Pacific University Top Questions

Parents don't force your child to attend a school that you want them to go to let them decide because even though you are paying for their education , they are the ones who are attending. If they don't like the school then the cances of them doing well are not likely. Another thing is try going to college knowing a general area of what you want to take up because instead of wasting your years not knowing adn deciding later and fiding out that your courses you took don't fall into your major... you can always change your mind later. Also make new friends because the friends you make in college will be your life time friends. And lastly Parents it is college you know what it is like to get away from home and have freedom for the first time, don't be to hard on your children because after your freshman year you realize how important it is to do well in school. =) College is one of the best times of our lives so make memories.

So far being a college student has opened up alot of opportunites as well as stuffed difficulties in my face. I would recommend strongly to both the future college student and their parents to look closely at each of the chosen schools. Don't be afraid to send out for multiple brochures and info flyers about the respective schools you are eying. When you narrow down your schools visit them. Learn about the programs they offer, different clubs and organizations, and even sports. Ask lots of questions about the life on and off campus. And be sure to ask about the work load of school work. When searching for schools do it soon, possibly your junior year of HS! You don't want to feel rushed in this important step, so take your time and choose wisely. Once in college do your work on time and prepare for your tests and classes ahead of time. Soing this will insure you to relax when it is "crunch time." And go and experience as much as you can. Go out with friends, visit new places, meet new friends, and again enjoy all of it because it only happens once.

First, I would suggest that a student chooses a college that is close to home, so that he or she can stay at home and save thousands in housing expenses that will likely have to be paid back in student loans. If this option is not available, then I would suggest finding someplace to live that is off campus but is reasonably priced. It seems that there are fewer distractions when you live off campus and more time to focus on your education. Next, make sure you talk to junior and senior students at the college you are interested in and see what their opinion is of the college and why. One way you can do this is by talking to students in the small cafes often located throughout the campus. This will require boldness on your part but the students? feedback that will help you decide if that college is a good fit for you. Finally, do not be ashamed to ask for help from the various services available. For example, when you are having difficulty with a particular subject, avail yourself of the tutoring services offered. Good planning, communication and humility will make your college career a success.

I advise taking finacial aide, campus life and culture into consideration. Financial aide is something that everyone takes into consideration, but always think about the amount of time that you might be staying there and all of the things you might possibly be getting into (ie. campus life, friends, greek life etc.) Campus life is more important than youd think. Are you one to stay inside or outside? Do you want to be around people or not? You think you know, but remember: this is college. Give yourself a chance to change and grow. Surround yourself around the things you want to possibly become and possibly be involved with. Culture is something that sometimes people miss. Do you want to expereince other cultures or stay true to your own? Will you be able to handle stepping out of what you know and into a world of change? Basically, take into consideration what youre comfortable with, what you want to experience and what you hope to be... and at the same time, dont cut yourself short or spread yourself thin. Keep in mind how much your education means to you as well as how you dont want to be in debt.

The only advice I would give to parents and/or students is to find the right college that will give you what you want academically. As an athlete, I've seen friends tear ACL's and blow out their backs only to find that they weighted their entire collegiate existence on sports. While sports do and can enrich a college education, the first and foremost importance is and always should be academics. Pick the school that will validate your academic interests and the rest is sure to follow.

TOUR campuses and get a feel because if you don't feel right on the first visit, it isn't the right school. Ask a lot of questions and be honest about what you want to know; it is likely that your tour guide is a student and can give first-hand experience answers.

If you are able to visit the school and try to get a feel for what it is like to live there just go with the one that fits your personality best.

Always visit the college before you decide to attend that school, if the school offers an Orientation program you should particiapate its a great way to make friends.

Have your children start looking into colleges and scholarships early. It's never too early to begin looking, and the earlier you look, the easier the process will be when it comes down to actually having to choose a college.

When looking for colleges it's important to stress the environment with which you intend to surround yourself. College is very much about getting an education, but it's also about building connections with people and a school that you wish to affiliate yourself with for the rest of your life. Those connections can develope into friendships, career oppertunities, and long lasting relationships. Go to a school that you can feel proud of. Surround yourself with people that you can get fulfilling experiences out of. Don't let anyone restrict you. If you set your sights on something, don't take no for an answer. Make your goals happen. Most importantly, have some fun. If you're too busy focusing on your education and career, a good part of your life will slip past you. Think about why you want to go to college and what you want to get out of the experience. Make your decisions based on that answer.