Hampton University Top Questions

To parents i would say that its best to try and not to limit your children too much. Having a set affordability is reasonable but when it comes to other aspects of college life such as in state and out of state schooling; as well public or private schooling, its best to give input but in the end make sure your children make the decision thats best for them and not just you. To students, be sure to discuss all of your interest with your parents and dont be afraid to start searching and deciding early. The earlier you start the better. Be sure to weigh all the pro's and con's of the schools your most interested in and visit as many campuses as you possibly can so that you can get a feel for the atmospheres. Also dont be afraid to talk to your school counselors about your interests because they can be helpful when it comes to filling out college applications and finding grants and scholarships that you may be eligible for.

I would advise any students to think realistically about whether their parents can afford the school of their choice. I have a lot of friends who were forced to transfer because they realized that their family could no longer foot the bill of college. Also, parents should stay on top of finances and other important deadlines at school.Mail often gets delivered late at schools so expecting the students to handle parental business is unfair

The best advice I could provide for families seeking to choose the right university is to be compromising and opportunistic. When I first set out to choose a University for Fall 2007, I had four schools to pick from and my number one school was way out of the price range for my family. The school I am at now was my second choice and the last two my mother-- not I; had her heart set on. Ultimately now I love my school but before making any final decisions, I talked constantly with upperclassmen at both schools with my intended major using various social networks and visiting the campuses personally. When choosing the right school, know exactly what you are getting into academically, socially, and financially. For students that aren't the best academically, choose a school with smaller classes and accessible facilities to get the help you need. If you are a people person, be sure that the campus is diverse and there are activities that interest you. Be confident about who you are and know that if your current situation isn't the ideal one be willing to make the best of it. I know I have.

Know how to balance your class schedule with your social life. The biggest mistake that I see my fellow students make is to party too much.

Look at everything you want in a university. Academically, sportswise, socially; If you're looking for Greek Life, make sure they have it. Make sure that the campus is in a place that you are comfortable with. Take into account distance and ability to return home for emergencies. ALWAYS VISIT the campus if at all possible. If not, do virtual tours. But visiting the campus itself gives a different feeling than simply touring online. You don't want to realize as a freshman that this school is not right for you, and have to transfer. Make the right decision the first time.

You should most definitely take a visit to the schools you are applying to before you make your final decision. Look at the campus and student body. Is it too big or too small? Look at the classroom size. Is that too big or too small. Then talk to some of the students about the school. Look into the extra curricular activities and sports. Ask about religious affiliations if you are religious. Take a look at the dorms and other on campus housing. Check out the cafeteria and the meal plan options. Can you see yourself eating that everyday? If you drive find out about student parking. If you don't drive find out what kind of public transportation is available. Tour the surrounding neighborhood for drug stores, banks, shopping, etc. Most importantly ask about the carrer development opportunities that are available.

If I had to give advice to parents whose children are attending college and/or teens who are graduating high school, I would tell them to to start the application process early. Make sure theat you have many references from their teachers and that they apply to at least five different schools just in case they do not get accepted to their first choice. I would also tell the student that they should register early for the classes that they want to be in for the fall semester. Classes fill up very fast and if you want your choice in days/times register as soon as possible. Lastly,I wouls suggest always staying on top of their work. It is too hard to play catch up during the school year.

When applying to colleges make sure to addvocate a ligitimate amount of research about the schools being considered. If a student is aware of the major they want to take part in; research to find out how well the program is, as compared to other schools. Learn about the campus life so you can have a good college experience.; all work and no play is never a good idea. Make sure activities that you're interested in are offered at the school. Determine the cost and try to get the best tution prices. If you are interested in any sports or band learn about the organization and see if they can offer you anything, such as payed tuition. The most important thing is to make sure you pick a school that will prepare you best for internships, jobs, and careers. With all these things in mind you are sure to end up at the right school, even if its not your first choice.

For parents make sure you can afford the college your child wants to go to. Also parents make sure you visit the college your child want to attend. Its important you are comfortable with the school. Students make sure you fully research your school. Make sure your school has everything your looking for academically and socially. When it comes to your major, alot of student change it more than once, that is common. You may change your mind just be sure to keep up with your credits and courses. College is a wonderfully experiance enjoy it!!!!!!

Find a school that you feel comfortable with that will offer a good career based life for the students and parents.