Tyler
The heart of a school is the students and professors. It may be a good idea to make a list of possible activies your son or daughter may attend while in school. While looking each college try to talk to students and faculty in these areas. Colleges are busy places, but the chances are good that you will be able to speak to people in these areas long enough to determine if you can see if you can see your child spending time with these students and staff. People affilated with the college tend to be more approachable by prospective students than one may initally think .
Marissa
Make sure you look at a variety of schools, and pick what feels right for you. Lots of students are pressured to pick the school their parents tell them to, but it really comes down to what you want to do. But don't worry too much about it, because I think that people can fit in at a variety of schools. Either way you're going to make friends and have a good time!
Megan
I would advise parents and/or students that choosing a college which has a comfortable learning atmosphere is the most important quality in a school.
Madeline
My advice would be to look around. Even if you think you have the best college in mind--visit, tour, talk to the students, and weigh your options. If the college ever seems to be not what you were expecting, figure out why. I ended up going to one of the most expensive schools in my state because I thought it would have what I needed to start my life off right. What I got, aside from some lasting friendships with professors, was really no help from the administration in the field I was studying. Also, no matter what you're studying, always try to take time to go abroad. It doesn't matter where you go--you should go with the motivation to see some other form of life. That doesn't mean to just go and drink the entire trip. Go to see new places, places that may disappear one day, places that you'll never see again! Make the most of your college years, no matter where you go.
Tom
Do not settle for anything but rather experience college and take your time as major changes with life come around.
Victoria
The right college should be the student's choice because they have to live with it for the next few years. We change our minds too; this is supposed to be the time when we are finding ourselves. Therefore, changing colleges shouldn't be a huge issue. Wherever you end up going, just have fun, relax, and study. You can't get that job without some work, but you can't stress over one midterm. In the end, you'll remember the people you met and the things you did, more than one grade. But remember, it's the grade that gets you to the end.
Natalie
Through my experience, I would advise parents and students to make sure the college is right for them. Is the college socially and academically what you are looking for? Are you able to pay for it? In order to really make it count, take the time out and really look. You would really be surprised what is out there. Talk to your high school counselors and see what they know. Make sure you take multiple tours of the school to ensure different perspectives from the students. Do not be afraid to ask questions- this will ultimately benefit you in the end. Spend the night at the campus and go to a class that is in the interest of your field that you want to study. If you are undecided, then go to a general education class that all freshman need to take. I cannot stress enough to really look- do not wait for the schools to come to you- and do not wait until the last minute. LEARN FROM MY MISTAKE!!!
Brooke
When finding a school just right for you or your child. It is important to look at the class sizes and the location of the school. When I picked my college, I did not want to sit in a lecture hall and learn that way, instead I wanted the smaller class sizes in order to fulfill my learning potential. Also I would look at the school size in general and what times they actually offer classes. Also I went to the informational meetings about the college, where we got to know advisors and some of the faculty before we actually got to the school. If you get the chance to meet with people before going there, that is one huge opportunity to getting to know the college and what they are all about.l
Amanda
You really need to tour the college before you agree to attend. If you do not take a tour of the school you might not be satisfied with your choice.
William
For a high school graduate, picking a college is like picking your future to some extent. College is a place that you will make new friends, take classes that pertain to your career plan, and make the life you want for yourself. Choosing the right college makes this experience a very good one, which is why this decision is of such great importance. The best way of finding the perfect place is to narrow down a list of desired schools and apply to them. When you get accepted to these schools, go to them, visit the campus, take tours, and spend time there. There is no rush in this process as this is a very important decision thats being made. Once you find that school that fits you best, go there and enjoy it. Don't get to worked up and stressed from work, but don't slack off either. Work hard to get good grades, and then treat yourself by going out for the night. Just remember, these are the best years of your life, so enjoy these years to the fullest.