University of California-Santa Barbara Top Questions

I suggest that parents and students alike first establish their goals and interests in college. Since there is a great variety of colleges out there, it is important that they know exactly what it is that they are hoping to accomplish by attending college. Some colleges are far better suited for certain people than others. It is important for prospective students to determine what kind of setting they will thrive best in. For example, some schools are smaller, which means that students will generally get more individual attention. However, this also means that there is not much variety in terms of majors. This type of institution is ideal for someone who knows exactly what they want to study and hopes to achieve particular help from their faculty. On the other hand, if someone wants to keep their options open and realize that they may switch majors (as many of us do), then this would not be a good choice. The best way that one can make the most of their college experience is not only by knowing what they want out of their college experience, but also by choosing realistic goals to guide them along the way.

Make sure you see the campus on a regular day so you can get a feel for the environment. Also, think about what major you might want and look into that program and talk to current students currently in that major. Look at the different extracurricular activities to ensure there's something that sounds fun for you. Also research the job opportunities and on/off-campus housing, as well as the financial aid. Lastly, look at the area surrounding the campus and make sure that is how you want to live.

Do not pick a school based on college rankings. picking a school mostly only on which one looks like will lead to the happiest life will not only lead to the happiest college experience, but one learns the most when they like where they are.

College goes by faster than I had imagined. I wish I had done more of everything: socializing, athletics, research, internships, courses, studying, partying, reading, and experiencing everything college-related.

Visit the college, you know the feeling you get and which one is right for you. Listen to your heart.

Don't use US News Report or anything to choose a college. Visit campus and meet the people.

Well, I believe that the best way to find the 'right' college, or whatever that means, almost exclusively involves following your gut. You know, that thing that doesn't think but just is amazingly omniscient, but also manages to get sick every weekend (well, you'll discover that particular aspect later). Once you've wandered onto whatever suspisciously amiable campus you've pledged your parents' financial lives to, you should immediately and without hesistation sign up for the first extracurricular you see, especially if it looks ridiculous. How are you ever supposed to grow up and be an experienced and knowledgeable human being if you don't throw yourself out there? Plus, I'm positive you'll want to meet some other college students, even if only to copy notes or buy booze. However, in the end, very little of what happens in those 'critical' months before college matters; only how you have personally grown and matured is worth its salt. So, stop fretting, pin those acceptance letters on the wall, and grab a throwing dart, already.

I would tell parents and/or students to visit the college that you plan on going to and when you do try and talk to some of the students that already attend the school and ask them about the weather, the teachers, the campus, and the social activities. To make th most of the college experience get involved in activities, meet people that are outside of your comfort zone, plan study hours and days so you don't fall behind but never study until you don't have a social life. Experiment with people and different types of culture and just live like this is last only chance to complete something.

Find a campus that fits your style as well as a student body and major at that school that seems aplicable.

Make sure you visit the schools before you select them.