Baker University Top Questions

The first piece of advice I would give parents and students is to never disregard a school because you have your mind set on another one. There is always a chance you won't get accepted into the school you have your mind set on and you may just find a school that you like better and fits your needs to a greater extent. College is about finding the proper balance between education and social skills. It is important to never forget the true reason you are attending school, to get an education that will take you places. However, it is also important to be social, the social connections and skills that you make in college are the ones that will help you get to the places you wish to go. Be open to a change in majors and career options. If a major doesn't work out, don't be affraid to say you like another major more because it will lead you to what you will be doing for the rest of your life. There is nothing wrong will wanting to do something different.

Finding the right college is like clothes shopping. Sometimes less is more. Pink ribbons and white stripes on a red shirt might be too much, similar to lecture halls with hundreds of kids. However, possibly you might just need the right shoes to go with them, Such as, a stellar career program that may make the lecture hall not so bad. Sometimes an outfit needs accessories, so make sure you look into the clubs and organization to see if there is something that might look good with the rest of your outfit. Make sure the clothes fit perfectly one size too small or one size too big might alter the essence of the outfit. Do not be afraid to try something new it might flatter you. Try actually going to the college just as you would go to the store. Catalogs do not justify the college and there is always room for error if you do not actually see it. Be patient. Do not be so anxious to buy or choose one particular outfit, you might miss a better deal. In the end, it is all about how confident you feel in the outfit or the school.

I would say to follow your heart. You know what kind of effort you are willing to put into a school's program. I know when I looked into Baker, I was happy to find a school that ballenced education and clean fun into one small setting. I know most of the people here, all my professors know me, they all expect excallence and work with you to achieve that. If at all possible, go visit the schools you want to think about attending. Pictures can be decieving sometimes or not show the full scope of the school (hint: your first dorm room won't be in the brochure!).

Make sure that you ask everyone about the experiences there. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions about diverity if you are not white, ask about Greek make up if you don't want to join a sorority or fraternity, ask about the school spirit if you are not an athlete. Stay a night or have lunch at the school to hang out with other freshman and sophomores to ask them about their experiences being at the school. Make sure you ask if its a party school if you don't like to drink. There are plenty of things that you don't think about and then you are stuck in a school for the next four years. Another bit of advice is if you don't like, leave if you need to!

For students, definitely go out on your own to explore your college options. I would definitely recommend finding your college based on your needs and desires in a college, rather than what your friends are doing. Remember the effort you put into your college experience, such as involvement in organizations and work ethic towards your academics is all an investment towards your future. For parents, research extensively into financial aid. The hidden costs, or the things you find out after your child enrolls tends to be overwhelming. But remember where there is a will there is a way to pay for college.

The advice I would give students is to explore all of your options. There are a lot of choices and you need to weigh out the pros and cons of each college or university that you are exploring. It is a really good idea to go to the college and spend some time on campus and see if it is the right fit. Once you have chosen a college, get involved. There are many activities and organizations that are fun and beneficial. Plus, when you are done with your homework, you will have something to do and have something to keep you out of trouble. To the parents, this is the time for your child to expand their horizons, so let them do that. It is ok to be involved with your child but now is the time to start letting go. Also, when filling out college applications and living arrangements, it is extremely important to let the student fill them out because the student is the one who will be going to the school and/or the dorm. Most importantly, support your child and their decisions, as they will have to start making their own.

My advice to students on how to find the right college is attend visit days at campuses everwhere!!! You will immidiately know which colllege is right for you just by attending weekend visits and activities. To make the most of the college experience i encourage students to try every activity. Even though you may not make the football team or get a role in the play, trying out for sports and committies is a great way to make new friends and meet new people.

Look for a place where you feel welcome and that encourages focus on learning as much as possible. Grades matter, but only to the extent of getting your degree. College should be for learning as much about the world around you; past, present, and the possible future and how you make an impact on that. Yes you will make friends at college, and you will also make friends all your life. The ones now matter as much as any other friend. College should be your step into becoming an adult, not a continuance of being a child. Work hard, play hard, rest hard. Learn any effective organizational skills as soon as possible, and stick with the ones that work best for you. DON'T PROCRASTINATE. Remember why you're at college everyday. Take care of yourself, if you need a mental health day, take one. Your sanity is important for successful living. But above all else remember that BALANCE IS KEY. The greek golden mean is the best way of success at college.

1. Find your strongest characteristic and/or skill and find an institution that has the resources to maximize it. 2. If you don't know what you want to do with your life, select a Liberal Arts institution to experience a variety of disciplines. 3. To speak financially - do not go if you do not plan to finish. 4. Don't be turned off by the cost of a certain institution. There are loans available. The right place for you may be costly. Learn debt management and go to the place that's right for you. 5. Meet everyone you can including faculty and staff. This will maximize your academic experience. 6. Find a place where you can be involved in various organizations to suit your tastes. This is enriching. 7. Enjoy it. College is the ideal lifestyle.