Will
There are many things that can aid you in finding the college that is right for you. The most important in my decision making was visiting the schools that were highest on my list. You can learn a lot about a school by simply walking around its campus. Secondly, talk with the professors in your field. Thirdly, I would also recommend talking with students in the majors that interest you. Talking with professor about majors can be very helpful, but students will give you the honest truth of what being a student in that field is really like. Finally, I would recommend looking at the rate of employment of students graduating in your intended major. The school may have a fantastic program, but if they won't help you secure a job after graduation you may want to look elsewhere. As for making the most out of your college experience, my advice is fairly simple: major in something that interests you, always give your personal best, and don't neglect your social life. Without friends, college is unbearable! I hope my advice is helpful, and good luck finding the right school for you!
Jennifer
Prospective college students and their parents should examine the academics, athletics, and campus in order to determine if it is the right college. For instance, if a potential student wants to major in biology for pre-med, then the student should see if the college has the right curriculum to obtain this major. Also the parents and student should see the campus before deciding if this is the right college. By actually seeing the campus it helps visualize the atmosphere and environment in which the student may live in. In additon it helps the student and parents get aquainted with professors and college students on campus. Furthermore, in order to make the most at the college of your choice, the student should get involved. Overall, this involvement on campus will allow new students to make friendships and have other activities besides classes.
Kristin
Students : Choose the school that best fits you- not your friends, girlfriend, or parent's choice. Don't have extremely high expectations- remember every school has good things and bad things- you need to choose the circumstances you want to deal with.
Parents: let your child choose. Help guide, but ultimately this is the student's choice. They are a big kid now. You had your chance to shape them- let them make their own mistakes. Don't be a 'hellicopter parent' - don't hover. Love but let go.
Jaclyn
Parents, you can not force your child to attend any place other than what they want, unless its for financial reason, they will resent you, the school, and the classes. In the long run you will waste money and trasfer. Students - beprepared to be independt, to make smart choices, and self-disciplined. without this, it will be difficult to transition from a teen to an adult. There wont be anyone to clean up your spilt milk any more., and even mom or dad tries, the school wont care. they will hold you responsible. Most of all, have fun!
Stacey
A lot of kids think its cool to go somewhere far far away from home. Being far away is overated, and if there is a school that fits your type in a neighboring town, apply! I know a bunch of kids who moved far away and the following semester were back at home, missing their family and friends.
Sheina
College can be a very scary thing for a lot of incoming freshman, but it's really not as bad as it seems. College is a very exciting time for students and this is their opportunity to find themselves and make friends that will last a lifetime. College is much worth the experience and will help you find a job when you are finished with your degree.
Carmen
If you are considering attending this college I would recomend that you know what you are getting into. This is a Christian College, that stresses community big time. They have you attend chapel, which is a good thing, because it allows you to know what is going on around campus. I am glad that I chose to go to college here, I could not see myself going to anyother school! I absolutly love it here. The professors are amazing, and are always willing to help you throughout anything. I thank God everyday for guiding me to this wonderful school.
Sarah
Make sure you thoroughly know your selected colleges. All schools have a show face and will hide some things to attract students. Make sure you know what these aspects are and how important they are to you. For example, some of these things could be financial aid, social life, or program quality. Take full advantage of your visit to the college. Eat some meals in the union, stay the night in a dorm room, talk to professors, check out the town, sit in on some classes, and visit the career center. Talk with other students besides ambassadors during your campus visit, especially those that are your major or in classes you will have to take. Find out as much as you can about the school's career reputation and discover how their students rate in job recruitment. Inquire about, or better yet, observe the availabe learning equipment in action. Make multiple trips to the campus and talk to multiple people a multiple of times. Find out all you can about your prospective schools. Then and only then will you be equipped to make the decision that is best for you.
Anna
My advice to parents is to try and stay actively involved in your child's college search: talk with them about what areas they're interested in, what schools they're considering, and what their worries/concerns may be. Nevertheless, try not to enforce your own desires on them (i.e. to attend your alma mater, to become a particular profession, to stay close to home, etc.). The most important thing you can give your child at this time is the encouragement that anything is possible, to encourage them to dream big and not make excuses to shy away from what they really want to do.
Students, be empathetic toward your parents' desires/concerns, especially concerning finances: your parents sacrifice a lot to send you to college; honor that by applying for as many scholarships as possible. It'll benefit everyone financially having fewer loans to pay. To make the most of your college experience, know that there are two equal sides: academics and experience. There's something important to be learned in every class you take. Branch out, take diverse courses, be open to the fact that you may not end up in the same field you started in.
Elisabeth
Academically, a lot of schools are more alike than you'd think. Make sure you find somewhere where you will be HAPPY.