Gail
Visit the school and weigh out the benefits and consequences of choosing one school over another very carefully. Do not settle, and do not choose a school close to home simply because it is comfortable. Be open to making new friends, do not be shy, and do your best to have fun in the midst of school work.
Dawn
My advice would be to look thoroughly into the small schools. Particularly if the student is from a small town. College can be very intimidating. I also suggest that the parents and academic advisors encourage students to choose from several elective courses. Especially if they are not 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} about their major. Often times, students feel "locked in" to an academic program and are curious about other career alternatives.
Lara
Go to a college with a nice campus; it will really help when you're struggling with alot of work and you can just look out your window at something beautiful
Lindsey
When looking for the right college, GO VISIT and if they have a program where you can take some classes and spend the night on campus with a current student, DO IT!! This is going to be your home for the next four years, it needs to feel that way. Once on campus, immediately GET INVOLVED!! Know the profs and administrators. The little things you do on and off campus (in the community) well help you to define who you are and make your college experience more enjoyable. Friends will be there, the parties will be there, but extra curricular opportunities can get snatched up if you don't go after those.
Derek
Visit the colleges and talk to the students!
Kevin
Look around. Find the one that connects best with the applicant and makes them feel wanted. After that get involved.
Josh
Always visit the school. Talk to students and faculty while you visit. Always see the living arrangements and check out the sports, it is a great way to get involved with the school and to meet people. Always go to class and talk to your professors while you are there. Have fun while you are attending college.
Jessica
Make sure that you spend a day or two at prospective colleges as a part of the college community. I highly recommend spending the night with a current student in order to get a better feel for the college commnity. Also, sit in on some classes that may interest you, ask students and faculty as many questions as possible so that you can be as informed as possible when it finally comes to deciding where you want to go.
Brian
Be sure to visit the institutions you plan to attend and speak with actual students who are not biased or working for the institution. Make responsible financial decisions, but remember, a few thousand extra a year is worth it if it means you'll be happier and have much better career oppurtunities upon graduation. Make a list of everything that you want or expect out of your college experience and compare it to all your potential schools.
Vanessa
Visit the college prior to accepting admittance to be certain that the college has the right feel. Be open-minded but don't compromise your needs and wants. Look for an institution that will challenge your student and will support change and growth.