Miami University-Oxford Top Questions

With the economy as it is right now, education is very important. But, it's not only important to get an education but you need to be efficient and get what you pay for. It has to be worth it. A lot of research needs to be done about various schools and definitely what the student wants to do or needs. Personally, I believe that it is good to come into school with a major picked out after a lot of research because I feel that when students come in undecided they don't get as much advising attention. You can still continue to take other classes and may even change your major. You have to be happy in your school, or as happy as you can be, because when you are in the right mindset to learn, it comes a lot easier and you absorb a lot more when you are enjoying your studies. Friends are important too and college is a good time to meet people, learn how to balance your life, and to grow up. Always be yourself and don't let others dictate your life. College is not high school, it's a lifestyle.

Parents: Trust your son/daugher with their decisions. If they are making the choice to attend college, they already have a good head on their shoulders. There will always be bumps in the road. Don't get too worried about the small ones. They are just experiencing life. Students: The above applies to you, as well. Also, don't waste a day of your years at college. They go by even faster than high school. Work hard, have fun, meet a lot of people. You will never get these years back. Next step is the real world. Don't have too much fun your freshman year! If you dig yourself a hole, you will NEVER be able to get out of it. College is not easy, and it doesn't matter how smart you were in high school. Adjusting to a new lifestyle can throw you all out of whack. Just realize everyone else is going through the same thing you are and talk to the tons of friends you have made! There are more people there to help and guide you through the experience than you realize.

Take your time, weigh your options, live in the moment.

When looking for colleges, aesthetics are not all that matter. Talk to the people, observe the people, talk to others that are similar to you that have any afiliation with the school, talk to professors, and if they are not open or welcoming or excited about what they do, that is a red flag. Look at the demographics of those attending the school, if looking for diversity this is important. Is the college in an environment that would help you stay focused and make you happy being there (e.g. if you don't like cold weather or a school that is isolated in rural areas- then stay away from conservative, predominantly white, midwest based universities). Is this a place that will encourage you to grow and think outside of your normal views, or is this a place that is very close minded and does not welcome diversity or "outside the box" mentality? DO NOT go based on your first impression, really talk to people and visit the university a couple of times to get a real feel for it, because you are going to be there for a minimum of the next 4 years of your life!

Money is the most important. I chose the school that gave me the best financial aid package, and every day I am satisfied not only with my school but my financial aid. College is very expensive, and I love not having the sense of dread that other students do about future debts, because I will have few, if any, when I am out of Miami University.

Be open to new ideas, new areas, and places that would be outside of your comfort zone. College is a time to experiment so you can experience things that you would otherwise never have the opportunity to do. Studying abroad, I think, is a crucial part of a college experience. It gives a global perspective during this time of globalization and opens your eyes to other cultures and languages. Study a language other than your first - being bilingual is going to be crucial and if you dont you'll wish you had. Take advantage of oppotunities given by professors or around campus. Do things or at least check out things that seem of interest to you even if your roommate or best friend doesnt want to - youll meet more friends there. Most importantly, have fun! Best years of your life!

The best advice that I can give parents and students on the college search is to visit the schools you are considering. I remember very clearly walking onto the campus of my first choice school and knowing immediately that I didn't belong there, and I also remember the joy of walking onto the campus where I belonged. I can't imagine how different my life would be if I hadn't had the opportunity to make college visits. I am almost certain that I would have gone to my first choice school, been miserable, and subsequently transfered. I know that its not easy to find the time and money to travel, especially with the economy as it is, but in the long run, I think it is essential to choosing the correct school. My advice is to do whatever you can to make college visits, I think it is worth it so that you can make a choice you're willing to stick with for four years.

Be sure to talk to current students as well as graduates. The people in charge of most tours are there to make money. You will get a truthful response from students, and they actually have first hand experience.

live it up

My best piece of advice would be to make sure you can see yourself at the campus and that you feel comfortable there. Before picking your college, you should visit the school. Stay with a friend or sign up for a program that allows you to really experience the college life. It will give you a better feel for the school and whether or not you will be comfortable there. You also should pick you school for yourself. Do not go somewhere just because your best friend is, or your brother/sister, or because your parents want you to go there. You have to pick for yourself and go somewhere where you feel truly comfortable and fit in. Then once you are in school you need to get involved in order to make the most of your experience. Put yourself out there. Try new things and make a lot of friends!