Caitlin
LOOK LOOK for scholarships and many different colleges and universities.
Kori
Don't worry about money - yes it is a big factor in life in general, but I know from experience that once you walk onto the campus of the school you're supposed to be at, you'll know it. It may be a really expensive school, but if it's where you're supposed to be, that will all work out. Don't ever be afraid to ask the school for more money, but just remember that your college experience is supposed to be a great one, so don't miss out on it just because of the money factor. It will work out - I know that for a fact, because I go to a $24,000/year school, and somehow the money ALWAYS comes in each semester. :)
Caitlin
research and check out all the possiblities.
Corrie
Be choosy. Visit and revisit the school. Talk with financial aid prior to signing papers to make sure everything will be covered
Tanya
Choose what feels like home to the student. If they don't think they will be comfortable there then the chances of them doing well at that school go down. you want them to have a place that feel as much like home as possible, no matter if they are hundereds of miles away or just down the street. So many people worry about the cost and not the enviroment of the school and choose one that may be cheaper but lacks the feeling of home. Feeling at home is very important, because it is going to be home for the next few years of your life, so why note feel good about the place you are going to spent those years? chose a place like home so you have one away from home.
Kira
Take time to look at every aspect of the colleges that your are considering before making any decisions. It is really a great idea to visit a school before deciding if it is right for you. If it is possible, stay overnight in the dorms and try to attend some student life activities. This gives you an even better look at the school than just visiting with admissions and taking the tour. Do not let money be the deciding factor in your choice. It can be a serious issue, but there are a lot of scholarships to be had within universities, communities, and nationwide. Apply for as many of those as possible. It can be time consuming, but it is worth it when you consider what it pays.
When you get to school, get involved! Use your talents or enjoy your favorite hobbies through small groups, intramurals, or whatever else your school has to offer. This is a great way to make friends who have the same interests. Also try to make friends with a broad range of people. It makes life more interesting and really broadens your world view.
Remember to study!
Thomas
Parents and/or students who are still looking for the right college should take a number of issues into account when comparing different universities. The first topic upon which to focus would be looking for the best quality education for the price. Next, one should consider the environment of, and around the university (town/city size, class sizes, majors offered, extra curricular activities, etc.). Another crucial factor to consider is the availability of off campus activities within driving/walking distance. As yet another thought while choosing the perfect college or university is the distance from home. If the student wants to get away from their family and enjoy living during the collegiate years as an individual, colleges farther away from would be better choices. Finally, when considering a college or university, parents and students should take into account all factors (quality/price, environment, activities, and distance) and make the most logical choice before deciding.
Nathan
Pray about it, then after you've examined all your options, sit down with each other and go over the pros and cons of each college. Keep in mind to consider career choices, expenses, atmosphere, and quality of education. Then make a decision
Jaeson
Apply to as many colleges as possible because the one that you may WANT to go to either may not except you or when you visit the campus you may find out that it's just not for you. And then look at the cost in comparison to your financial aid and what the class sizes are.
Caleb
As far as choosing a college, finances must be considered, but they should not be the main factor. There are always scholarships, financial aid and student loans - do not sacrifice a solid education for minor financial concerns. Be sure the school you are interested in has a solid program in your major. Also, while the big schools are attractive, one-on-one interaction with professors is incomparably beneficial. If extra-curriculars are your interest, research the programs at the school you're looking at. Finding a group that you connect with is a must and will greatly benefit your academic as well as social and relational experience in college.
I believe that "getting the most out of college" varies for every individual. The obvious answer is "do well in class so that you can get a good job." That is very important, and the main reason for college is academia, but there is so much more than a test grade. A phrase I've adopted from a professor is "college is just an expensive learning experience." You are there to mature, make memories that will last a lifetime, and learn how to succeed out in the "real world."