jerrod
Allow your child enough space to grow internally and find out who they are.
Megan
Make sure the universities you are looking at include everything you want to get out of your college education: a degree from a well-respected university, research and internship opportunities, financial aid, extracurricular activities/social events, and memories and friendships that will last you a lifetime. When you finally get there, GET INVOLVED!!! I cannot stress to you how important your first year on campus will be and how much it will impact the rest of your college experience. I have found that the organizations and events I became involved with as a freshman have stayed with me through my senior year. You will be so thankful to have the many networking opportunities you create from getting involved in every aspect of your college career. Another piece of advice I would give is be persistent! The time old saying "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again!" comes to mind. Many of the goals you set yourself can be achieved if you never give in when it just seems too hard to continue on working towards your final destination. Just keep your focus on your goals and you will go far! Good luck and GO BUCKS!!!
Abbey
It's important to encourage your student to visit as many schools as possible and to be open minded about each of them. I found that going to a small school would not have been the right choice for me at all, but you might discover something entirely different! It's important that whatever choice you make to get involved right away. Being involved on campus and with other students holds you accountable to something other than yourself. You have more reason to do well in school and to stick with it even when the going gets tough. A close group of friends also makes a large school seem like home. What I liked about going to a big school was that I had so many opportunities yet I still had my small, close group that made college seem like home to me.
Andy
Make sure they your kid/student knows that college isn't only a place to find your career path in life, but it's the most growing up they will do in their life. These 4 years will not only determine the person they are, but the person they will become.
Yvonne
Just relax it is a big decision but it is also what you make of it you can go anywhere and get a piece of paper that tells you learned something but you have to work hard to know that you actually learned something. Make the most of wherever you go and you are always going to wish that you did something that's life just make sure that you try to those things you will always be happy you did. Not having a ton of loans is a great feeling it feels almost as good as getting your degree.
erin
While looking at the extra curriculars is important, you should really focus on what career you want to pursue and pick a school based on your states job market and career programs. I regret choosing a degree like psychology instead of nursing. Also, make sure you realize what classes you'll have to take, so you know how much work you're in for and can prepare for the harder classes and such. Good luck!
Ronald
First of all, do the research. College is expensive so you want to find a college that can offer you what you want - a good, solid education. There are good colleges all over the United States. Researching them is imperative.
Don't worry if you don't know what you want to be "when you grow up" when you first enter college. I am a Sophomore and just declared my major in Communications. There are advisors at each college that will help you and guide you to a decision that is right for you.
To make the most out of college, study hard but have fun at the same time. There is a way to do both without jeopardizing either. This may be the only opportunity you get to go to school so take advantage of it, don't waste it and look forward to it. It has been a great experience for me so far. I feel confident that when I leave school, I will be prepared for my future. I wouldn't trade this experience for anything and I'm excited at what my future holds.
Jennifer
Really investigate your career options based on your major. Do job shadows
Alex
Be open. Let your Son or Daughter choose. It's their life, not yours.
Akil
Choosing the right college entails considering many different factors. Price is of course one of the most important, but if possible, you should not make the price of a university the deciding factor. If you have already chosen a major, then look for schools with not only a good academic record in the field, but also a reputation for frequent interaction with faculty and solid researching opportunities. Research prospective schools' faculty members and schedule to meet with them if possible. The location and layout of a campus should also be an important factor. Tour the campus and see if you would like to spend at least for years of your life there. Even if you are undecided you can still consider other factors such as student teacher ratio, and the overall size and structure of a school. When you finally make your decision and begin taking classes, it will be to your benefit to establish a relationship with faculty and professors. This will not only help you after graduation when you need recommendations, but will also improve your overall experience as you get to share ideas with experts on in a particualr field. And last but not least, attend class!!