Anne
I would advise students and parents to consider price, how far from home the campus is, and what your major is. If cost is an issue, be sure to talk to the financial aid office to see exactly how much its going to cost. If your student does not have a car, consider how far from home you will want to go. The trips back and forth from school add up quickly. If its too far or there are very few people from your hometown going there, it will be hard to get home often. Also, if you are dead set on a major and want to go to the best school for that field, by all means go! But if you are undecided its nice to go to a relatively big school, like Kent, that offers a wide variety of programs so you can easily switch. Last but certainly not least, don't be afraid to make the wrong choice. Choosing a college is not the end of the world, and you are allowed to change your mind later.
Meagan
If students plan on living on campus, I would advise them and their parents to visit the campus. Your campus should feel like home. If students already know their major, they should definitely look into the campus?s programs in that field. One campus might have a better program than the other. I myself was an exploratory major and Kent State had a great program that helped these majors find what they were truly interested in. One way students can make the most out of their college experience is by always putting their studies first. Student?s sole purpose at college is to be all they can be and prepare themselves for their designated working field. Another way is to get involved in something you are passionate about. There are so many different clubs and groups on campus; there is literally something for everyone! This is a great way to feed your spare time in a positive way, and to make new friends. Feeling at home, studying and working hard, getting involved and making new friends should definitely make your college experience something you will never forget.
Maria
Be sure your financial situation is covered early on. The process is ridiculously complicated, especially if you're doing it on your own. This time is supposed to be fun, so take advantage of that. But don't get completely caught up in the social aspect of school, because that's not why you're there. Your college years are about having fun, but college is about preparing yourself for the rest of your life. If you don't take the preparation seriously, there's no way any employer is going to take you seriously when you go looking for a job. That having been said, it's not always about the grades. (Contradictory, I know.) Be sure you're attending class and doing the work, but get the most out of your studies that you can. Argue with professors when you don't agree. Participate in discussions. Overall, college about choices, so make sure you make the right ones, and learn from mistakes when you don't
Chad
The advice I would give is to sit down and really think about what you want out of this experience. Make sure that what you do with your college career is going to benefit those goals. Take every opportunity you can to assure that the time and money you're spending on college will help you achieve the goals you have set for yourself.
Other than that take the time to enjoy your experience. People always say that High School is the best time in your life, but they are wrong. College allows you to grow and develop on your own for the first time, and if you make the most of it the rewards can be wonderful.
Hannah
Make sure you visit every campus and ask about how often classes in your major are offered. Talk to other students and try the food. Just make sure you visit!
Elizabeth
The biggest advice I can give someone who is trying to find the right college is to visit the school. I had read a lot about Kent but when I stepped on campus for a tour, I knew it was where I wanted to go. It felt right. Also, I've had a few experiences of being home sick, give it a try. Don't just give up on school because you are scared of the experience you're having. As for making the most out of the college experience, make sure youg et involved. There is so much to do on a campus that all the activities may make your head spin. but the biggest piece of advice is to try new things out and see what really suits you. Be open to new ideas and new people.
Sarah
Make sure all of the financial aid papers get turned in on time.
laura
visit the campus before choosing!
Matt
Do your research when finding a college. Sometimes if the school is too big or too small it will put you off. If you are looking for somewhere reasonably close to home, and want the most out of your college experience, Kent State University is the place to go. It offers a wide variety of majors and many social clubs and activities for all interests. I highly recommend this place to any one looking for a 4 year college!
Jeffrey
I would look for the college that has a great program the thier major of choice and that has a good job placement program for after graduation. I would also look for one that was either small or large depending on the students preference.