Kateleen
I believe that college is where you create the basis of learning for your life.
Jeff
I would recommend that parents and students see college as an opportunity to get away and to learn about the world through their experiences and book work. So many valuable lessons can be learned when mom or dad aren't at the students finger tips. I would suggest that the student have a field they wish to focus on but keep a very open mind towards other fields and topics. A good liberal arts school should require a variety of courses and the student should look at each course as a window into a potential future. If they find something that sparks their interest they should follow it a bit and see if they like where it leads. It is so often the case now that colleges and universities are seen as gateways into a career and future. Both students and parents should see it as that but also for what it truly is; It is a school and it is meant to be an opportunity to learn about everything. One can learn about the world, socializing, maintaing one's health, other cultures, living with a room-mate, about being independant, and finally about how interconnected our world truly is.
Michael
Make sure to visit the school beforehand and explore all aspects of education, housing, and financial aid.
Amanda
Environment is important. Many people might consider the quality of the campus secondary, but, if you think about it, school is going to be your second home. A drab, uninviting campus could really get you down. And vice-versa; a green, comfortable campus can be calming and inviting. It will also probably inspire much more outdoor actvity--a great way to be active or get to know new people (a vital part of college life).
Ashley
For parents, aid your children in deciding but don't force them into going to a school because it has a better reputation or costs too much. There is always a way to receive funds when going to school. For students, visit every campus you get accepted to, and see if they offer a program that allows you to spend one night with a college student so you can see how life is on campus. Also, if you're nervous that on weekends everyone is going to be gone and you'll be stuck on campus, then make sure you go and visit the school on a weekend. If the school just doesn't fit all your expectations, don't accept because you'll become unhappy quickly. Also, test out the cafeteria food and check out the dorms!
Jewell
This advice is for the student... You have to choose what you think is right because in the end you're the one who lives with the consequences and the rewards. It's always nice to get advice and opinions but utimately you can't let others decide your future.
Erica
college is not only a learning and maturing experience, but one that lasts a lifetime! pick the one that you think is best for you and do not worry about making the wrong descision. it is ok to not know what you want to major in, most people don't! But that is part of the learning experience and it helps you to find the person you are and will become. this is your chance to make yourself into the person you want to be, no matter what that is! And if you thought high school was fun...college is 10 times better!
Ross
Take everything into consideration about the school. Make sure it is the right fit for you out of the schools that you got accepted into. Do NOT stress about it too much. Transferring is not the WORST thing in the world. If you do not have a good first year, sophomore year will be better if you focus in more on a major. Have fun, don't let the time fly by...
Tyler
Don't let the cost make you feel disinclined to go to an expensive school;
follow a four-year plan of study, save extra classes for the end.