Alicia
My best advice to give to parents and students, after attending and graduating from a four-year university, is to think logically rather than emotionally about the schools being applied to. Of course, while I was searching for schools to attend as a junior in high school, all I wanted was a safe distance from my family, a school that would put a lot of space between my parents and I. That was entirely an emotional, angst-filled choice, and I wish I had been more logical in my search for schools. I also allowed my lower-middle class upbringing sour my decision making, opting for the fancier, more expensive, private schools rather than the more affordable public ones. Both aspects were heaviliy affected by my emotions, leading to a rash decision to move to a pricey, private college 800 miles away. I was usually homesick and bitter about the long trek home for breaks, something I didn't think about when searching for schools. Don't let emotions carry you away in college either! College is a time for maturity, a time to learn about controlling emotions so they won't bring one down in the "real world".
charles
Go to many different colleges and tour them. Talk to people while on campus and ask their opinions.
McCall
I would make sure you get a good vibe from the school. Most schools you pay thousands of dollars just for the name, and school is what you make of it! Make sure the school fits your lifestyle and personality because in the end, happiness is what determines academic success.
In making the most of your college experience make sure to GET INVOLVED!! This is the best way to meet new people, and a great way to build the foundation of your resume.
Desiree
With hundreds of different colleges available for students to choose from, choosing only a few colleges to apply to can be grueling work--requiring research and time. As a current college student who was in the same shoes as many high school students looking to go to college, I endeavored to develop a strategy that would facilitate the college decision process. First I started by determining where I wanted to study. Warm weather or cold weather? Did I want to be in a city, near a city, or in the middle of nowhere? How far away from home was acceptable? Once the possible region was selected, I focused on what schools posessed my education program of choice. Did they offer my intended major? What were the class sizes? What degrees did professors posess? Next, I narrowed my selection based on how large the school was. Ultimately, these questions helped me discover the right college.
As for the college experience, join many clubs and be active within the community, this will enable you to meet different people and truly enjoy your college experience. Just be sure not to lose focus on your academics and don't overwork yourself! Moderation is key!
Jessica
Picking the college that is right for you doesn't have to be hard. First you should have an idea of how far away from home you want to be and what region you want to go to school in. Get information on all the colleges that you're thinking about. Look for a major that you want, and look for other majors you're interested in, not all college students keep their original majors! narrow down your search to a few schools and apply! when you get a letter of acceptance, or even before that go visit the schools so you know how the campus feels. My own expierince when i walked onto my school campus i knew that that school was where i was ment to be. I believe that you'll know where you're supposed to be when you step onto the campus. once you find your school get involved! go out and meet people talk to people in your classes, or sit with a group in the cafe and make some friends. generally people are nice and would love to have you sit with them, they knew what it was like as a freshman.
Tara
Start early! My parents and I were a little delayed on the college search process, but luckily I found the right fit. Make sure the student gets that "feeling" after visiting the college. Have fun with it too! Visit as many as your budget will allow you too! It's a lot of fun to visit many campuses!
Antonio
you really want to research the school that you are going to. i myself did research online to get a basic knowledge of the school, and then i scheduled a time to go and visit the campus. once i visited, i went around the campus before my guided tour and explored it for myself. then i went on a tour where they talked more about the campus and allow you to ask further questions. after this visit, i then planned another visit for the sole purpose to go and ask questions about the financial aid possibilities as well as talking with future professors for the field i was going into. also, you may want to plan a trip to look at the extra curricular activities and meet with the individuals who are not going to be teaching your children, but will be with them on a more social level. all of these things i would recommend to anyone who is looking for a school to attend.
Casey
You aren't expected to know everything, do not get frustrated. Life is short and this is only a small piece of it. Learn the most you can and make the most of your education. The college should cater to you, you should feel like they really want you to be a part of their family and community. If they don't, keep browsing. Have a ball but be responsible. Your character is still under scrutiny even though your parents aren't there. good luck!!
Leah
It isn't just about location--it is about what the University or college has to offer your child. Is campus well-rounded? Students should get involved in as many activities as possible--this ensures they will meet many different types of people, and never be bored. Sometimes it is okay to pay a bit more for a quality experience and education. It will be worth it. Be involved! Call your child weekly, but also give them the independence they need. Good luck.
Julia
Make sure to visit the campus, meet professors, and to take the tours.