Elizabeth
I know that there is about to be a big transition in the way your life is running right now but try to relax. It's not as bad as you think it will be. College is a great experience and I know you're going to love it. There are things that you will have to get used to but once you do you will really be able to jump into your life and really make a difference for yourself. Be sure to stay open minded because if you do then college is going to be one of the best experiences you have. Try to always give it your all because in the end, if you can be proud of yourself, it will be a job well done.
Cody
I would tell myself that college life is an amazing time and you meet all kinds of people and make life-long friends. I would also say that college isn't for everyone due to the fact of financial reasons, college environment, stress of everyday life, and that person's work ethic. I would recommend that I apply for financial aid and get as many scholarships and grants as possible. Also another important thing I would remind myself of is to keep good grades and be involved in college. Other important things you should think about is how is the financial status of that university, what kind of entertainment there is to do on or near campus, how are the living arrangements on and off campus, and what facilities the college or university offers for extra curricular activities such as a gym for working out, playing sports, or running. Last but not least I would encourage you to talk to your professors if you have any questions at all and know they are there to help you. I hope my advice can benefit you some way or another in the future and good luck with your decisions about college.
Catherine
When I was a high school senior, one of the most exciting things to me about college was the freedom that comes with it. I thought it would be amazing to schedule my classes when I wanted, and to only come to class when I felt I needed to. And the transition to college has been very liberating for me (I love it), but I wish I could go back in time and give my high-school self this advice: Firstly, go to every single class that you possibly can. Whether it's "review day" or not, skipping class is an extremely addictive and harmful habit. When you regularly go to class, you feel more confident (rightly so) and you get better grades. Beyond that, you're more likley to develop relationships with your peers and professors. Second piece of advice: go to bed early! This makes it much easier to resist the urge to sleep in, and it helps you focus throughout the day. Establishing the routine can be difficult, but once implemented it's well worth it.
Dallas
Make sure you visit the campus before actually choosing a school. Also talking to the students who attend the college would be a good idea as well.
Tucker
Go to the campasses and see what feels best for you. Talk to students there and get their feel on it. Check what degrees and majors the college is offering.
Jamie
The biggest advice I would give to prospective college students and their parents is to visit many colleges that you think you would want to attend. Never just go to one. I went to other colleges and it helped me narrow down the list of things I wanted in a college. Also look very hard at the financials. Going to an expensive private school to get a degree that only produces low paying jobs isn't pactical. In these tough financial times you want to make absolutely sure that you don't enter your adult working life with more debt than you can handle. College is about having fun but ultimately it is about your future and you have to look at the education that you will recieve instead of the social aspects of the four years you will be there. Once you have decided on a college I would recommend that you get involved in activities quickly. Most friendships are formed the first few weeks of school, and getting involved will allow you to meet new people and will ease the transition of home to college life.
Cory
Students should take the time to really evaluate what it is they want out of college. In all honesty, a student can probably find what they want on any campus; I myself go to a school not renown for their academic standards, yet I still enjoy research and academic competiton amoung the science department's more elite students and professors. However, a student may want the best for their own higher education, and should not settle for anything less. You only get the chance to do this properly once.
Hillary
I think that finding a college that suits you and your individual needs has become easier in the recent years. Schools are able to post pictures of campus life, clubs and educational programs, as well as information on university websites. I would encourage you to find a school that has a specialty that you are interested. It is beneficial to enter a great program that is noticed as a leader among other schools.
Don't give up when it gets tough. There are many programs that you would do well in that take extra work and practice. If you have a dream of attaining a degree and going on to a certain profession, give it your all. You don't have to be naturally brilliant to be an excellent physicist, surgeon or engineer. Those programs all take hard work and that is where many people stop. Utilize the on-campus tutoring if you have trouble. Even the smallest of universities are fully equipped to help every student succeeed.
Finally, being active in campus life can take a good college experience and turn it to a great one. Finding your place on campus can transform your college years!
lacey
To make the best of it and study hard
Brittany
Visit the college campus to make sure it is the right fit. Once you get there, do not procrastinate so you can keep on top of paperwork and homework. There are a ton of scholarships but you have to put in the work to find and fill out for different scholarships such as this one. You never know, you could be one of the lucky ones and receive assistance with your education. Stay motivated because the end will be here before you know it!