University of Arizona Top Questions

College is a time for change and for defining yourself as an individual. In order to do that, a person needs to be willing to take risks. Go for a college that will provide you with something different that will challenge yourself as a person. Never let anything stop you from making a decision. If a particular college stands out, but appears to have its faults, try to be flexible. Money is difficult with the current economy, but is something that you can earn with time. The size of a school is also challenging, but both small and large schools have their benefits. Getting the most out of college involves experience. Be willing to try new things and to go forward without looking back. Contemplating how great high school was isn't going to change anything. You can never go back to high school, so make the best out of what is put in front of you.

When chosing a college the new student should think about what they really want in a new school. They should try and visit the campus and talk to students who are currently enrolled at that college. There are many aspects of college life that people sometimes overlook such as greek life, school athletic events, clubs, and the town or city that surrounds the campus. All aspects big or small should be weighed and considered before making a final decision. While parents should be involved they should be cautious not to pressure the student to go to a specific school because it is the student who has to live and experience their college or university of choice. College is said to be the best time of many peoples lives and it should be a decision that is taken seriously.

Definately visit the college campus before hand and consider things like reputation (academically and otherwise), distance, cost, climate, and size

Choose a college that you will be happy with - if you chose a school someone else wants, you will not be able to enjoy it. You'll work harder at a school you want to be at. Don't be afraid to take a year off, it gives you life experience... Don't be afraid to dive right in - it's easy to stay in the school mindset that way. Whatever you decide to do, be content with your decision and then get involved! Make the most of your experience - don't be afraid to ask question and speak up! You're paying for the school - use it!

My best advice I can give to students trying to find the right college is to simply have fun. You may have a plan or not have a plan for your life, and you don't have to. It is during these years of your life you learn who you truly are. What your likes and dislikes are? Who your friends are and who you would like to be? It may seem overwhelming and scary at times and you may feel tempted to panic and freak out. I suggest this often. It is the only way to keep yourself going. Take a break from an essay to watch TV, talk to a friend on how much you hate the assignment, take a walk, whatever. Keep yourself interested in your work. Take classes that interest you, not the ones that let you sleep in. Do what makes yourself into school, because you will spend a lot of your time cursing at the wall if you don't take something that interests you. College is your chance to experience and try out new things.

Cost is important.

Make sure, when you are choosing a college, to not only look at the degree program you are most interested in majoring in, but look at two or three alternate programs that may interest you. Most students change their minds about what they want to do, and it is important that if your first choice loses its appeal there are other options that you can succeed in and enjoy. I chose a school based on one program, and then when I lost interest I struggled to find other educational tracks that fit me. A lot of stress can be avoided if there are several choices that can make you happy. Finding the right balance in the size of the school is also important. Large schools often have more prestige, but make sure you don't have to sit on the floor for required large lecture classes. Check that there are enough classes offered for all students to get into, and see if specialized classes are not being cut from the schedule to make room for more large, general classes with a broader focus.

I direct the following to parents since they have the most prominent role in where their child goes to college. From my first year and a half of college, I've learned that living not too close or not too far from home (an hour and a half away) was the best decision I could have made. I kept in touch enough and knew I could count on home anytime I needed support since physically it was only so far away. Don't think you should send your child to USC over the University of Arizona because of its reputation. The $50,000 more spent in California really goes to the same Bachelor's Degree that looks the same on a resume. Be sure to direct them to a school where they can feel themselves and become more independent. Persuade your sons and daughters to go to the school that is surrounded by students who value their education and work for their future. Make sure the school has something that interests your child social-life-wise, whether they enjoy partying or hanging out watching Friends with classmates. An environment where they can enjoy life yet concentrate on studies is key.

I would recommend that a student visit many different campus along with their department of choice before choosing a school. Make sure all you financial needs are met before making a final decision. Choose a school with a low party/drinking reputation to insure a better education. It's important to become involved within the campus in your own way. Either by clubs, study groups, or employment. The semester goes by faster and more smoothly if you make at least one friend per class.

The best advice that I would give to students is to do what you believe is right. Find the college that suits you and that you will enjoy. Apply everywhere you are interested in so that you do not have regrets. You only get the college experience once so you need to follow your heart and make the most of it. Once attending that school, remember that first and foremost you are there to study and get an education. Work and study hard, but also make sure you are well balanced: you need a social life. Live in the dorms so that you can meet new people; step out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there, even if that means going to your neighbor in the dorms and introducing yourself. Take initiative and do what you know is right. To parents I would say listen to your children. They know themselves better than you do and they know what will make them happy. Trust them, be supportive, and let them know that you are always there for them. College goes by so fast and you never know that until you realize it is almost over.