Boston College Top Questions

Visit each college and pay close attention to the information sessions run by students. There will be a "typical" student that goes to each school, no matter how diverse the college or university. Go to the school that matches most accurately your personality to that "typical" student. Or at least consider that you may become more like that "typical" student during your four years at the school, so choose a college in which you respect and would not mind being like the type of students that are alumnae from that school. And good luck! Remember that it is supposed to be a fun process, and trust your instincts!

I think I would advise parents and students to focus on finding a college that is a good fit for the student, and not necessarily focusing only on college rankings and selectivity. Many parents and students get too caught up in school rankings, but in the end it is most important to be successful and comfortable at your college. I have also seen a lot of high school students participate in activities just because they think it will look good on their college application. It is more important to pursue your own interests and passions in high school rather than doing things just because they may impress an admissions committee. Once you are in college: be yourself. Do not change who you are to fit in with a certain group of people. Interesting and worthwhile people are those who appreciate you for who you are. Broaden your horizons! Try new things, college is a wonderful opportunity to experiment with potential interests. Do not be afraid to approach people and go into things alone. Remember that in the first year everyone is looking to meet new friends. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet a diverse group of people.

Presumably most people would advise attending the school from which one receives "the feeling." Yes, if you are one of the lucky few to have "the feeling" go for it. But for the rest of us "the feeling" is merely an ever elusive wonder. My decision process was quite arduous, as I came down to two terribly similar schools. In pursuit of "the feeling," I resorted to ridiculous practices like trying on each school's t-shirt, hoping one's billowing fit would in some way illuminate my college choice. My efforts proved to be futile and I was left utterly confused. So, I instead began to examine a different sort of fit ? how did I perceive myself to fit into this school? Such a question can only be answered by visiting perspective schools, participate in tours and information sessions, but most importantly meander through the grounds and try to picture yourself at the school. Once enrolled my advice is simple: get involved! Find something you are passionate about and pursue that interest. Challenge your high school perspective and formulate beliefs that are uniquely your own - rooted in self examination and experience. Carpe diem! Four years go by awfully fast.

Find a college that when you walk onto the campus and look around, you just know that this is the place for you. It's like meeting a best friend. There may be things you don't like or could be better, but at the end of the day, the college you choose should be one where you can be yourself and will guide you as you become the person you are meant to be.

do wats best

Focus less on the academics and more about the students, the people, the environment because that will effect your child's learning experience more than anything else.

Do your research. Try to find a school that really makes sense for you. Remember that things will change, and it is up to you to make the best of that.

I would advise them to choose the school that they feel most comfortable at when they visit . If you arrive on campus and feel at home at once, that's the school for you. When I went to BC for the first time, I fell in love. You need to find a school that balances academic work with your social life. BC is a challenging school, and I spend A LOT of time doing work... But, I have a great social life and go out every weekend with my friends.

VISIT and go OUT and see what the people are like.

be very open-minded and flexible