Jarred
The first aspect that should be considered when choosing a college is definitely whether or not the college has at least three programs that one would be interested in taking. This allows for flexibility because undergraduates tend to change their majors within their first or second years. Secondly, when choosing a college one should make sure they know what size campus suits them the best. Too many of my friends have found that their colleges were either too large for them to handle, or too small for them to feel comfortable. As for making the most of your college experience, I have come to the conclusion that three "F's" need to be satisfied. No, not academic "F's," but friends, fun, and focus. Making friends in class is probably the most important aspect in college because it not only builds your social connections, but it makes things easier when you need notes or help for classes that you may miss for whatever reason. Following this is aspect is fun. You have to find ways to relax when you can to cut down on the stress of class. Lastly, is focus. Strong focus will bring you success in all things.
Elizabeth
First and foremost, visit the colleges. Do not let your dream of attending one university cloud your judgement on other schools. See if the colleges, you wishes to attend have program where you and your parents can spend the night on campus and see if the you will like the school. Apply for as much financial aid as possible. Once you have chosen a school , go to the orientation, look at all the clubs the school has to offer. Go to some club meetings and see if you would like to join. Rush even if you know that you do not want to join the Greek system because rushing is a wonderful way to meet people. Take advatage of talking to upper classman and get the inside knowledge on the professors. Do not be afraid to try new things but be careful and do not let yourself get carried away. College only happens once, so remember to have the time of your life and leanr many new things both inside and outside of the classroom.
Sarah
Choose a college where you know how hard you will need to study. Obviously you want a challenge, so choose a college that will superseed your normal studying habits and learning in highschool, but don't choose one like Tech, where it's almost way too much. College is a chance to meet people, make new connections, and learn new things. It's not about simply studying hard to get a job.
Jennifer
Visit the college. Once I came to campus, I fell in love with it and new that I HAD to come here. It's atmosphere fits me and my personality.
jessica
Deciding factors should be distance from home and cost of attendance. Do not go to the school that is ranked highest in some newspaper article. A good student can take advantage of programs and opportunities anywhere he or she chooses to go, but going to school is more difficult if the student misses family members and feels a financial burden too great. College is easier and more enjoyable if some forms of stress can be eliminated.
Bryan
Visit the school and make a judgement on how the area makes you feel. Nothing can change a mood faster than walking outside and just being happy to be there. It has helped me a lot of times.
Kristin
Firstly, the student will have the most successful college career if they know what they want to do before they start college. I chose to go to an engineering school, but then I decided that I wanted to major in history. My school only had a small program for history, and it did not have the resources or prestige that would have come with attending a liberal arts school. If you're unsure about what you want with your future, be sure to choose a school that will give you options. A school with an equal focus on the sciences and liberal arts would be best for undecided students. Also, be sure to consider location. If you're more comfortable in the city or in a small town, choose a school accordingly. If you want to be close to your parents, think about that too. Choosing a school is a personal thing. Be sure to consider other things that are important to you, and compare all of the schools you're thinking about attending. I found that making a chart really helped me compare schools. Lastly, don't underestimate your gut instincts!
Patrick
Don't worry about the prestige of your collegiate options, or about how great the sports program is or whether you'll be close to all your friends. Instead, take a trip to the campuses of your favorite colleges and choose the one that fits your personality the best. If possible, speak to some students there, get to know what really goes on instead of mindlessly believing the propoganda provided by the college. This decision may be one of the most important decisions in your life. It can determine your future career, economic class, and even interpersonal relationships. You probably only get one shot at this life, so choose the atmosphere that fits you and you will succeed.
KaNisa
Take advantage of every opportunity while you're in college. Sign up for the clubs, study abroad, do it all! Once you graduate, you'll wish you had done more.