Westminster College-New Wilmington Top Questions

I would tell the parents to stay out of it. Don't influence your child on where they should go. And do not tell them they can't go somewhere because of money and if it is because of money work it out with the school and child. Tell your son if he wants to go to a more expensive school he needs to get a job at school and over summer and winter breaks. Even though economic times are tough there are still jobs out there to be had

First of all, keep an open mind. You may think you want to go to one school (like I did) and then you may not get accepted or not like it once you're there. Visit different types of schools: size, available majors/programs, activities offerred. Even if you are not sure about a school, apply anyway, you never know what will happen! You may receive a great financial aid package or realize some things about the school that you think you would enjoy. My second piece of advice for finding the right college is arranging an overnight visit if that is possible. It is a great way to get to meet some students there and get real opinions and experiences. Once you are at college, meet as many people as you can and join clubs or groups that express who you are! This is a great way to meet people and make friends. Don't be afraid to walk down the hall and start a conversation with someone. You never know, this could be a great friendship waiting to happen. On the weekends find campus events to go to or just hang out with friends.

Start early and do your research.

The advice I would give students about finding the right college for them is to look around, do not apply to a school just because a friend does. This is your education and your future; make it about you, not your friends and not your parents. I would highly recommend visiting college campuses and talking with students and former students, along with professors. I would recommend for the students/parents look into their money situation. College is expensive, but it should not steer you away from furthering your education. They are grants and scholarships to help you just be sure you do not get way in over your head with paying for college. Also, college is the best years of your life. You become well rounded individuals and meet many friends and everlasting relationships. Make sure you get involved and help our not only your community, but you campus, if not for you for future students.

To find the right college, you should look at everything, but most importantly, the academics. After all, that's what's going to stick with you once you're done. The best way to determine if a school is right for you is to visit. Talk with current students and just walk around campus on your own. It doesn't take long to get a good idea of whether or not you could fit in there and be happy. To make the most of the experience, just jump in. Don't be shy or hesitant to try new things or meet new people. The majority of experiences aren't bad, but take it all in moderation. Balance school work, social time, alone time, and don't pass up an opportunity, but don't let yourself get overwhelmed either. This is the first time you have such freedom of choice and could be the best part of your life. Above all, have fun.

As a student member of the admissions team, the advice I give to prospective students is "follow your heart." For most, it is easy to tell whether or not is a good fit after visiting campus and observing student life. College is one of the most important life decisions, and not choosing the right one can ruin the entire experience. Prospective students need to decide what is important to them and find an institution with those qualities. Parents of prospective students need to remember that it will not be them going to college, but their son or daughter, and really pay attention to what he or she is looking for. Choosing the 'right' school is a very stressful experience, and added pressure from parents only makes it harder. Be supportive and remember that this is their first step into the real world. They will thank you for helping foster their new independence.

I would say try to find someone you know who goes there - the campus tour guides will never tell you the whole truth. You need someone on the inside who isn't being paid to tell you what you want to hear.