California State University-Long Beach Top Questions

Don't think too much about how much of a 'name' the school has, but instead focus on which school offers the best programs for the major intended and the best learning and living environment for the student. Also, think outside of the campus and do consider what the student might do on their free time off-campus. If they like the beach, don't send them off to Northwestern or something like that. College is more stressful than anything most students have faced in their lives so far, so being in the right environment helps relieve that stress. And that's good because stress is a college student's #1 enemy. Also, please don't think that after getting into whatever college you applied for, you can just get by doing the minimum required since there isn't anything else you have to apply and get into anymore (unless you are going to a grad school). The stuff you learn in these classes are valuable, and will make a great conversation starter at the least. Make friends and treat them well, for they will be a great help later on at school and out.

Do not blindly accept a college or university's admission based soley on how they look on paper. The most important aspect of where you will attend school is judging how it fits when you actually set foot on the campus. If you have the means, visit each campus your are accepted to a few times and choose which feels the most right for you. When I stepped onto the campus of the university I attend, I knew immediately that it was right for me! When you visit, do not be afraid to talk to students and available faculty. Ask them the questions you are dying to know about campus life. This will help you to make a more informed decision for your future!

Have an idea of what major you're interested in and narrow down your choices by rank, student body, location, and cost. Although cost may be a big factor, education is truly priceless so don't skimp out!

This school is open to lots of diversity. Many opportunities are offerred to its students. It is a fun loving environment with lots of school spirit and welcoming faculty, staff, and students.

I would advise students to actually step out and explore everything. This can be to making new friends from different places and social backgrounds and also to explore everything they have been curious about. I would also advise students not to worry too much about the future and have fun, but on the other hand stay on track with school courses and obtain those good grades. To those who are straight A's students in high school, do not stress out if you do not see the same result in high school because although academics is very important, college is a time to discover yourself and grow emotionally, spiritually and most importantly as an individual. Another advice to students is to try to step out of his or her comfort zone and study abroad. There have been many alumnis that have given me the same advise and I'm actually doing it. It is always nice to experience new environment and new cultures. Sometimes it may make a person more focused when they come back home because they will be given a chance to reflect and compare and contrast two environments. I definitely advise obtaining many beneficial experiences!

Go see as many schools as you can before you make your decision and start about your sophomore year so you can plan accordingly to be accepted.

When deciding on which undergraduate institution to attend, just keep in mind that only modest emphasis should be placed on rank or prestige. The preliminary factors should be an environment conducive to learning and somewhere the student feels comfortable making their own contributions to the campus and surrounding community.

DO YOUR RESEARCH. Not just online and in brochures. EVERY college will try to make it seem like it is the best for you. Go to the college and talk to the students in your field. See how they are doing, what they think of the programs(s) and most important, how will the college prepare you for YOUR career! Thanks!

Find a college that resonates with who you are and what you want to become. Look at the programs they have to offer--especially concerning the major that you're thinking of entering. Take into consideration safety, availability of housing, faculty, etc. Try and talk to others who have been or are going to the colleges you're looking at, and get their perspective of it. Try e-mailing the faculty of the college and ask them questions. Visit the college campuses and take tours--that's what really made a difference in my decision. Also, tell yourself that once you get into college, you won't be afraid to get involved. This is crucial for making the most of your experience. Don't be afraid to be the outspoken, enthusiastic one. It makes college much more fun and rewarding! If you see a program that you really want to do, go for it. Do whatever it takes to make it work. Know that sometimes, you're going to work harder than you've ever worked before, but you will have amazing experiences if you go for what you want.

My best advice would be to choose the college/university that you feel more comfortable with. If you don't feel comfortable or at home on your campus, you will hate it. If you're like me, you'll be spending most of your time there, and you need to love it. Parents: let them have some free range to enjoy it. The best part of a college experience is being able to find out who you really are and what you love.Let your kids find that out for themselves - you can always be there for them, but remember: this is their time. Students: STUDY STUDY STUDY! The first year will seem like a breeze and you'll think, "This is so easy, what did I ever worry about?" And then your upper division classes start coming and it's a whole different story. If you don't prepare and make good study habits from the beginning, everything will fall apart as time goes by! Social life is always extremely important, but if your grades fall, everything else will follow. Know what you want and go for it, and remember: college is the best time of your life!