Capital University Top Questions

I would suggest that parents and students research online, but more importantly go to the schools they are interested in. Don't just take the tour, try to find helpful students to REALLY show you around and tell you about their experiences. Ask if you can be their facebook or myspace friends, to look at their pictures and experiences from college. Definitely take advantage of the overnight visits if available, and be sure to talk to a loan councelor to be sure that you won't be up to your head in debt by the time you graduate. Once you get to college, take every opportunity that comes your way. Keep up on your studies, because it's all the more fun to relax on the weekends when you know you're excelling in your school work during the week. And try not to go home on the weekends, that's when your memories will be made! Last but not least, come to school with lots of Ramen Noodles- they will be your best friend.

Location is key!

If there is any doubt in your mind that you may not want to be too far away from home then listen to it. Remember, grades aren't the end of the world and don't let yourself get stuck in your own head. Get out, even if it's just by yourself.

My advice to students would be to remember that you get out of college whatever you decide to put into it. Since I am a commuter, I was told by many of my orientation leaders that it would be difficult to stay involved and get a great deal out of my studies. This turned out to be incorrect, for I decided from the very beginning to stay involved. Your attitude towards teh process will determine the quality of your college experience. To parents, I would suggest that you try to become involved and interested in your student's education. I have two wonderful parents who come to my drama performances and continually ask about my courses. This can be an interesting and valuable experience for you, as well.

Think about what you want to do with your life. College is such a great place to learn and grow but it also tough. It shows what you can handle. My main advice is to take tours of the campuses and see what fits. Do officall and unoffical visits to really see the spirit of the school and choose the one which fits you best. I know money is a big thing but you will be much happier at a school you like and have loans then one cheaper and not your style. College goes so fast, savor it.

Know yourself. Know what kind of people you enjoy being around, know your beliefs, know what you are interested in if you do not know what you would like to do with your life (and lets face it - most 17 year olds have no clue!). Pick a college that best fits you as an individual but at the same time one that will allow you room to grow. Ask how easy it is to switch majors; find out the beliefs of the school AND the beliefs of the students (they are not always the same). Spend a weekend or a night on campus with a host student to really get the feel of campus and of the kind of people that go to that school. Lastly, take advice from others but do not let anyone pressure you into a decision. This is where you will live and grow as an individual for the next 2-4 years: it is YOUR decision!

Come with an open mind and make the most out of all situations! Dont be afraid to be yourself!

Find a college that you will feel comfortable in. Make sure that the school is right for the student that is attending, not for the parent. Go to college to learn. Make that a priority. Do not go to party. You will not get anywhere if you spend your whole time partying and not learning. The end result will certainly be worth it if you stick with your studies. College life can sure be fun if you learn to juggle everything. Stressing out does not help, but there is always help that is available on the campus. Having parents that are understanding about everything sure helps. Students will have to be mature enough to handle things on their own, but every now and then having parents to fall back on for advice just makes it so much easier.

If I can give parents and students some advice on finding the right college, I would tell them to research every school very well. Take visits to the school, and talk to other students that aren't necessarily your tour guide and ask them questions and ask them to be honest. Students that aren't tour guides are more likely to tell you the truth about things and not "suger-coat" the schools issues. Every school will have it's problems, but sort out which things are important to you (size, academics, local area, etc) and base your decision on how well the school fits with what you are looking for in a college. There is a school that will be right for each individual person, you just have to look hard to make sure you've found it.

Visit the colleges of interest before making your choice, and make sure to consider the school's size.