Olga
Don't always believe what people say about the college in terms of a bad reputation because if you base your decision on just that advice, you can really miss out on a great college education and experience. (Don't believe everything you are told, because it might not be true)
Josette
Do not pick a school just because your friends are going there. I only knew two people who were attending the same school as I was and I don't even spend time with them. Pick a school that you want to go to and you will make plenty of friends when you get there.
ben
When I came here I was a transfer student, and came in the spring as a Junior. The experience, I must say is a LOT different than someone coming in as a Freshman and staying for 4 years. You will make more friends, stay in groups longer, and build different relationships. I will spend one full year here, and will not have the same 4 year experience as others. When picking colleges think about if you will have to transfer or not. It was cheaper and better academicly for me, but in a social sense it is a totally different experience.
Bradley
Get involved in something you really care about and make friends with the people in that group. They usually have something special in common with you. Don't sit around in the dorm and wait for friends to find you. Make friends even if you feel shy about it because they will be there for you when you need them the most.
Sean
Look not only into the students choosen majors area but into the campus and its surroundings as a whole. Theres a lot more to experience than just classes. Look into their hobbies and interests as well.
Jene`
Make sure the schools have your exact major and the different sports and programs that you would be interested in taking. Parents, don't buy your child's books prior to school starting. Always wait until after the first class to get the books because even the teachers might tell your child that the some of the books required for the class will not be used. Students, make sure that you take in every experience that you go through and learn from it. Going to college is an experience that many would like to endure but some don't have the option. And ALWAYS, ALWAYS try your best.
Kiri
When making your college choice, make sure you visit as many schools as you can before deciding where you want to go. A picture is worth a thousands words, but you won't really know what a school is like until you step onto its grounds and meet some of its students. There's a feeling you get when you step onto the campus of the school where you belong. Once you get that feeling, you'll know that this is the place you belong. And don't be surprised if you get to school and it's not as wonderful as you want it to be. There's a lot of adjustment involved in your first semseter of college. You'll be lonesome, overwhelmed, and homesick. But one day, everything will click into place and you'll have a great time and an exceptional college experience.
Jenell
make sure its the right price and the right place for your child
Joshua
My advice would be to reasearch, visit, explore your interests for a possible vocation, and then follow your heart. Do NOT choose your school because your friends are going there, or because it's got a big name. If you rely on those things you are likely to be disappointed. Do the best you can to find what inspires you, and then look for schools that offer a quality program to give you knowledge in that area. Next consider WHERE you feel comfortable and relaxed. Perhaps it's in the city with lots of action, perhaps it's in a more rural setting. To be AT your best, you should be in an environment where you FEEL the best. Make sure the distance you travel TO your school is right for you as well. If you will be returning home often for commitments or family -- then factor that in when you choose your school. WHEN you go to college be open to new people and new experiences. Live in the moment because it's the BEST TIME of your LIFE. Remember, though, that you are there foremost to LEARN and ACHIEVE your dream. Keep your eye on the prize always!
Jessica
Parents and students, especially students, know who you are! What type of person are you? This will determine the type of college you attend. For example, if you are interested in the sciences but do not know what path to take, find a school that has a great science program. More than likely, they will have many opportunities and knowledgeable advisors that can help you find your niche. That brings me to another point. Some schools, usually larger ones, have advisors or professors that have little communication with students outside of class. Some students need attention and some may thrive in a highly competitive, cut throat type of school. In my experience, when advisors personally know you, they are more compassionate about your performance and your success as a student and future professional.
After finding the right college for you, get involved. In order to get the most out of the money you are spending for tuition, first, use every resource available. This includes the library, recreation center, tutoring center, counseling center health and wellness, the options are endless. Secondly, get active in extra-curricular activities, this is the best way to make friends and enjoy being a college student.