Augustana College Top Questions

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Many students look for colleges according to the accreditations of study, and also the social life. Being in college for almost three years and transferring once from a big university, I found that choosing a college should be a slow, very serious proccess. The important choices a nearly first-year has to decide on are classroom sizes, diversity, environment, and much more. Yes the social component seems appealing to many students, but one has to realize that college is a major move on what the outcome occupation of the student will be - take it seriously. Do not take it totally seriously though - one should have fun once in awhile and make sure that a time to relax is fitted in the student's busy schedule. One should feel comfortable and happy with the environment around them. If a student has one bit of distress, the rest of their college career may be a disappointment.

I think that the most important thing when deciding on a college is to think of several things that are important and stick to those. For example, if a student really wants to go to a small school where the class sizes are smaller then that is what he or she should look for. Don't let outside opinions or friend's choices influence the decision. Most students know what they want and what will work best for them so the decision should ultimately be theirs. Also, don't be afraid to go on a gut feeling. I liked several campuses I visited and I probably would be have been happy at those schools, but when I visited the school that I currently attend, I knew that was exactly where I belonged. Finally, don't be afraid to try new things and get involved on campus. A student should try multiple things and then stick with the most enjoyable activities. Work hard, but don't forget to have fun every once in a while too!

There isn't always a "feeling" of the correct school. I never had a "feeling" of which college was right for me - instead I had to rely on course offerings, financial aide, and my general feelings to make my descision. I made sure to choose a school that offered a wide variety of majors that I was interested in. I know, from personal experience, that majors CHANGE! It's good to go to a school that offers choices and a chance to explore instead of being stuck in a major you don't enjoy! Also, the final decision for the school should be the student's choice. It is very important that parents are involved in their child's college descision, but it's up to the student to decide where they want to study for THEIR future. And lastly, RELAX! Choosing a college can be a very scary and stressful decision! Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and imagine yourself in the college of your choice. Can you see yourself living there? Having fun? Studying? Learning? Have fun with the process - it's a big decison, but I'm sure you'll make the right choice!

The best piece of advice I could give to parents and to students is, visit as many places as you need to till you find somewhere where you feel like your home. As soon as I got out of the car at Augie and looked around I immediately new this is where I was supposed to go to school. Once you find that place the application process and everything that involves going to college becomes 10 times easier. Also, just enjoy visiting schools and do not stress, you'll find where you need to be!

Find out the amount of financial aid they tend to give. Also, find out the class sizes and student to teacher ratio if that is important to you.

Let your child pick where he\she wants to go. DO NOT MAKE IT YOUR CHOICE AT ALL!