it easier for you both to understand what is out there and to both agree on some things like small class size, learning disablities help, and much more. And also when college admissions come to your highschool check them out and ask them as much questions as you want to. They want to help you. Trust me.