Anthony
First and foremost, make sure to apply to multiple colleges. There is no way someone can choose the best college for themself if they only have one choice. Secondly, try to visit each school to get a feel for the campus. Most students and parents will be able to tell if they will like the school based on a tour of the campus. It probably would be a good idea to choose a school that isn't really close to home, as it will be too tempting for the student to go home often, resulting in them missing out on a lot of the college experience. It is also important to try and get involved on campus. Whether it's joining a club, a fraternity/sorority, or playing sports, students should always try to find something to get involved in. There is no greater way to meet people and to have memory-making experiences than through getting involved.
Kari
When you get that gut feeling that tells you to go for it, listen to it! From day one of filling out applications, I knew I wanted to go to JMU! I spent my last year of high school studying all day every day just to get into the University of my dreams. Now that I'm here, I couldn't ask for more. I work on campus for Residence Life and the working community on campus is closely related and very interactive. All I suggest is to do your best. Only you, student, can decide what college is for you. If you have ANY doubts, talk it over with someone who works for the University, I'm sure they will be of great assistance! Follow your heart, and your dreams will come!
Amanda
Apply to a lot of places - you never know what a school might give you to get you to come there. Tour a lot of places too because you will be surprised. You have to see many different places to know what you want. if you don't choose the right school, you can always transfer!
Sara
Make sure before your senior year of High school that you take the time to visit many different colleges while they are in session. It is important to get a feel for what the environment is like during a busy school day and this allows you to see what the students are like. Also, take the opportunity to go on a school sponsored tour by a student who attends the university. This will allow you to see parts of the campus that you otherwise may not think to explore if you are just walking around with your family. Most importantly, if you know anyone at the school then try to spend a night on the weekend there to see what all is offered for entertainment on the weekend. These will be the best four years of your life, make sure you pick a place that you love!
Abigail
If you know what you want to do in life, you will succeed better academically at an earlier time than not knowing what you want. Make sure you know what you're getting into in terms of career choices and potential income in the future - be realistic with your goals. Make friends that you would not have made in high school, leave your old self -any doubts, anger, frustration - behind you and be open to new experiences and ideas about yourself, your relationships, and the decisions you make.
Vanessa
Make sure that you feel COMFORTABLE when you visit the campus! Plan for the future too, will there be off campus housing? Is there another major you are interested in if you change your major? Does the school offer clubs and extracurriculars that you may enjoy? Be excited about your decision! THESE ARE THE BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE AND THEY WILL BE OVER BEFORE YOU KNOW IT!
Christa
If you don't like it once you've adapted, transfer schools.
Katelynn
Visiting the campus before you make your decision is the most helpful advice I can give. I thought I knew where I wanted to go, but after visiting all three of the colleges I applied for, the choice was made for me. I knew that the atmosphere at James Madison University was excatly what I was looking for. Also, check to make sure that the school your looking into has the program your looking for, and has a good reputation for that major. If your undecided, pick a school that is flexible with the types of programs they offer. Ask people in the field of study your looking into to hear their opinions about which school to attend. Overall, pick a school that matches your personality and everything else will fall into place!
Katie
Do not look based on the name. Look at places you would not consider; they might turn out to be your favorite.
Rebecca
Parents and student need to choose the right college together, based on financial and academic needs, but also keep in mind the choice of the student. College is the time to find out more about yourself, as well as what you want out of life. So, choosing the right college is very important. Students should not conform to how their other classmates are picking a school, and should also avoid stereoptypes. Students should not be afraid to choose the certain school that they want, that may not be what others would expect. The next four years or so are spent there, so they should choose a university that they will actually enjoy, but not just "fit in." Making the most of the college experience is so important. Students and parents alike both learn so much about themselves during this time. Parents need to remember that they most likely had a time where they needed to branch out and find themselves, and to let their child experience that as well. Communication, and absolute support are very important for parents and students to understand in order for their time in college to be the best that they can experience.