Nichole
Take your time, and do your research.
Leticia
In a country whose financial stability is slowly declining, finding a college that you know you will receive the best education for a good price is the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a college. To the student I suggest they get involved in something they enjoy whether that be a intermeral sport, student government, or the book club. And always remember that we are blessed to have the opportunity to learn, it is a luxury, many people are not so fortunate. So always take advantage of the opportunities you will have to learn something new.
Michelle
To parents and students who are concerned about finding the right college and making the most of their college experience I would say that the most important thing is to find a school that you love. It will take a lot of searching, but once you find it, you know right away. As for the college experience, try as many new things as you feel comfortable with, but at the same time, try to step out of your comfort zone a little bit to meet new people and try these new things. You never know who you might meet! College is a time to make mistakes and learn from them, so go out and have fun!
Stephanie
The advice I would give to the parents or students to find the right college and then to make the most of the college exprience is to first get a tour of the campus and get a feel of what it offers, including the people. This will give a small understanding of how the school is oriented and if their focus is somewhere you/ or child could see them be involved with. Check out all the extra activities, talk to deens of the major you are considering and even talk to a regular student about the college. All fo these will help you get a detailed view of the school inside and out. And once you have been there for a semester, once school starts, you know if that is where you want to be or not.
Sahar
I advise all students and parents to not look into the school's name and tuition alone. The overall college experience and oppurtunities should surpass the cost of the tuition. If a student is going to dedicate 4 or more years at a university, visit the campus first! Talk to students and ask them what they like and dislike about housing, food, the teachers,etc. Diversity is very important as well. A diverse school is one that will exceed a student's experience further. Being exposed to new ideas and backgrounds can teach the importance of community and communication.
Alyssa
i would let students know that getting help from parents in important. Students tend to want to be independent and try to prove that they can do things by themselves; that is fine, but dont forget that there are always people that know more than you do and that can help.
Andrew
After the intitial online research, you need to "check it out". Walk around on the campus, see how it feels; can you see yourself walking here for the next several years? Check out the students; talk to them, join them for lunch and possibly monitor a class. Check out the administration offices and talk with the staff. See how you might fit with the cirriculum, options for your major, and the job-opportunities when you graduate. What size school suits your personality?
Pray about it and you'll know. Something will click and you'll know where you belong. There are so many schools that have good programs for your area of study, your interests and your geographical preference. Be sure to do your college-shopping, and then check it out. You'll know.
Attend an Orientation or introductory session. You'll meet people who you'll rely on the first several weeks of school, and may become your best friends for life. Colleges, universitys and your parents want you to succeed, so take advatage of the opportunities they offer. It's an exciting opportunity and experience. Check it out, then jump in with both feet!
Sara
Visit the campus before making your choice. It makes a world of difference.
Alex
Make sure that you don't judge a school on it's location. Check into what kind of activities and requirements the school has. Live on campus at least for the first year. Be open to meeting new people that you may have never been in contact with in your hometown. Get involved.
Gregory
For me, personally, the community of the school is very important. without a close community, your experience won't be as fulfilling.