Jacqueline
It's not always about what you've done in high school or what you studied. College is a completly different place. Just join in and enjoy the life that your new college experience gives you!
Nicole
In order for your child to find the right college I would definitely recommend visiting the college campus for the weekend to get an idea of the campus culture to make sure it is a right fit for your child. I would also suggest not pushing or forcing your child into a school that is not his or her first choice. This will drastically alter the experiences your son or daughter will have and could potentially ruin your child's college experience. Instead I would recommend letting your child make this important decision on their own since it will affect their entire life.
Andi
Firstly, apply to as many colleges as you can! Get a variety, as your mind can change your senior year. I know mine did. A lot of people freak out about loans and having to pay for college, but trust me, its worth every penny you have to pay back! I know I'd rather get the college experience I want and take out loans than go to a college I don't like and still have to pay them money. As for making the most out of college, its all about jumping right in. Don't worry about a few less-than-stellar grades, schools usually have grade replacement programs in place. Get involved as soon as possible, as you will meet amazing people during your four years in school.
Stephanie
Make sure you visit the campus because visiting really helps you make a decision. Take into consideration what you want to major in or the future career you're interested in because each school has their strengths and weaknesses and not all programs are available or as good as another school. Get involved any way you can, whether it be with a sport/intramurals, fraternity/sorority, clubs, dorm life, etc. because that's the best way to meet new people and make friends. Make sure you stay focused on your academics because what you do in college really IS going to affect your life after you graduate. Have fun and don't stress out too much!
Laatra
Students should carefully think about a couple of things before attending college. One of the most important things in college is the size of the college. Your experience will be ultimately different depending on the size of school. Perhaps you feel more comfortable in a larger setting with a teacher lecturing and 300 other students taking notes. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a calmer environment, with a classroom that offers a discussion-type setting, and more time with professors. Another important aspect in college is that of networking; networking can make the college experience a thousand times more enjoyable! Plus, you are destined to make friends for life. When thinking about networking tie it in to the bigger picture; what field of work would you like to pursue after your college career? Think of various places you could see yourself working in the future. And then think of all the people you would be able to connect with that have ties to the area of study you?d like to work in, or the places you?d like to work in. Most Importantly keep this in mind: college is to learn and to enjoy!
Kimberly
Find a college that has a good number of recognized program, in case you chose to switch degrees. Look for a campus that has a feel to it that you like. After all, you'll be spending the majority of your time there. If you can visit as many different colleges/universities as possible so that you have the ability to make a decison based off of personal experience; not just pictures. For parents I would give the advice to give opportunity for their child to explore what they want, if there is some reason they like a college that you don't, then rationalize it with them and understand that maybe there is something that is drawing them there for a reason. And know that each child is different, and one school may not work for all your children.
Victoria
Finding the right college goes along with making the most of the college experience. Honestly, I am not sure if I have chosen the right University. I can not say that I know the definition of a "right college" because it simply depends on the person. My advice to high school students currently applying to college is to find a university that will make him/her most successful. I would not suggest choosing a university that will be too hard, or too easy. Choose a college that is demanding andchallenging, but not overwhelming. As for parents, I believe that the parents should support the student as much as possible. In order for the student to make the best out of college, the student will need advice from the parents. If the parents are willing to help pay for some college, the student should select a university that is reasonably priced to accomodate the family. Both the parents and the student should discuss finances together. Overall, it would be beneficial to select a college in a location that you are most comfortable with. Remember, college is going to be your home for the next four years. Good Luck!
Stefanie
Go as far as you can go, it makes you grow quicker.
blaire
start planning finacially early. get involved withyour program and don't be afraid to go outside of your comfornt zone; that's usually where you'll end up finding exactlt who you really are.
Tyler
Its a great campus. Just realize its a big school with big classes and many gened classes. Some teachers seem to care more about there research then teaching,.