Elizabeth
Look for a school where you'll be happy. You want to go to a place where it'll feel okay for having left home. You should go to a school that will give you exactly what you are looking for.
Corey
Research, research, research. Attending college is an investment and you should treat it as one. Look at all the opportunities the school offers in your own individual perspective: academically, financially, socially and culturally. First, make sure that the academics offered at the school will open up the opportunity to repay the money you are paying to attend. Make sure that your major areas of interest are included in their curriculum and remember your mind may change, so do not limit yourself. Second, search within a reasonable price range for yourself because these loans will never leave you. Loans are good and fine, but do not go overboard. Third, you MUST visit the school that you are planning to attend. The feel of a school is very important. If you are not comfortable at a school, you will either one, not do well; or two, have a poor overall experience. Lastly, look into the school's social life and its cultural diversity. Does it offer the resources for you to thrive socially and culturally? If not, keep searching. This is one of the biggest decisions of your life. Now research thoroughly and invest wisely.
Jasmine
A small college creates a more personal environment for learning. My school is intimate enough that the teachers know all their students' names, and within a year of taking classes most students know each other. It's easier for me to learn in such an environment.
Alex
Make sure you ask all the basic questions, talk to students who attend the school, and see if they have a program that allows you to stay there with a student for a weekend. Doing all that should help you decide if that school is appropiate for you.
Kieri
Apply to a lot of schools and really think about your decision. Don't be afraid to go outside of your comfort zone as far as where you are looking to go and the small schools love to give financial aid so don't just dismiss them. It is a true learning experience and be sure to do your research but remember to stay excited and upbeat...this is something that you will never forget.
Rachel
Look at every college you can and talk to people about the colleges because students are the ones who know the best. Also don't hold back or be too nervous and be yourself! Have an open mind and make a lot of friends as well as get involved!
Sandy
Take the college very seriously and don't be afraid to ask questions. I would definitely suggest letting the student stay with a freshmen in order to get a real idea of what the compus life is like. Had I done that, I would not have chosen the way I did, but all I had were the visits with my family. I think something like "Senior Days" is the most important way to decide on a college.
Ian
find one that cares about you - where you're not just a number - that's Westminster
Kate
Visiting a college is the most important part of the selection process. The earlier you start, the better. I visited Westminster my junior year of high school and absolutely loved, and then I went back my senior year for an overnight visit and I was hooked. There's nothing like visiting a school to help you decide whether a school is right. It may sound perfect on paper but be populated with jerks, or it might sound like a safety school until you visit and you love everything about it. If it's an option, I would also suggest sitting in on a class. If you go on a tour, ask your guide for his or her email address and feel free to ask anything about the school. The students know the school best, and asking them outside of a formal setting like a tour will get you real, honest answers.