Jenny
Start looking at colleges in your junior year of high school. Look at large universities and small, private schools. You may think that you know you want to go to an all girls school, and then end up loving the biggest university in your state. Find a college that has activities you enjoy such as a drama club, or intramural baseball. Make sure the school you're looking at has a major that you want. Don't go to a specific college just to be with your boyfriend/girlfriend or best friends. You'll make new friends. College is what you make it to be. If you go with a bad attitude, you probably won't enjoy it. Make it fun. Join a club, volunteer in the campus's community service activities, and try something new. You won't regret it!
Sarah
Finding the right college should not be a stressful experience. It took me no time at all to find my "perfect fit." I was quickly accepted and recieved a fellowship in the Journalism program. However, when it became clear that attending the private university would be impossible given my financial resources, I settled for my current university. Interestingly, settling was the best choice I have ever made. Although it was several of the things I wanted least in a college--large and close to home--I quickly grew to love it as I learned all it had to offer. That is truly what making the most out of college is all about. No matter where you end up, there is something for you. It is your responsibility to reach out and find it! I easily found activities and clubs to immerse myself in, and I made many friends. Although while in high school, I stressed and worried about finding and being able to attend the university that I thought was my "perfect fit," I see now that in an academic community, it is easy to make the university your own "perfect fit."
Ashley
I would tell students that if they want to get into their dream college, then you have to work hard, from freshman year of high school. Also, go on college visits, and make sure that they specialize in your major.
Jessica
Ask questions and find what works for you.
David
I believe that, in the end, it truly does not matter which university a student attends, but what the student makes out of it. NC State was not my first choice, but I went to Raleigh, NC, with a positive attitude and decided I would make the best of my situation. It turned out NC State was a great place for me to be. If I had gone in with a negative outlook, it's possible I would've transferred and missed out on a wonderful experience. Most universities offer many opportunities for a student to get involved and become engaged in the journey toward discovering a genuine passion. I challenge all future college students to seek out those opportunities and put their best foot forward - you might be surprised at what you discover.
Sarah
Sarah tells us about what she wishes she knew before coming to NCSU.
Sarah
Brandon tells us what he wished he knew when coming here