Amie
When choosing a college, parents and students should look at a variety of different campuses. I wish I had looked more into the colleges I had applied to and even applied to more colleges than I had. The right college isn't always about if your friends will be there or not. It's important to pick the one that is right for YOU and also your major. It is also important to pick a college with in a safe and nice area. This is where you will be staying for several years, so you better enjoy the place you're living at.
To make the most of your college experience you need to be outgoing. Don't be afraid to get involved with different school activites. It is also important to learn your views on different moral issues because every college student is faced with hard decisions. Also, don't forget to study hard and not party all the time. It's easy to take college for granted if you don't take it seriously.
Deborah
Visit all of the college campuses and google the college for info on safety on campus
Candy
Go with what the student wants its always the best choice
Michele
You should look very deeply into your intended major to make sure the college offers what you are looking for. Also, visit the school while it is in session so you can see the students and classes. While attending college, get involved so you can meet others and open opportunities.
Trenton
Never stop thinking about the future. Keep in mind that the next 2-7 years will determine the rest of your life. Also remember that there is no such thing as perfect, sometime in your life you're going to have to make compromises. Every school you look at will have some things you like and some things you don't like, but you will never find a school with nothing you don't like. But before you decide what you like and don't like about a school, you must decide what's most important to you. Is reputation important? How about the sports programs? cost? Only you can decide whats important but once you do and narrow your choice of schools down to 2 or 3 go visit them. Pictures can only show you so much and words can only tell you so much, you have to go experience and make sure it feels right to you. You'll never make it though 4 years of being uncomfortable. Never be afraid to ask questions on a college visit. A student that's been there for multiple years can give much better insight than a web site or brochure.
Bethany
I would say to any incoming freshman to learn their school inside and out. It will be very important later.
Cynthia
Make sure that you know your program will stay there and you will be able to get into the classes. Your student will want to be focused otherwise you won't succeed! If they need help see if you can get a tutor because they will be able to help.
Jessica
The advice that I would give to parents and students who are trying to find the right college is to choose one that feels the most comfortable and accomodating for the student, even if it costs more than others or if it is farther away than others. If a student does not feel comfortable at the university that they choose, they will never want to stay there. Also, they should choose a university based on what the student plans to study. For example, if the student plans to study business, they should choose a university with an accredited business school or one that stands out from the rest. The degree and quality of education that the student receives is more important than where the school is located or how much it costs. To make the most of the college experience I think that the student should live in student housing for at least the first year to help make friends and to get a good feel of how the classes are and what the campus is like. Finally, the student should take every opportunity that they come accross to help them succeed in their field of study.
David
Find a college or university that you are comfortable with, and can afford. Don't stress about going to college, because your first year will be a way to find out everything you need to know.
Stephanie
To find the right college all you have to do is look around and meet the people. Make sure the size is right for you and housing is just what you want. Don't settle, for anything you do not want. Find exactly what you are looking for. Check out the food and meet professors. Ask other students what they think about the college and what they do for fun. Make sure you will be able to enjoy your college experiene, after all, you will rememberit for the rest of your life. If you stay on campus, try to get along with everyone, it makes things more enjoyable. Make friends, because you never know who will end up being a lifelong friend. Most of all, enjoy college because youre are there for atleast four years. One more thing, keep up on your studies. College is expensive no matter where you go and you don't want to waste your money. Good luck and have fun at whatever college you choose that right for you!
Andrew
Follow your instinct. Do what you want and don't get influence from others.
Jessica
The best advice I could give to parents and students about finding the right college is to make sure to research and visit every college you are considering. I would also recommend participating in an overnight visit because you never truly know if a school is a good fit until you experience, first hand, what the school has to offer. Making the most of your college experience is very simple, take every opportunity you are given and run with it. If you are interested in something, try it. In college, never take one moment for granted because you may never get it back again. Seize the moment while you are in college! Take the reins of your life and begin to guide them in the direction you want to go. Most importantly, have fun!
Korey
stay focused from day one
Sarah
When it comes to finding the perfect college it takes a lot of research and college visits to know for sure which college is for you. I started visiting colleges my junior year of high school and this helped me out a lot. It is also important to know that you can apply to as many colleges as you want. Also, do not take rejection to badly. Rejection is a part of life and something you need to take lightly.
Once you make it to the college of your choice it is very important to get yourself out there and make a name for yourself. The more involved you are, the better your college career is going to be. My freshman year I was not very involved and went home often. However, this year I am on the executive board of three different organizations and not only has this given me something to do in my freetime, it has also aquainted me with many people and has done wonders with networking for me. College years are the best years of your life, so have fun while getting ahead in academics and the work force.
Jessica
Finding the right college is a hard process, you should definately go and visit the school first and see if you really like the environment. If there are any programs where you can stay with someone or meet with someone and talk about the school I strongly suggest that you do so. Parents should help their children in making their decision, visit the schools with your children and assist them in making their decision but realize that altimately it is the students decision to make. For students making the most of your college experience you should join clubs, or go out and participate in activities going on campus. Get out there and meet new people, make new friends, step out of your comfort zone. Don't just do school yes your education is important but so is your social life. You will need a social life to have friends who will help you make college fun and enjoyable. Don't do anything if you are going to have it later. College should be fun.
Hilary
To the student, do you research and find a school that you will be comfortable in. Not a school that everyone else is going to not a popular school but a school tallered to you. To the parents, know you child/children are going to make mistakes be it with grades or life just be there for them and know that it is only temporary. Also, parents help your child out financially when it comes to school. Go to the bank with your child, show them the responsabilities it is going to take to be an adult in the real world. Show them how easily credit cards can get them into trouble and sit down with a banker and talk about student loans and repayment periods.
jherica
if you choose a school choose it for yourself and not for anyone else, not even the parents because their not going you are. my mother dictated my decision and i somewhat regretted it. and have good credit
Cassie
Visit collges and speak to current students at the college (NOT TOUR GUIDES) rather than relying on what the admissions department spoon feeds you.