Jillian
Make sure that you are happy in the beginning and take control of your situation. If you don't like your room mate then switch rooms immediately. It will only get worse. Talk about date rape and the dangers of binge drinking. Try to find people you can be yourself with and concentrate on your studies. Watch out for junk food and the freshman 15!
Ashley
I would advise that a student pick his or her university based on the type of education being offered, and how it is being offered. If there are rumors about a specific university, chances are they are probably true. Choose a university that fits you best, and be sure to visit the university before making the final choice. Parents should encourage their children to do what their children want to do, and be sure to demonstrate there presence whenever their children fall; it will happen to everyone at one point in time. Remember, education is worth fighting for.
CorDarryl
The advice I would give to parents and to students about finding the right college is to search early and to research into the school before applying and look for enough money to support you financially. Another tip I would leave is to always look at academics to be high enough to support you as a career based student.
Jason
I would tell parents to closely observe both the campus community as well as the city community. I would tell students to find a college with a comfortable atmosphere and to research the caliber and compatability of the professors within their chosen major and minor. As a student you need a place to relieve stress and to get the greatest learning experience possible. Parents should also be wary of strechted thin Universities. Money becomes difficult to manage when much of it is going toward transportation. Finally, the most important that both parents and students should look closely into is that you MUST find the University that best suits your major, no matter the odds. There's simply no reason not to; never go for the path of least resistence. As a student, you need to search out that resistance and face it head on to make your dreams come true.
Cody
Apply to a lot of places!
Julie
The biggest piece of advice that I can give is that if at all possible, visit the University or College that you are prospecting to attend. In addition to this, sit in on several classes, stay in the dorms if possible, and ask questions to everyone (including Professors and students). Just because a University looks nice from the outside, doesn't necessarily mean the University is the right choice for you. Even though they may have the program you would like to be a part of, doesn't mean that's the school for you. Research is optimal in choosing the right school for you. One of the biggest things that people forget to look into is the stsudent body. These are the people you will be spending four years or more with, you want to know if you will be able to fit in and be able to experience making life long friendships.
Jessica
Apply for a lot of scholarships, and apply early. The finacial aid department doesnt give many opportunities for scholarships after you enter the college after high school, so start freshman year off with as much money as possible. Do not just buget school, and living expenses. Parking, sororities and fraternities and social dues are a major and unexpected hit to your walet.
Payal
I would advise them to make sure they know the type of environment at the university. Sometimes we assume that a university is great because it offers the facilities however without better facilitators there is no use of the facilities. Always make sure that you make the most of your time because there are so many extra-curricular opportunities that you must take advantage of them. Studying takes up so much of your time that you need a few friends and a couple fun activities so you can relax and enjoy attending college. However college is not just fun and games because it is the crucial standpoint in your life that will further determine the path to your future. Make the best of the offered resources and do well in class so you can increase your chances of a brighter future. Motivation, determination, and desire to learn are extremely necessary otherwise you will find college stressful and a burden. College is not a burden but just another step up the ladder towards your career.
Corey
Make sure you visit the campus before you make your choice. Don't be afraid to ask questions especially when it comes to financial aid and academic counsuling. These two things, if you know who/where to go for them, will make college a bit less stressful and allow you to focus on what matters; your school work! Fill out the FAFSA as early as possible! If have no idea what you want to major in, create a list of things that interest you , this will help you pick from the various programs offered by schools.
Alberto
Students, don't ever let anyone tell you that you can not do it; don't even let your parents say that. Take your time to think what you really want, or at least what you think you want at this point of time, and make your decision according to what you believe is right. If you make the wrong choice, it is not the end of the world, instead it is an opportunity to learn from your mistakes.
Ask for advice, let people help you out, but never let them discourage you. From now on, it is mostly about making your own choices, and taking full responsibility. Do your best to making the correct choices.
For a good college experience, all you need is organization. Get your work done, and then get your well deserved free-time as a reward.