Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Top Questions

I suggest going to a community college first because it is cheaper and there you can find out in time what you really want to do in life and possibly get a higher GPA and credits for the college you find that you want to go to.

Save money before you graduate highschool so you don't feel like you're drowning in a pool of your own vomit by the time you have to cough up tuition. And don't fill out "easy surveys" given to you by complete strangers who say you'll get a free pizza. It's a credit card application aka: scam. The monkeys will steal your money.

The reputation of the school can help or hurt a lot when you're looking for a job, but don't pick a school that you'll be miserable at just because they have a good rep. It's just not worth it, and you're more likely to get good grades if you have friends at school and enjoy going to class.

Make sure and do your homework - investigate as much as you can. Look into each and every aspect of what your child could do.

Join clubs and get involved with your college, it is great for networking and understanding your carrer.

Choose somewhere you can get involved and meet like-minded people. It won't be an experience worth noting in your life if you meet no one at school that you can talk to for the rest of your life.

Talk with someone who graduated from that school, the alumni. They are the only people who will give you a srtiaght answer about what to expect and what you need to know. No tour, nor teacher, nor phamplet can provide you with accurate information.

Campus visit early spring, apply for campus job, apply early, parent stay in contact with the student counselor, saving account of at least $1500 for emergency. Be prepared for miscellaneous expenses, books are very costly. Get involve in the community. Stay focus in school, student #1 priority is be educated.

I would urge your children, from day one. My father pushed me to know exactly what I wanted to do right out of high school; not going to college was not an option. Thus, I applied to one school, one program, and am finishing school in the least amount of time (and money!) possible fro my chosen career. Make sure to really let your children decide their own future. Keep an open mind in whatever your child may bring up as a career option; they may change their mind! And most of all, love them for whatever and where ever they may choose; you are their parents, caregivers, friends, and soul guidance in life. Your love is what will guide us through the rest of these years.

Be sure the financial aid is really there before enrolling.