Arizona State University-Tempe Top Questions

College is a learning experience. Its a time in your life that prepares you for the rest of your life. Have fun with it while knowing why you are there in the first place. As well as take the time to get to know the college while you are there. Don't just be another statistic to the mass. Be an architect, an athlete, artist, designer, anything that you want to be. If you want to get it done work hard, but just as well get out and meet people. College is a time to try new things, take risks, look for and find your place in the world that is ours. Everyone has their place, make your claim and show it off to the world. Be smart and make educated choices, study when you need to, sleep when you can, and have fun when you're all done. It's college, learn in it, live it, love it!

I believe that the overall atmosphere of a college is what is important. People should pick their college based on their personality, as well as what they find important in a school. If grades and academics are important to someone, they should find a school that places a lot of importance on grades and competition. Students should also keep in mind if they are outgoing, and want to be involved in extracurricular activities, because they should consider this in the amount of time they have aside from studying. Picking a college is not as stressful or condemning as it may seem. Most colleges are very similar, with only their emphasis on academics and social life seperating them. However, there is always another side to every story. Even at ASU, quite the upbeat, outgoing school, there is a place for conservatives and shy people. Anyone can fair well at any school: it lies in the person to make that choice. An optimistic outlook is the key to success in life, which includes making the most of the college experience.

The education you get is based on what you put into it. You can attend a low-cost, public state university and get the same education that you would at an Ivy League school, if you spend time with your professors, read your materials, go to class, and engage yourself and others.

Be sure to look into all your options. Visit all the campuses in person and arrange to sit in on classes if possible. Try to get a good feel of what the campus and the community is like before committing to a school.

Choosing which college to attend can be an overwhelming and exhausting task. There are many aspects to consider. The school should not only excel academically, but it should also offer many resources, social activities, and opportunities. Although there are numerous aspects to consider, I personally believe there are three major areas that are the basis for one's decision: size of the school, location of the school, and degrees offered by the school. The size of a school makes a big impact on the amount of social activities and resources offered. Larger schools offer more social opportunities and academic options. Smaller schools tend to be more hyper-focused on specific sports, activities, and resource areas. In addition, the location of the school makes a big difference as well. Living on campus, laundry, parking, having a vehicle, and visiting family is all dependent upon how close the school is to home. And finally, attending a school with degrees specific to your interests is key. If you choose to switch majors, make sure there are other options available that appeal to you. Although there are many aspects to consider, it's important to find a school that fits you and your needs.

To consdiering students and parents, look at the big picture. Always allocate more money and funds than the school 'claims' you need. Do not rely on anyone else, research everything on your own and dont believe a word from anyone else. Get your degree and get out. School today are run like businesses and want your money and even more money. Finish school and get out as quick as possible.

I would suggest to students and their parents that they first research some of the lesser known facets of the colleges they have in mind. Some aspects are more important to some people than others, and I think many people overlook that. If you are interested in research, look at the reputation of your schools as research institutions. If you are interested in the social aspect, first determine if the academics are good enough for your standards, and then look at the surrounding areas and opportunities your schools offer for social interaction. One thing I learned is do not let finances be your deciding factor. You would be suprised at how much money top schools are willing to give you to have you be a part of their student body. Apply for scholarships, grants, and if necessary, student loans. Also consider a part-time job or work study to help cover living expenses. Challenge yourself, but not at the expense of overwhelming yourself. Take your time, and make the most out of college. You only get one first chance.

My advice would be to get into as many colleges as you can and to choose somewhere where you would want to be. It is very important to tour the college before making the decision, but don't choose a college solely on academics.

The advice I would give to a student or parent to find the right school: 1) Tour the school 2) speak with students attending the school 3) Shadow a student in the field of your interest for a day 4) Go to the department of your major and speak with the counselor 5) speak with student in the program you are interested 6) Get a head start and complete all the necessary paperwork in advance 7) Be flexible

I would tell parents and students to find a balance between academia and extra-curricular activites when looking for the perfect school. Make sure the environment is right for you, as you will be there for at least 4 years! Find a school that is confortable in size for you, and somewhere that you will not get lost. If the student is not overly outgoing, they will easily get lost in a large school and may thrive more in a more intimate school environment. Another important thing to remember is that choosing a school is not such a final process. There is always the option of transferring, etc. Basically, just find a place that seems right for you at the time and make the most of it.