Miami University-Oxford Top Questions

Choose the school that you feel the most comfortable at because the first year is a rough one and in order for you to succeed you should be the most comfortable you can be.

The one piece of advice I would give would be to not only research the college or university but also the possible major. From personal experience, I fould an amazing school but when I learned more about my major, I realized that I didn't like the program and the way it was set up. It is important to research everything possible because the more you know the easier it will be to narrow down the list of colleges to find the perfect match. As much as research may not be fun, it will be completely worth it!

First of all, I would not recommend going to a school that you have not visited thoroughly. And by visit, I don't just mean go there for part of a day and take the one-hour orientation (though you should do that too), I mean exploring the campus on your own, talking to students there, and DEFINITELY visit while school is in session--you can't get the feel for a school when the students are gone. Second, research, and do it well. There are so many resources out there now, especially with the internet, and tons of great books about colleges that compare them. Third, make a list of what YOU want in a college, and once you have narrowed down a decent sized list, make negatives/positives comparison charts for them. Once in college, explore extracurriculars as much as you can; take every opportunity possible to expand your network of friends and meet new people. Be active in utilizing any resources your college has, especially along the lines of advising, internships, and career services. College is what you make of it--and an amazing, holistic college experience is not just going to fall into your lap.

Look for people friendly schools. Places that don't treat you like you're part of the herd. Places with great staff and faculty and if you know what you're major is going to be look for places that have a strong department for that. There's a lot to think about and look over when applying to schools so college visits are a must, also so is a gut feeling. If you see the school and fall in love there's a good chance it's the one for you. There are going to be problems with every school but you have to know what you're still willing to compromise on and what you are not. If I had to do this again with my family I would be asking them to go through everything with me and break down the school itself and the community surrounding it. And don't overdo anything, find a middle ground and build from there it's better to make mistakes and learn from them then wandering around with your head in the clouds. College is a time to learn and grow let your kids stand on their own feet.

Students who want to explore the possibilites of varying career options, choose a school focused on liberal education. If a career path isn't figured out going into school, jut declare undecided. No one has it all figured out. Explore, explore, explore! Walk the world like you own it, go abroad. I have learened that taking big risks can lead to big rewards. Remember, college is a "clean slate" start, consider it a second chance. No one knows of your past, so make these 4 years a wonderful memory you'll never forget. Every college has drinkers, druggies, geeks, etc. , pick your friends carefully. What you do here will reflect on your career and lifestyle as you prepare yourself to step out into the real world. Get involved. It will help you destress and stay active. Remember, play hard and work hard! Parents, they will make mistakes, but let them fix it. Continue being supportive /involved in their life. They will still need you when things fall apart. There is no comfort like a mother's/father's hug. Just don't over do it. I know what I say isn't new, but sometimes it helps to be reminded.

The right college is somewhere you feel safe and accepted, and may not be where you expect. I visited Miami's campus, and immediately felt at home. Since being here, I have gotten involved with several clubs, got a job on campus, and have lived on campus for the past two years. I attend hockey games religiously, and try to go to other sports and culutural events as well. I didn't join a sorority, but several of my friends went Greek, as it was a good fit for them. I definitely made the right choice coming to Miami University of Ohio.

Always look for what fits your best interest. Do not be afraid to make the tough decisions and if you need some advice contact me. I can always give you some interesting things to consider.

First off, choose a school for its education. No matter how much you love the surrounding atmosphere, college is a place to learn, and you need good teachers and classroom environment to do that. Definitely choose a place where you can be involved in extracurriculars as well - finding a group that you love, be it a sport, literary club, or Spanish club, really helps in the adjustment process because those friends become your family away from home. Also, look into the social scene. Parties and dancing sound fun, but when there's nothing to do on the weekends but drink, you may end up regretting that college choice (now or later). Don't obsess over things - do well academically, physically, and socially, but don't get bogged down by a B or not making the soccer team. BE HAPPY. Expect the unexpected.

Visit each school and stay over a night or two!

Take what most universities say with a grain of salt. Whereas the school probably does most of the things it promises, when you're visiting, they're mainly tring to get you into their university. Things change drastically once you actually attend that school. Read the fine print carefully. Consider all the options, not just a few attractive ones. Most of all, though, start out strong academically. There is almost no going back if you do poorly in the first couple of semesters. Have fun, but remember, the focus is school. And this comes from someone who isn't exactly a bookworm. Good luck and best wishes.