College of Charleston Top Questions

Make sure you pick your college for the right reasons

The College of Charleston is a great school for a person who is experienced living on their own and for the unepxerienced, first time out of the house person.

I would suggest they list all pros and cons about the colleges they are considering. If the student has an idea of their major I would research programs offered at each school. If the student will be receiving financial aid, I would encourage them to meet with the financial aid office early. They can assist you with questions and help locate aid. This is one thing a student does not want to stress over.

I think finding the right college is finding the right balance. Factors like size and course offerings are as important as campus layout and location, and preferences are all personal. From my experience, going to a college that is in a city was awesome because everywhere I want to go (except the beach) is just a walk away. I think it is important to go to a school where you can explore the campus/city either by yourself or with a date because it gives you additional options besides being forced to drink and party if you're not into that. I think the most important thing to remeber when attending college is why you are there in the first place. To me, college is like working on a cruise liner--it absolutely feels like vacation, and everywhere you look people are partying, but in the end, there is work to do. The most important thing to to realize that the many kids around you who are always going out are not making the grades they need to, and it's okay to turn down a party for work. It will happen again, I promise.

My most important advice would be to apply early, apply for all scholarships possible, and really visit all schools for more than a few hour visit so that you can make an informed descision and choose the BEST school for you. College is much more than you see on a campus tour. Choose wisely.

Your first choice decision doesn't have to set stone your entire college experience. It's okay to make a mistake on the first institution. It actually helps you as a person if the institution you set out for, does not work to your advantage. You will be surprised on what you will learn on different campuses. So always keep in mind, aside from college is what you make it, you will receive great lessons once you stay obedient and open minded to change. Happy searching, and happy higher learning.

I always tell prospective students when I show them the campus, "Keep your eyes and mind open when you're looking at colleges. Know what's important to you and seek that out every time you visit a school. You should be able to explain to someone why your first choice is your first choice. " That's the first step to getting the most out of a college experience: being somewhere that not only accomodates, but encourages you financially, personally, spiritually. Giving back, participating, in the community that provides all these things is a self-perpetuating circle of fulfillment.

Look at all your options, don't be afraid to go away from what makes you "comfortable." Also, throw yourself into any activity that catches your eye. Don't be afraid to go to the first meetings of clubs and organizations. You never know what will spark your interest or who you will meet.

College is what you make it! To find the right college for you, look at the diversity of social events/organizations, the city it is set in, the academic demands, and the cost. There is so much that one can learn in college- -not just in the classroom. Take the time to get to know the city you're in and to take full advantage of all that it has to offer. My city is known for the arts and history, so my friends and I frequently visit the ballet, the theaters, and the museums, take tours, and even have picnics in the historic gardens, all within 10-20 minutes walking distance of campus. Get involved on campus as well. There are clubs for everything, even if they simply haven't been started yet. There are also many ways of meeting new people and making a difference on campus, whether it is through Student Government, Residence Life, or Greek Life. Never settle for a college that will not challenge you as an individual, as it is the only way to grow.

The best advice f or incoming students: 1. Develope good relationships with your major department-you will eventually need references and letters of recommendation. 2. Don't make bad choices now that will affect your future-parties may be fun right now, but a high GPA and a degree will be with you forever, and vice versa! 3. Keep your mind open-you will learn a lot more if you are not constantly trying to disprove others. 4. Make time for yourself- it is important to decompress in a healthy way such as meditation, a jog through the park, or a matinee. 5. Remember, no matter how stressed you get, the situation will eventually be over. 6. Finally, plan for after graduation-it will be here sooner than you think!