Kellsi
My advice would be to make an appointment to visit the campus and stay overnight in the residence halls. This gives you a great perspective of the student life atmosphere that you would not get if you just visited for the day. It also gives you a chance to talk to students and observe how things go. It's important to go somewhere you will be comfortable and see yourself living.
John
Have an open mind. Try to be happy whenever you can be, and sometimes when you can't. Love life, not just events. Love God, Love others. Learn to Love yourself! You'll get pretty far with that.
Sarah
Keep an open mind. Don't be pressured by people who believe there college is the best one out there, it might be right for them but could not be for you!! Tour several campuses, don't just go to the one you want to go. God might not be calling you to that campus and you would end up not enjoying it at all. When visiting a campus, stay with someone in the dorm, get a feel for what the dorm life feels like it is probably the third factor behind acedemics and financil aid. Talk to present students at the school, ask them what they think about their school, ask them about the pros and cons. Also talk to professors, see what their classes are like as well as an interested major. Just because your parents went to that school and they are pressuring you to go there too, doesn't mean you have to go there too!!!! These are the best four years of your life, go into them with a clear mind and open heart!!
Heather
I would encourage parents to let their students make their own choices and be supportive, because it is the student's life. That doesn't mean however, to not be involved and encourage your child to work hard. College is a time to discover who you are, and learn how to be your own person.
Students, get involved in activities. This is your chance to make a life for yourself away from the watchful eye of your parents, but that doesn't mean to cut your parents out. They still have valuable knowledge of life that can help you get through a jam. Also, take advantage of the opportunities and resources available to you. They can make your life easier, and trust me, they won't always be there.
Luke
Don't look at the money. Although college may be expensive, if you were supposed to be at that college, God will provide a way for you to be there. Find a college with a major you like, a spiritual background you can appreciate, and then apply for whatever financial aid you can get. Find a way to complete your dream.
Stacy
College is a monumental chapter in a person's life. Many lifeskills and abilities are found and learned at college. College students also find who they are while being away from their families and high school friends. They have the opportunity to make new friends and be who they want to be and for a Christian, who God wants them to be. That was the biggest deciding factor for me, personally. I felt called to Indiana Wesleyan University and after being a student here, I can see why. This school has the Christian environment that I want and all my classes revolve around Jesus Christ. It is important for parents and students to know what they are looking for; whether it is a big campus, small classes, certain degrees, food options, or living arrangements. Choosing a college is an essential decision in a person's life and it must be taken seriously and with much thought and consideration.
Scott
Find what fits. Find professors that are interested and involved. Find facilities that encourage your field of study. Find a school that pushes study abroad and cultural diversity.
Jessica
Be sure to visit the campus more than once. Look into the social aspects of the school, if you are not happy in your doorm life, your experience will not be as fun, and fullfilling :)
Kinzie
Find a university that is accredited and takes a genuine interest in the student.
Shea
Find the college that has the right areas of study and programs that you would want, and research how well how people do when they get jobs. The social aspect you can have anywhere, do not base your choice of how much fun the college looks.