Rebecca
I would advise anyone looking for "that right" college to go visit the campus, spend the night, and go sit in on a few classes that may be in your major. Find the school that fits you, don't settle for something that you dont want! As far as making the most of your college experience, do what you are supposed to for school and make time for friends. Learn to prioritize, friends will still be there when the paper, project, etc is done, if not; they aren't real friends anyway! Good Luck on the journey!
Lea
GO VISIT THE CAPUS!!!!!!!!! For the longest time I thought I wanted to go to a big state school! But I really didn't like them once I visited! Everything was too big! Then when I visited GWU I fell in love with it! The capus is gorgeous and the people are so friendly! Everyone knows everyone! It's such a great community!
Hyatt
The most important thing that needs to be considered is the type of person you are. By this I mean that if you don't like cities, don't attend a university in a city. It is better to be at a school you like and with the people you tend to like so that friendships can develop. The best university for what you want to do may not be the best university for you and it is important to find the right fit.
With that said, you also need to ensure that the university you choose will open you up to diversity. I firmly believe it is important to meet people who are different than you and bring different life experiences to the table so that you can learn from them. It is also important that you avoid a party school, you are at school to learn and are paying to attend so make use of it. If you can do these three simple things your college experience will be rich and full of learning.
Tyler
I feel that choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a person will ever make in their life. It is vital for parents and students to have a clear and true understanding of the college they, or their child, will be attending. In finding the right college visiting and talking with current students is so important. It is crucial to have a feel for what the campus community is like, how the students interact, the ways the faculty teach and mentor and the overall attitude of all on campus. The college experience must be enjoyed above anything else. Making lifelong friends, creating unforgettable memories, learning important lessons about oneself and the world around them and having fun are the best way to make the most of the college experience! You have to let go of your inhibitions, make yourself vulnerable at times, stick to your convictions, challenge what you believe in, and be willing to understand and learn about those around you and how you fit into this world.
Laura
I would encourage students to look for a college that not only meets their expectations (major, sports, religious affiliation, etc.) but that also provides a new experience. Our college years are our only opportunity to travel, meet new people, and experience new things before we are tied down by the responsibilites we'll accept once we graduate. I would ask parents to encourage their son or daughter and let them know that they are loved. Make them aware of your support and your trust in their decisions. In turn, I encourage those entering into college to use this time to get to know your parents better, but this time on a different level. Reassure them that although you're on your own and away from home, you still respect and love them.
For some, entering into college can be terrifying; for others it's an adventure. Remember to be bold, keep an eye out for new experiences, know what your convictions are, and be yourself.
Hannah
Applying for college can be one of the most stressful times for parents and students. The important things to look at are your interests for the future. Does this college have a strong program in your intended field of study? Also, class size is important. Are you looking for a larger college with lecture halls or a small classroom with a more personal environment? Things like social activities are worth researching. Is there alcohol and tobacco allowed on campus? Are intramurals and clubs the right ones for me? Depending on which college campus you choose could depend on the person you become. You need a college that fits you in class size, major and religious beliefs. The environment that is available has great influence in your life. Choose to surround yourself with a positive environment.
Lauren
My advice is that most students know when they get on the campus, that this is the right campus for them. When I stepped on GWU's Campus I knew this is where I wanted to go here. Also, try to pick a school with a good academic background. If you are worried about fraternites and Sororities don't be. those can help your son/daughter make more friends. But you shouldn't have to join one they can make friends another way, and trust me they will make friends.
Melissa
I would like to advise parents and/or students to pray and ask God where it is you should go. That is what I did and though I am now complaining about the incredible amount of money I have to spend to go here, I know He will provide for me, weather it be this scholarship or something else. God, ultimately, knows where all of us need to be in order to thrive as His creation. I am perfectly aware that not all people believe in God the way I do and that is sad because He loves you and I so much and He wants to show us His plan for our lives, we just need to allow Him to. The way I described it to my niece is: God is perfect. But everyone else has good and bad in them. The closer you get to God, the smaller the bad in you gets and the bigger the goodness gets. If we can just allow God to bring out all of the good in our lives, we would stress less about making the wrong choice. So I advise parents and/or students to look to God for decision making.
Jonathan
Gardner-Webb is one of the best values in the country when looking at a private christian school. The atmosphere is friendly and conservative, while being loose enough for each student to open up and truely find themselves. There doesn't exist an institution more friendly or focused on a student's advancment in the long-run.
As far as finances go, the University offers a variety of competitive scholarships and makes you aware of grants available; on top of this the campus offers work-study programs at different places on campus as well as opportunity to work for the university in admissions, technical, and maintnance positions.
The environment surround the campus is the embodiment of the rural Carolinas, about an hour from the mountains, located on the Broad river. There is a lot of opportunity for camping, rock climbing, and other out-door activities.
On top of all of these luring aspects, the University has 21 varsity D1 athletics and students get in all events free. Last year ESPN came and covered one of our upsets, and our team contested for conference titles in basketball and football.
Lacey
Go to the college that fits you best, not neccesarily what is cheapest, but the one where you would be the happiest.