Howard University Top Questions

Go with your heart. Apply everywhere! Even if you aren't a schools traditonal archetype of a student, you never know who may be reading your story and has a similar situation as you. Go to a school that fits your traditon, not one that will force theirs on you. College is the place where you learn and grow and should be a chance for you to develop spiritually, intecllectually, and physically the way you want to, not your parents. You should choose a school that will help feed your passion and drive. You don't want to work doing something you absolutely hate do you? You have one life, it belongs to you. Take risk, seize opportunity, and don't be afraid to go against the Status Quo. You don't get attention being a follower. It's that one person who stands in the "free speech zone" that makes you turn your head. The one getting things done and being themselves. That's all you have in this world is you. Really, that's it. You are the ultimate representation of your self, and the college you chose should should reprensent you.

First and foremost, no university's essence can be fully captured in a mass-mailed, six page admissions brochure. And if it could, you certainly wouldn't want to go there! It is imperative that students visit potential schools. Preferably before applying, but certainly before accepting admission and heading off to spend four (or more) years there. Also, please treat a college visit as the important event it is. You're not deciding on what to have for lunch, you're affecting your educational and professional future here, act like it. Seriously discuss the University and the program to which you plan on applying with departmental leaders, professors and current students. You do not want to show up for the first day of class to find out that you've stepped into your worst nightmare, especially once that tuition check has been written. Once you've found your niche school remember why you're there. Being the president of three organizations, having lots of stories and being elected Student Body president doesn't make up for a horrible GPA. Enjoy the experience, you'll never get it again. But don't forget the cost to you and those you love!

Parents and students should visit colleges and universities together, because it gives them both a chance to see and feel what the campus is like. The students get a feel for the student body atmosphere, while the parents get the chance to perceive the environment and give their child their opinion. It is also important to have parents and students interact with the campus environment, by going to specially planned events where both parties get to see the campus "alive." This may mean going to a football game or going to a play or a festival, that the college or university might be holding. Additionally, parents and students should also schedule tour mettings or guides where they can explore the campus with someone who already knows the ins and outs of the university or school grounds. Also, it is reccommended that the parent and the student do their "homework," by researching these colleges and universities before they go, by seeing what best suits that prospective student. By doing this, the parent wins by knowing what to expect before getting there, while the students hasan overall view of what the campus is about.

My advice would be choose the best college for you and one that will fit your budget.

I would tell students to firstly follow thier heart. If you have a choice in what college to attend; make sure its the one you really desire to learn at. Its a decision based on whats best for you; not your parents or anyone else. When choosing your college remember to be realistic. Set finicial goals early, because the less debt you acquire before graduation, the better off you will be. Students should learn early to take control of your education. You should not souly depend on parents, friends, advisors, or anyone else because in the end your becoming an adult and your responsible for your future. My advice to parents would be not to pressure your kids into anythig they are not ready for. Tough love is one thing but you dont want to push them away! Id tell them set finicial plans early, before the graduation of highschool. Do your own research; dont just depend on brochures and tours because there is ALWAYS SOME HIDDEN COST! If you can help it, you dont want your kid to be the embarrassed one on the 1st day of classes because they have not been validated. MAKE THE BEST OF IT

visit the college you plan to attend research fully about the school and compare to make the best decision

Parents should go to the College that their son or daughter is attending. College prep teacher's have a very general and thus limited understanding of how college, college life, and financial aid works. Go on college tours if they are available., Live as a college student, and do what you can to get a real life understanding of the enviroment your son or daughter will be in for the next 4+ years.

visit the school first and talk to someone there

Find the truth out about any college you are considering. Don?t just accept the white-washed version the institution presents you on their website or during a campus visit. Talk to current students and alumni, and make sure the school provides the services and environment you desire. Once you get to school throw yourself into campus life. Study hard, get involved and never miss an opportunity to maximize your college experience. The worst feeling at the end of college is wondering what could have been.

Please make an informed decision! Before sepping onto the campus know what you want to do with your life. Changing your major mutiple times is costly! Preliminarily, do the best you can in high school to ensure yourself a scholarship. Parents: Start a college savings account for your children when they are young. Don't leave them out to dry, when it's time for them to attend college. Do not depend on the government to completely pay for their education.