Kevin
Find a place where you will be happy to go for the next 4 years or esle it will not be very fun. Also be open to new ideas.
Rebecca
I believe that first and foremost, parents need to have a more active role in helping their children make the life changing decision of determining which college is the appropriate one for their child. I believe many students choose schools based on the wrong decisions, such as fraternity or sorority life, friends, or distance from home. Students need to step out of their comfort zones and take a chance, because I believe this choice is one which changes your life forever. Don't be afraid to go to a school where you don't know anyone; go visit as many schools as you can and talk to the students and find out what kind of things that particular place can offer YOU. When you do make the big decision, and leave home for college, make the most of it; and, I don't just mean partying! College is not all about your social life. It's important to find value in your classes and truly try to make the most of your education, because the knowledge you gain in this crucial time in your life will give you the power to succeed not just in your career, but in life!
Chad
You should pick a school not based on one attribute. College is a life changing experience and every aspect of an instituition should be considered. You should consider not only the academics, but the campus culture and city culture as well. College is not just about books, it's about discovering who you are and what you want to do with your life and as such you should think about that when you pick a school.
Elizabeth
Planning your college career and trying to decide on your future is always a daunting task. Most high school seniors and their parents believe that a definite major and carrer choice is required before applying to colleges. The truth is that although it is helpful to have an idea on which direction you would like to choose, most college students will change their major and career path within their first two years of school. When choosing a college, research the academics, social highlights, and community of institutions that you have in mind. Make sure that it's something that you both agree on, because it is where you will be growing up, taking on responsibilities , and molding yourself and your future. Alot of parents are set on their children getting into IV Leage schools, but as far as undergraduate degrees are concerned, that isn't the most important aspect of deciding your child's career. In college, you should be focused, free, and able to have a good time. Make the most of this experience, it truly will last you a lifetime.
Shelby
The advice I would give to parents and or students about finding the right college to attend is quite simple. I would tell them not to panic and just breathe. Students should take their time in finding the right college. It can be a hard decision but usually they will know which way to go and what is best for them. The process of choosing a college is more stressful than it should be. Students should inform themselves of every potential college and make sure they have all the facts down. This will help with the choosing process. Once that decision has been made, students and parents should stay positive with the process of starting post secondary education. The experience of college will be one that the student will never forget. Students should work hard, stay motivated, meet new people, and show school spirit. All of these things come with having a great college experience. College is filled with making memories as well as getting a great education. Who wouldn't want to be able to relate to that?
Douglas
I would tell parents and students to visit as many schools as possible, and agree on the one that feels right to both parties. However, I believe that parents should let their children choose which school feels right to them (if it is financially feasible), and if it doesn't work out, they can always transfer. As for students making the most out of their experience, the best advice I would give is to get as involved as possible in a group they feel comfortable around. A great college experience revolves around people and activities that make one feel a sense of pride in their school.
amanda
you may not know who you are before you go to college and that is perfectly ok. Its about choosing the college that will help you find out who you are . You want to be able to experiment and make sure you are making the right decisions that will affect the rest of your life. Its not an easy decision but you will be happy in the end! College could be some of the best years of your life if you give it the chance and put your heart and sould into it all.
Brittany
For incoming freshman, my best advice would be to make sure you go to all classes, especially lecture classes and take good notes. Don't go to class to play on your computer, but to learn. Review your notes after class and try to make a few friends in each class in case you miss a day or need to get notes. Don't do drugs, they are a waste of your time and money, which you'll need plenty of both in order to suceed. To parents, make sure you stay somewhat involved in your child's college experience, this is going to be probably one of the first times they've ever been away from home for long periods of time and they need to know that you are still their parent and care about them and their education. Remember that they are still growing and will make many mistakes, but only if you are there to help them get back on track will they be able to learn from that experience and make it out okay.
Kristen
I feel that the best things for any prospective student to do are to weigh his/her options and to not scratch a school off their list just because they think they can't afford it. When ultimately choosing the school that he/she will attend, they should have visited the school to get a feel of it's academic vs. social atmospheres and then list the pros and cons of each experience. After all, this person should plan to be at the college for at least the next two/four years of her life. It has to be somewhere that they can see themselves growing both in knowledge and as a person. If you're not happy about where you end up, then the odds are against you and things won't turn out well.
Heather
Be sure to examine all your options and find a program that has a degree that you will like. dont really worry to much about fitting in because generally you will be able to find a group of people that you get along with and like that will make college a great experience and one of the better times in your life