Caleb
Concerning finding the right college, I simply suggest that you go with your gut. Most of the time you will discover that you are happiest there. As for the college experience, I suggest that you get out into the campus community and involve yourself. If you keep yourself busy with others on campus, you will never get bored. Also, keep on top of all of your assignments sot hat you can go out and have fun when you want to instead of being rushed to finish a paper.
Brett
Start researching your possibilities early and apply to your school choices as early as possible. Once accepted to a school, join as many clubs, sports, ect. as possible, just don't forget to study. Get help with your coursework as soon as you need it, teachers are more able to help you when you ask for help early. Work hard but have fun.
Zack
A student discusses her desire to have known how difficult certain college classes are before arriving at college.
Brian
The greatest advice I can give in regards to picking the right college is to go to a larger sized school. Larger schools have so much more to offer and the students get exposed to many more things in life than they ever thought possible. That applies to all aspects of a student's life. At large schools you get a chance to be a part of those crazy parties you see in the movies, or at the tailgates you see on ESPN during College Football Game Day. You can tell your friends about your wild dorm stories when you are home on winter and summer breaks. You get more chances to meet the most brightest and influential people on this earth. You get to see the true meaning of what its like for a school to have tradition and school spirit. You quickly find that there is always someone near that is thinking the same great thing as you, "It's only 4 am, lets order a pizza!" And finally, before you go to sleep at night you proudly whisper to yourself, "Damn I love this place!" That's when you know you have made the right choice.
Lori
The best advice I can give to a parent and/or student about finding the right college is: RESEARCH. Your college should reflect your personal interests and beliefs, and you have the time to thoroughly research every possibility available to you. If not, make the time. This is important. Never rush into a decision of which college to attend. You only (generally) get this opportunity once, to set aside four years of your life for a great education, and you should do it at a school where you feel comfortable and sure of yourself. Education is extremely important, but so is enjoying yourself and your decision. Visit as many colleges as you can manage before choosing which ones to apply to. Talk to anyone available that can provide a detailed account of their experience or knowledge of the school. Know your university and its campus inside and out, because it will be a huge aspect of your life. Never underestimate your opportunities or forego your dreams for any reason; anything is possible if you come at it from the right direction. There are plenty of people willing to help you at this time in your life, LET THEM.
Eryn
Finding the right school is a matter of finding what would make you comfortable. I went to the largest high school in my home state that was packed with school spirit which I loved. Naturally, I want the same thing in college. I attend one of the largest schools in the country with world- renowned school spirit. In addition to your highschool comparison, visiting is probably the most important thing you can do. You get a sense of peace and euphoria when you find that perfect campus for you. It says "I'm home!" Afterall, this will be your home for the next 4 years. It is crucial to get a feel for the people while you are there. And most importantly, your campus of choice must have your major. My school offers over 170 majors, so if you are like I was as an incoming freshman and are initially uncertain of your career path, variety is key. There were so many resources available to help me find my perfect fit.
Laura
Starting your junior year in high school, it is good to visit several college campuses you might be interested in attending. Check out colleges on days students are attending classes so you can talk to current students to see what they really think of their school. Definitely eat in their cafeteria! If you have an idea of what course of study you want to pursue, look for campuses that specialize in your major. If possible, talk to a staff member in your area of interest. Find out what reach school requires academically. Inquire about scholarships.
You should also be taking the ACT or SAT as many times as you need to get the highest score possible. That is a huge factor in college acceptance and scholarship awards. There is software available to practice skills you need to do better on those tests.
When you have chosen your school, make friends with your advisor and listen to his/her advice on your courses. If you attend a large campus, take the time to find academic buildings before you start class, but especially all the fun places on campus. Be considerate toward your roommate. He/She may become your best friend!
Daniel
My adivce for people going to college is that you should know what you want. Write all of your ideas on paper of the perfect college. Make sure to explore other college campus to see what is available. After you have accumulated enough data about different schools then make your decision on what you are looking for in a school. Then once you know what you are looking for you are going to make it a lot easier on yourself. There is a lot of work involved in choosing what school to attend. This is a very important decision, after all you don't want to waste four years of your life in a miserable environment. You want to make sure to attend a university that will not only allow you to experience life, but to allow you to do anything that you want to do.
Josh
My best advice for someone seeking a beneficial college experience is to consider the schools reputation. If you are having difficulty settling on one of your accepted applications, take a visit to one or two campuses, preferably when school is in session. You have the opportunity to interact with campus life, visualize yourself becoming a part of it (or not), and discovering if it's a comfortable atmosphere for you to spend 4 years or more of your life.
Staci
Check the campus and cost. It isn't what it seems and you need alot of money. Campus is like a small city with alot of buildings.