Derrick
Parents should respect their child's decision about what they want to major in for college. A student who is forced into a major by a parent isn't as likely to succeed, and college may turn out to be a negative experience for them. Whereas a student who knows what they want to go for, will be more likely to remain driven if they wish to succeed, and make college a positive experience. A student should make sure that the college they choose has a good program for their chosen field, and it should be something that has transferrable credits should circumstances change. The first college (or major) isn't always the best fit for a student, even if they were SURE it would be, so it is important that things be transferrable so that they aren't starting over with nothing to show. Parental support is also important within reason. Students should respect the opinion of their parents, and consider their feedback, but in the end, it's their life, and the ultimate decision and responsibility is on them to ensure a positive experience.
Rachel
Visit the school you think you are interested in. Talk with faculty at the school and take a tour of the campus. When you go to college, have a social life, but get the work finished as well. College is supposed to be the best time of our lives.
Antonise
Advice that I would giving students or parents about making the right decision is to make sure the college has the best program that fits you. Make sure the college fits your needs, for example food, housing, transportation, sports, employment, great professors and so forth. Also you want to make sure you have fun while getting the most out your education.
Melainie
I would visit the college for a weekend, not just a day to truly get the feel of the college. You need to visit with your parents and then with someone your own age so you can experience it fully. You will be on your own living in this place so this decision is ultimatly yours. Upon entering college I would immediatly get your books and wander around campus, find your classes so your not stressed the first day and so you know your way around. You will see people sitting around and find things to do. This also is a great indicator of a campus. Your first weekend at campus DO NOT GO HOME. I cannot stress this enough, I know its tempting but you need to go out and meet people this first week is crucial in the social department, you dont have homework yet so take advantage. This is not highschool you WILL need to study, winging it as you did in highschool will not work so study effectively so you can still have those friends. Both aspects are equally important in order to get through college effectively while making those lifelong friends everyone needs. Good Luck!
Rachel
Parents need to let their children make the decision on what college they want to attend and not let the parents' influence choose they school for their children. The school is not suiting the parents' needs, but the upcoming students' needs. Remember parents, your children are attending the school, not you. The school they choose reflects their personality, not yours. Future students, do not hesitate to ask questions to the attending students at any colleges about the different majors/programs, social life, and other activities around the school. This will give you a better perspective on the school and the student life.
Laureen
Some make choosing a college sound like the most important decision of your life. In some ways, it is. You can't be afraid to apply to schools that are Ivy-League, private, or extremely selective. The effort of applying to good schools, out of state schools, and exclusive schools may be intimidating, but in ten years, or even just one or two, you could be thanking yourself and everyone who helped you get into that school of your dreams; or you could be regretting not taking a chance.
Choosing a major is important in college selection. You should research majors available across America, and all related majors. When you find one that suits you, or jumps out at you, then you can start selecting a school. Not all schools have the same majors; some won't even have the one you're looking for. That is why it's important not to be intimidated. There is support out there for everyone; even if your friends or family can't help, someone else can.
College is what you make it. You can turn a new leaf, or better yourself in some way. Everyone's expirience is different.
Amanda
I would say go visit the school for yourself, don't let anybody tell you where to go to school at. Your going to be spending four years in colllege, make sure that you feel comfortable there and that it is the best fit for you as a student.
Hannah
Choosing a school is a difficult process. I know as a student in high school having all the choices in the world was scary. It is important to remember that college is about education, but also about the whole experience. I think it is important to meet many different people and learn about life rather than from a textbook. Remember that knowing what the campus or the dorms look like is not going to make a huge difference in the long run. Know what you want to do, know what the school can offer you both academically and non-academically. The most important things I learned in college had nothing to do with a classroom so just remember that you can meet amazing people in alot of places. Don't limit yourself.
Marti
Make sure they have the degree you want and a great program and a place where you can meet tons of great friends
Eric
Find some where that you are comfortable