Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College Top Questions

I would say to definitely shop around and pick the right school, do not go somewhere just because your friends are going there; everyone's needs are so different. Be open-minded about other students, teachers, different teaching methods, extra curriculars and anything else. The biggest thing to remember is to always put forth the most effort you have, you can really harm your GPA by having the wrong attitude or mind-set. Yes, you are there to get an education and focus on a career, but having fun and laughing with close friends is just as important.

When I was deciding which college to go to, I was so focused on going far away from home I missed out on a bunch of amazing colleges. Not only are colleges in your home state cheaper due to in-state tution, but there are a lot of amazing people and may be the college for you!

Find a welcoming college that is known for their students, faculty, and offers in academic excellence. It's a very good idea to find a college where you are able to take a moment to step outside on the beautiful campus to enjoy a fresh breath of air after a long stressful session of studying.

The advice that I would give students about finding the right college is to really look into their personality. Each college has something unique to offer to that student. People aren't made from cookie cutters, so they aren't all the same. What might be the best college to one is the worst to another. Look at every aspect and make a good decision. Don't rush it.

I would suggest starting research as early as possible, as well as setting up a college fund early to help finance college. Also, it is strongly encouraged that you keep up with your coursework and do not let partying, drinking, and socializing get in the way of studies. Find an appropriate niche of friends to hang out with. Just like in high school, there are people that provide a positive influence and there are people that provide a negative influence. The most important part of making the most of a college experience is to relax when possible and have fun in moderation.

Find a campus that meets and appeals to your needs and desires! If family is important to you, then don't go out of state! If you want to make good grades, then don't go to a school where you will be easily distracted! If you love football, then go to a large state school! Keep in mind that most of these schools truly are good schools; otherwise, they wouldn't be open! Also, talk with as many current students and alumni as possible; do not make a decision based on one or two opinions. Remember that college is absolutely what you make of it; get involved and be open to learning and trying new things! This is the time to explore yourself! Don't cheat yourself out of anything by not trying to do it; take that ballroom dancing class! Make sure to balance your social and academic life; this is your college EXPERIENCE, it's not your friend count or GPA alone. If you smile at everyone and be yourself, you are set! Oh, and remember to take lots of pictures!

Potential students need to visit each university they are even slightly interested in and see which one fits their lifestyle, prospective degree, and has an outstanding student body. If the students at the university are proud, then chances are, you will be proud to call it home too! After all, it will be your home for the next four years so you need to enjoy the atmosphere of not just the campus, but the city and state as well. Also, branch out your first year. Join anything that seems remotely interesting to you to meet people with the same interests as you. This will help you make new friends as opposed to only hanging out with your friends from high school. Also, living in a campus dormitory was one of my favorite experiences and everyone needs to do it. It allows you to become part of the college experience and meet more people. This is the only time in your life you will be able to live in a dorm, so try it for just one year!

Join a school organization to have people to relate with to make the best of your college experience.

Go to wherever you can get the most financial aid or scholarships. Leave the dream universities for grad school when you can be paid to go there. Money will be tight in college but be careful not to let social activities or jobs interfere with your school work. Catching up takes much more effort than putting forth the effort the first time. Don't just look at the campus or the number of your friends going to the college. Take the time to look over the professors in the department of your major. They are the people you should choose a college based on.

The best advice that I could give to a prospective student would be to find a college that you feel comfortable in the moment you set foot on campus. I strongly believe that if you are comfortable with your surroundings, then you will suceed in school. It takes away most of the stress of adjusting to a new lifestyle and encourages you to use whatever resources are available to you, as well as making it easier for you to meet new people. You can always find something that interests you, even if you have to dig for it. Safety and course offerings are important, but it won't mean a lot compared to how you feel in the environment. Jump out and get involved with whatever you can, even if it is just a student job. You will have more interaction with students through a job at the campus bookstore than if you were to work off campus. Big lecture classes force you to interact with your fellow students, but small classes make it easier to have a good relationship with the professor. It is whatever you feel is right for yourself that you should do.