Juno
My advice is to take into consideration what you enjoy doing right now and if you want to learn more about it. If your focus is what you might need later in the future, I think a person might end up wasting valuable time doing useless courses that won't satisfy him. When I say satisfy, I mean being happy and content with the path he has chosen. So the best thing to do is to take a step back from life, before choosing a college, reflect on the physical activities that he enjoys now, and decide which college to go to based on those activities. Do not, aboslutely do not go to a school that offers a lot of hyped up image. I think a lot of students fall for that hooplah. Go to a school that will allow you to grow within your interest. When reflecting on what college is right, be specific. Don't just say, "Oh, I love reading." But about what?? So that way, the basic criteria for a good college that fits a personality is built. Then what matters next is actually getting in to the colelge that offers everything in the criteria.
Stephanie
Be sure to do your research in finding the best college for you. If it's within your means, definitely visit the school and get a feel for what it's like. Sit in on a class, walk around campus, or have lunch with a student. Once you find the right college and start school, get involved in extra-curricular activities and meet new people. You are the most important person in determining what your college experience is like, so don't leave it up to other people to make your life fun. Seek out activities you enjoy and invite others. Only you can make your college experience as fun or as boring as you want.
Lia
. For the parents of future college students I would advise you to let your child make their own mistakes. They are out of the womb and comfort of the household, and it is literally their time to shine. Let them make mistakes and learn through their own experiences. Let them know that you support them in all that they do, because during this time of adjustment they need all they support that they can get. Be there for them, help them in this new walk of life that they will only experience once in their life.
For future college students I would encourage them to make the most out of their experience in college. You are only in college for so long, and after that it's the real world. College is your last chance to get out of your shell, find yourself and become your own. I would advise you to get out there, join clubs, play a sport and meet new people. It is better to live your life doing, then wishing that you have
So get out there. Live, laugh and experience all that college has to offer!
Graham
The first and most important question is: Are you going to college because you feel you're obligated to? College is a hell of a commitment, both mentally and financially. Choosing the right school should not only make sense based on your financial and educational needs, but on a sense of value and belonging. Students are happy and productive when they feel they meld in their environment and make a difference on those around them. That's not to say that this comes automatically, it takes time and effort, but getting the sense of a school through visits and interactions with professors and students can often be the determining factor in a student's enrollment decision. Once you've found the right school, take advantage of everything you can; pursue your studies, but find at least two extra-curriculars to thrive in: there's something for everybody. Be open, take risks, spend a semester abroad and take everything in as you go.
Lee
Find a school that emphesises in a topic that the student is interested in. If your good in science, in doesnt make sense to attend a school that is known for science. The school must interest and help stimulate the student to work hard towards their goals. The student should feel like that they want to go to this certain school, not feel obligated. Motivation is the biggest factor in being able to achieve ones goals. The school must interest you, stimulate your mind, and motivate you to achieve. School should also be fun. Make sure it is in a area you would think you would enjoy. If you dont like rain and cold, dont go to the rain and cold. That might be a huge downer.
Michaela
I would suggest visiting the campus you, or your child, are interested in attending school at, and if possible sitting in on a class within the subject that you, or your child are possibly interested in studying. Upon getting to school I would suggest branching out and finding a group on campus with similar interests to your own and building a group of friends from that. Try to get involved in things early.
Trixy
Students:
Pick a college that you feel will help you to get the most enjoyable experience possible, but will help you in the future as well. For instance, my college is small enough where I get the attention I need should I need help with academics. And the size helps me to meet and greet a lot of unique people who I feel influences me in everyday life, and helps me to grow as a person. That is, as long as you are willing to put yourself out there to meet those people. The academic level here is helpful as well, and most of the graduates graduate knowing where they're going next. All those factors should play a part in you deciding where you want to attend college.
Parents:
Talk with your child about where they want to go and why because in the end, its your child's decision. Financial assistance is always helpful, but in the end you should measure it to the college's academic level and how they can help your child. And always have an open mind about your child's college experience, they're meeting new and different people everyday.
Rebecca
Look for a college that has the same core values that you yourself have. If you think it is important to have a close relationship with those who are teaching you, then definately pick a small school, like Pacific University. Decide what you want to get out of going to college, not just what you want to major in, before you choose what university to attend. To save money, it is a good idea to complete all pre-reques. (or about the first 2 years of school) at a community college, and then go to a university to finish your bachelor's degree. Don't be discouraged by private school tuition. They may be "costly" but they also have a lot of money to give and are usually more than willing to give it in order for you to attend their institution. Most of all, have fun in college, it only lasts a short time and then you're "out in the real world", so to speak. So live it up, but do take your classes seriously, and you willl learn much about life and yourself.
Kristen
Don't base your college choice on where your friends are going. you need to choose the college that is right for you, otherwise you're not going to be happy . There is a college out there for everyone, you just have to be willing to go find it.
Ashley
When trying to find the right college or university it is very vital to find a place that will have the things you wish to have both academically and socially. It varies on person to person but the parents should be supportive of the students chocies and the students should weigh all of their options before selecting the perfect school.