Jocelyn
Listen to your heart and do not go somewhere just because your friends are. You make so many new friends at college. Diside first if you want a big school or small one and then just visit a ton. You will know which one is right for you. Also, make sure you apply to more than one. Back up colleges are a must do.
Lauren
The advice I would give to students about finding the right college is; don't pick a college based on your where your parents went or where they would like you to go, and experience the college yourself. My parents went to very large and well-known universities. I wanted to attend a large university because of them. However, I ended up choosing my school based on their varsity soccer program and their scholarship offer. North Georgia wasn't my first choice but I found something there I wouldn't have found at a large school. There is more comradery, a relaxing atmosphere and a more initmate feeling. I would also advise students to visit the campus and attend a couple of classes when deciding on a college. I believe a two day visit is enough to get a feel of the campus. Experience how you will get from the dorms to the classes, what the food is like that the school provides, what the class sizes are, and the sense of school pride that you recieve from the students. Anyone can tell you how a school seems, but experiencing it yourself will help you make the best choice.
Kris
Just go with your gut. College is your chance to live out your dreams, and the first opportunity to do what is truly right for the student. Be idealistic.
Andrew
Take a tour of the campus first and get to know some students to get the real life experiences first before enrolling.
Krista
I would tell parents and students to go visit the college and see what it has to offer. I would tell them to talk to current students and listen to them, but know that everyone's experiences will be different. I would also tell them to research the schools he/she is interested in going to to find out what kind of scholarships are offered at the school and whether or not the school has the major the student wants. I would tell them to also look into the activities the school offers and the quality of the academic programs. I would also suggest that if the school of choice is expensive, to go to a cheaper school to get the major classes out of the way; just make sure that the credits transfer. When choosing between colleges, the student should go where he/she is most comfortable and where the academics are good and afordable. They should also go where they will have activities to plug into, so they will make lasting freindships and enjoy their time at college.
Kathryn
When you go to college you are given a fresh start. I think the best thing to do is forget about high school and that person that you were. I suggest you come to college with an open mind. As a freshman you should get involved and try new things even if it seems scarey. With each new challenge you grow and become stronger and more confident. College is not really about classes, finding a husband/wife, or getting a great job. College is really about life. I can promise that it is going to be hard and at times you are going to want to quit, but you will gain perserverance which will last for the rest of your life. So when you say good bye to your parents on that first day, sit back and enjoy the ride to becoming the person you always wanted to be.
Brittany
I think that you should research colleges that fit your major, and then narrow your choices. Decide how far away you want to live from home and the amount of money you are willing to spend on your education each year. Then go and visit each college and based on the activities you enjoy, the size of the school you want, and the kind of housing available, you can decide which college is best for you. When you arrive at college, make sure to get involved and meet lots of new people. Don't lock yourself in your room and study all the time, make sure you have fun too.
Jonathan
Find a school that fits the students personality. I wanted a school with small class sizes and that is exactly what i found at North Ga. When it comes to the college experience, get involved. The more things you are involved in the more fun you will have and the more people you will meet.
Autumn
Finding a school thats right for you takes time and research! Visit as many schools as you can! Choose the one that you feel most at home at! Getting involved is the best way to make the most of your college experience. Joining clubs and other organizations allows you to meet new people and gives you a chance to participate in enjoyable activities.
Josh
Finding the right college is entirely up to the student. If the student likes a small town feel then he or she should select a private or smaller college. In this type of setting the student can engage with others and interact better with the teachers, however if the student prefers a bigger university in a bigger city, then he or she should select a college that is a public university in a major city. In this type of setting, competition is fierce and you are just another face. However, it is the students choice to what he or she prefers, and whatever situation they feel comfortable is the one the student wil succeed the most.