Rachel
First of all, go to the school with a plan. Figure out your goal(s) and then research all your options carefully in order to know what your best possible option would be. Look carefully at all the time and money requirments for any major you might be interested in. Most importantly, your perspective should be as realistic and practical as possible, that is, don't just look at what your dream is or what would be the greatest achievement. That is all well and good, but life gets in the way, and so you need to be as down-to-earth as possible. Always strive for the best, but make sure it is reachable.
Erin
Choosing the college you or your student will attend is not something to take lightly. The process can be difficult, as there are many factors to consider, but among the most important are religion, student resources, and class size. Whether you choose to attend a religious university or not, feeling comfortable with your religion on campus is important. If a student cannot feel comfortable on campus because of his or her faith, it could hinder the student's ability to perform to his or her best. A campus without sufficient student resources can make college life difficult. The campus should have a tutoring center, a career or job center, a financial aid office, a health center, and a campus security office. These help a student succeed in academics, finances, health, and safety. Lastly, class size can affect academic success. Whether the student prefers large lecture-style classes, or intimate discussions, the experience. If the class size is too large, a student's achievement may be hindered due to lack of individual assistance. No matter where you choose to go, consider all the student's interests before selecting the university, or the student may have a discouraging college experience.
Alicia
when choosing a college, be sure to visit the campus. For me, after hearing about APU i was very enthused and knew it was a school I should consider, but I also felt that way about other schools. The thing that made the decision for me was when I visited the campus (along with many other campuses in the same weekend). I knew instantly APU was a place where I fit; I felt at home. this is very important when choosing a college, beacause it will essentially be where you will be living for the next four years, and you want it to be a place where you can both have fun and be comfortable. As far as making the most of your college experience, take advantage of the opportunity to meet new people and have fun, but remember your own needs and make sure you are taking care of yourself. Sometimes it is best to stay home and study or rest rather than go out, if you have been going out every night that week. Also, in the academic sense, get involved in your major. Get to know your professors and show a good work ethic.
Belen
If at all possible visit the college, it makes a huge difference. For myself, I struggled my first semester on a pre-dominantly Caucasian campus. For the first time I was no longer the majority race and my minority status finally became a reality for me. I did not know it would affect me so much. Experience the campus, sit in on a class, go to a basketball game and most importantly see what resources the school offers in the case that your student is struggling to fit in. My university provides counseling sessions in the psychologists office, we have a number of part-time pastors on top of our three full time campus pastors ready to assist, we have a variety of social/ethnic organizations to get involved in, and a mentoring program for students. By getting plugged in to these resources early it will make it easier in selecting the right college.
Jennifer
You can not just look at one particular aspect of a school. You need to look at the school as a whole. I was recruited by this school, and I didn't exactly choose it but Azusa Pacific is the best school I have been to. Besides looking at just the academics of a school you need to focus on the type of community you desire living in. Azusa has a great sense of community, like a huge family. I went to Sonoma State and there was no sense of community just drinking and a small school feel. So I just recommend looking at many aspects of a school and visiting it so you can feel whether it is a right fit. I truly think that you can get a great feel by visiting a school. If you do not like the school always remember you can transfer so just go with your gut.
Allison
When deciding where to go for college, just let the kids decide. They know what is best for themselves. If they want to go to the private Christian college rather than the state school for free, then let them do it. It is their choice and they know themselves teh best. Thats what my parents did for me and my sister and we could not be happier at our choices.
Neille
it is important to really think of all the areas a student is looking at a college for. there is a perfect college for everyone depending on location, size, religious affiliation (or lack there of) political worldview, extra cirricular activities, and more. It is important as the student to pick his/her own college and not base their choice on their parents or family expectatons. College is a personal decision that should suit a student for 4 years, and they should find what they want, not their parents. for so long i wanted a school, but realized there were other plans for me and then I found Azusa. Keep your options open. Realize what kind of money you have for a school and make sure their Fnancial opotunities apply to you before deciding to go there. If you love a school make sure all areas are to your liking. Allow yourself to become excited about a school. It is ok to do! School spirit is so important. Make your four years count. Make a difference in your community and in the world. Get involved. Love on others and that love will fall back on you. Work hard but have fun!
Ryan
Find a college that you enjoy being at, has the programs you want and can suit your best interests. Visit the school, talk to the teachers and students because they can give you the best perspective. Do no settle for something less than what you want, aim high and if you really want to go somewhere do what it takes to get there.
Ashkon
Know whether you want to go to a Christian school or not. That is huge. Otherwise, know what environment best suits you.
Kaitlyn
Visit the college and talk to the department to which you're major is in and talk to students that attend the school.