Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis Top Questions

You have to visit the campus to get a real feel for the environment and character of the school. Keep an open mind otherwise you miss out on the school that could potentially be right for you. Have an idea as to what you want to study since some schools have programs that are recognized for being excellent, which can help you once your graduate and interview for jobs/internships.

Choosing the "right" college is not as important as a lot of people think. Sure, some values are learned during the college years, but most are already instilled in a person before they reach college age. A successfull person will always succeed, regardless of where they attend school. Choose a school that offers what you're interested in and aligns with your personal values. Not everything is in the name. Hang in there and don't sweat the small stuff.

I would go see the campus to be sure that the student will fit in and feel comfortable. I would try to stay over night to see what the on campus is like. Be sure that the school is accredited in the attended major. Check the retain rate of the incoming freshman. If money is an issue, start looking for scholarships and other ways to pay as soon as you pick the school so you won't go in to too much debt or have to transfer to another school. Meet with an advisor at the school before making final decision to see what classes are offered.

I would advise parents and/or students to look at the education of the schooling. You can make friends anywhere you go, but you are paying for an education so make the best of your education. Make sure that you are going to be comfortable with your decision because transftering can take more time to get a degree. Also, make sure their is a place for the student to study, whether it be a library or a study lounge because they will spend alot of time studying. Last of all, take the time a visit each college, get a tour of the campus and sit in one class to see if you can see yourself going to that college. Choosing a college is a big decision and takes time to decide.

My advice would be to make sure you do college visits to the colleges you are applying for so you get a feel for how the campus is. If you don't like the campus, it will be harder to want to get up everyday and go to class. Also, check into the different areas your interested in studying. Some places are better than others for different majors and so you want to make sure you are going to the best possible college that suits you. Go with your gut feeling. If your a little uneasy about moving 1000 miles away from your parents to go to school, then don't. It's ok to be afraid, almost everyone gets a little homesick, but it's a little easier if you are sure you're going where you need to go. The last piece of advice I have is be open-minded. In college, there are so many different kinds of people all put into the same area. It really gives you an opportunity to get to know people that are very different from yourself so embrace it while you have the chance.

Visit, not just the college, but also the surrounding areas of your college location. Start looking early, and make a decision. Focusing on one or two colleges your last 1-2 years of high school will be less of a burden than applying to several and making a blind choice.

I would suggest for them to narrow their college search based on what degree(s) they are interested in pursuing as well as the location and size, a tuition price range, and the available opportunities that the school has to offer. I believe that every person embarking on their college experience should make an informed decision on what school to attend. Each person is different and has different needs. Colleges tailor their tuition, curriculum, and overall environment to try and accomodate each students needs- It is just a matter of being able to find the best fit for that person. I advise for students looking at prospective colleges to keep in mind what they may need/want in the future. My advice on making the most of the college experience would be to try and stay involved, continually challenge oneself both in school and life and take advantage of the opportunities available. Opportunities and experiences in college serve as guidance for a person to learn more about oneself and what he/she may want to do with their life. The overall college experience is a preparatory course for the rest of one's life.

First of all, make out a priority list and decide what is most important to you in where you decide to get your education. A few things to consider are: cost (financial aid), prestige, location, sports, student activities, culture diversity, or religion. If you can put these things in order of importance, it will be easier to find a college that is the best fit for you. Next, I would try to talk to someone that has attended this college. Not a recruiter or faculty member, but someone who has attended and obtained a degree that has no bias. I also think scheduling a campus visit for an informative guided tour is beneficial. Research the school: academic statistics (pass/fail rates), rate of drop out, crime rate, and social events available to students. Also check out available housing on and off campus. This doesn't seem like the most important factor at first but when it comes down to being completely miserable or completly happy, where you live can make all the difference.

Figure out what you want to do in life before you jump into a program.

It is important for students to begin the selection process somewhere in their late junior year to early senior year of high school. A student can begin by talking to older friends, siblings, or adults whose opinions they respect. It's important to attend a school in a location that is comfortable for them. If a student has never been away from home, they may want to consider a college within a few hours of home. It is also important for students and parents to have effective communication about their expectations, fears, and ideas about the college selection. If it is important to a student to attend a school with many social opportunities, a parent needs to respect their need for socialization. College can be the best years of your life, if you find the campus that's right for you. Get to know your teachers and communicate with them frequently. Befriend someone different than you - you may learn more from them than in a class. Sit near the front of the class. Take notes. Study. Become a person known for integrity and compassion. Don't take shortcuts, you're only hurting yourself. Oh...and have fun.