Erin
The best advice I will give to students choosing their college is to visit the campus and do your research. The more you know about the campus, the more you will feel at home. Do not just take the standard campus tour; instead make your own adventure around campus and explore. Also, once you are at college, be open to everybody and everything. Be yourself because if someone does not like it, you never have to see them again! The greatest thing I proved to myself was that once my first year was over, I realized that I did not fail. I proved I was responsible with my time, my studies, and my new friends. New students are on their own for the first time and its scary to realize all these daily decisions are your own and that your life is completely your responsibility. So don't be scared and instead go out there and take the leap knowing that no matter how bad it may get, the experience will be unforgettable and you will end up a smarter and better person.
Evony
In order to find the right college and make the most of the college experience I would say it is most important and definitely necessary to look at the quality of education a student would recieve at the school. It is important to research the accreditation of the institution and other technicalities such as financial aid availability, class availability, parking permits and the reputation of the professors who teach there. It is important to look for a good advisory staff, as those individuals are the ones that will be guiding students throughout their college careers and the living environment is important as well-- highlighting features such as the safety of a campus, and the situations in dormrooms. It is also important to make sure there are many ways students can get involved, things such as clubs, teams, on campus jobs and intership opportunities can help students meet others and make new friends, which is something that will greatly enhance the college experience.
Elizabeth
When looking for the right college it is important to think of what you can handle. Some students are capable of being far away from home while others are not. When I chose the school I go to, I chose a school that was about 2 hours away from home. That way I had my independence but was still close to family. Also, can you handle rigorus academics or do you need a school that has a social life too? You will be miserable if you attend a school that does not offer any activities that you enjoy and overloads you with work. On the other hand, you want to consider how the name of your college will look on a resume. Choose a school that you can be proud of and say "Yes, I went there!" In terms of making the most of college, have fun and work hard. There is a delicate balance between the two, but when achieved you can get the most out of your experience. Don't forget, you do attend college to learn, so don't waste your time or money by not learning anything at all.
Barbara
I believe the most important thing for parents and students to consider when making a decision about college attendence if whether the student is really prepared to make the committment to accept the challenge of further education straight out of high school. Often, students who take a couple of years to work and experience life will appreciate the opportunity offered by higher education more than those attending because it is what their friends are doing or what their parents want them to do.
Michael
As long as people are not afraid to push themselves and discover what they are capable of, there is a college out there for everyone no matter what age. College teaches not only integrity and independence, but also whole new experiences in maturity and professionalism. This isn't a popularity contest and nobody cares about who you are and what you've done. What matters is what you are about to accomplish in your next 4+ years. There is no better way in building character and meeting lifelong friends than in college. Yes, for parents and students, education does come with a price. But it is a price that is very worth investing into for its rewards and exeprience are immeasurable in the end. Eveyrone's college experience is different, but I have yet to meet a single person who did not regret going to college ,nor the experiences they had during college. My best tip to students out there is to never be afraid to try and push for things you never have had before. Never give up and keep only one goal in mind; to come out a professional, and a better person.
Alease
Just go somewhere where you or your child would feel they would be able to learn the most from, and have the best time. I chose U of A because it is 2 hours away from my hometown, so I can still go visit my family often. I have many friends that go here also, and they help me with my studies, and honestly, I love it here!
Erin
The right college is a hard thing to find considering there are more than 1 right colleges for some people while there may not be for others. The right college is all about what satifys your personal goals and needs. An enviornment where you feel comfortable and confident in yourself. The school should fit your criteria, not you fitting their criteria. You only live once and everyone should make the most of their college experience. I have an outlook on life of having no regrets, there is no harm in trying as many things as you can at least once. Fortunately, I am lucky enough that my parents are able to put me through the college of my dreams, but as apart of growing up one must realize that they can't depend on their parents forever. Paying for your own college experience is a learning experience and you should try to get a taste of the real world. Apply for as many activities and groups as you can. College is meant to help you grow and develop a strong base for the rest of your life.
Astin
I would encourage parents and/or students to research a variety of institutions, even those that may seem to competitive or expensive to attend. Going to the college that is a best fit, will undoubtedly be reflected in the grades earned in courses, the quality of a career after graduation, and the happiness the student will receive from this experience. Sacrafice now will lead to returns in the future, nothing worth it is ever easy.
Itzel
I would tell parents and or students to take into consideration the size of the school, the proximity to home, and affordability. To make the most out of your college experience you need to really get involved. It's not all about school work. Getting into activities and sports is also part of the whole experience!
Meghann
Find someplace that you know you will fit into. Make sure its has the academic options you are looking for, as well as the social life you desire. Don't choose a school purely on cost or where your friends go. This is your life, and you should get as much out of it as you can! College is supposed to fun, rewarding, and challenging, so enjoy it! It is important to get involved in clubs and sporting events!! You will become so filled with pride, and enjoy it even more!