Kelly
While planning ahead is very good and helpful, the unexpected should be expected to happen. The only thing static is change, so if something does not work out as planned, such as choice of major or choice of school, be ready to be flexible and open. Even if it is not how it was planned, things will work out.
Jessica
I would tell them to choose a school not for its appearance but instead for its academic potential. When the child gets to school, it is very important for them to begin making friends as soon as possible since these are bonds that one may have for the rest of their time at the college/university or for life. Also, try to get involved, whether it is with the Greek system, intramural athletics, or any number of clubs on campus. These things will not only make your college experience more memorable, but they also help to shape the adult one will grow into and they supplement a resume nicely. Enjoy every minute of college because it goes by so fast, but make sure to make your studies a priority! Enjoy!
Derek
First of all, when finding the right college the choices must be that of the students. No matter what plans a parent had for their child, they must allow their child to explore their options to find out which school they would feel comfortable with. Of course a parent should be able to give advice on the matter, but in the end the student will be the one living and learning there so they should feel at home at the school.
When students are trying to find the right college its important that they think about what carreer direction they are thinking about going and while picking the school they should think about how flexible they would be able to change that direction. Keep your options open. Also think about cost and distance from home. They may not seem as important before you go, but they are extremely important.
When you're at school always keep an open mind. Constantly meet new people and always have the mindset that those people might be new friends. You will find out so much about yourself after your first year. Also remember why your there. Study Hard! Make all that money worth it.
Mercedez
Parents and students should choose a college with the most diverse opportunities because incoming freshmen are likely to change their interest several times before deciding upon a major. Therefore, his/her college experience would be maximized if the chosen college has diverse course options to accomodate for any change of interest.
Michelle
When you look for a college, don't get hung up on size or what size classes there are. Go to the campus, talk to a couple of professors and faculty, take a tour. See how the school handles credit hours and spend a night on campus if you can. I didn't want to go to a big school because I didn't want to get lost in the crowd. I ended up at Indiana University, one of the big ten, and I absolutely love it! I couldn't ask for a better match for me. The key is making sure that you get involved on campus once you're there.
Jessica
It is important to make sure when you visit the school you feel at home and comfortable. Also it is really important to make sure it had the programs nessecary to succeed in the job you want to purse after college.
Jacob
Deciding if a large school or a small school is right for them, is one of the biggest questions a senior heading to college needs to consider. I came from a very small high school and had to decide whether I was going to a small private school or a large public school. Although I felt I would have done fine at a small school, I felt it was important for me to prove myself in a large environment, so I made the decision to go to IU. Many people I know decided to transfer schools because they were in too small or to large environment and did not feel comfortable. My advice to future students is to visit the campus, and if possible stay for a day or two and try to get a feel of how life there would be. After visiting a small and large school, pick the one you felt most comfortable in. Many people focus on costs, and ranks of departments at the schools, but most schools will help financially, and as long as you excell in your area of study, you will be recognized by future empoloyers. Comfortability is of the upmost importance.
Leslie
Find a college that fits you and what you want to become and not what you think you should become. Consider all the changes that you will experience and find the college that will make those transitions easier for you. The ideal college should make you feel like you are at home when you are away from home, lead you to learn things you never thought you would learn, and have experiences that will be with you for the rest of your life. Take the time to do the research, the college fairs, and the college visits. Most importantly, following your instincts is never a bad thing and should strongly be considered when finding the right college and making the most of the college experience.
Jonathan
Before choosing a college(s), think hard about what you really want to be doing with your life. Look into the specific programs that colleges have to offer, and be willing to approach faculty members or send them an e-mail with questions you may have. If you can, visit for a few days to sit in on some classes, speak with students with similar interests, and get the feel for life on the campus. Remember, life outside of home is different and, at times, more difficult with the newfound freedom you get. Look at colleges and programs that you can really "see yourself" in and do what you think will make you happy in life. As with what I'm doing, a career may not make you the richest person, but it doesn't matter as long as you feel fulfilled in the end.
Shaquayla
Pick a school that is best for the student because it is hard being away from home for so long. I would also advise the student to think about everything that they do before they do it because several people make mistakes in college that effects them for the rest of their life. I would alos advise getting involved in campus activites but still foucs on school and grades., it is the reason you are in college. Have fun but do not lose focus it is easy to bring you GPA down but harder to bring it up.