elaythea
find a school that fits your needs and badget , research is very important !
Stephanie
Be sure to get scholarships when you arrive in as a freshman or transfer, there aren't hardly any for students that didn't get them initially. Also look into what the general education requirements, some colleges require a lot more than others (I feel these are pretty pointless), see if you can test out of some.
Stephen
First I would say to focus on doing well academically in high school. Then, starting early, do all you can to save money to make your college life easier. This also widens your choices of schools to attend. I would also advise being active in clubs and organizations, especially those related to your intended major, to help prepare you for social life on campus, and enhance your education. Find a college that focuses more on academics than partying, they are the ones that are more likely to give you a quality education and more job opportunities. Make friends! Don't be afraid to ask for help! Try to create real relationships with professors and alumni, always helps with networking and job/internship opportunities. Community service and volunteering always looks good on a resume and increases feelings of self worth. Make the most of your free time, either studying or doing worthwhile extracurricular activities. Theres nothing wrong with hanving fun, just be smart!
Jennifer
It helps to know what the student is interested in so he/she can pick an undergraduate school that has a good program in a specific area. UCM has an excellent English program, where I could focus my attention on the English program while I took my general education classes. Sometimes going to a community college first to take the gen. eds. can be more helpful to a student while he/she decides what he/she wants to focus on for a major. Study the college's programs and find something you can stay interesed in for four years.
In making the most of the college experience, go to as many social activities as possible, at least once. Most schools should have a "week of welcome" for new students with planned activities. It's important to go to these, and meet other students who are new, too. If you have a particular interest in something and there's a organization/club in that area, join it. It's a great way to explore your interest more and to make friends. Try to have fun, but still study hard; the academics is still worth-while in a college experience.
Erica
Chose the college that fits you best. Chose one that you feel comforable in. If you like a big cit then go to a college in a city. IF you prefer a small town a college like Central Missouri is for you. You have to like where you are if you are going to get good grades and excel in your degree program. Make friends everywhere, in your dorm, in class and at the union. Dont be afraid of talking to people you dont know. This will help you know more people and feel good about where are and what you are doing. Another thing get in a good habit of time management and doing your homework. Dont be a procrasinator just because your parents aren't there to push you to do your homework. College cost a lot of money and you are only wasting YOUR time and YOUR money when you dont get good grades or slack off. And most of all have fun and enjoy your college experience.
Kristin
Make sure you go to a school that is friendly and welcoming. Also make sure the school is accredited before you attend it.
Abi
College is about making friends and actually learning something not only in the classroom, but also about the world and life itself! It'd stay to find somewhere that fits you personally, make sure the classes are reasonbly sized, and the staff at the university is friendly. It doesn't matter where you get your undergraduate degree...it matters what you learn! I'm getting a degree at the University of Central Missouri....not the best in the country, or even Missouri, but I have had the opportunity to study abroad for a year, make lifelong friendships, and, most imposrtandtly I have been placed in a management position with the Hyatt in Miami straight out of college. As long as you push yourself, you'll end up where you want to be, not matter what school you choose!
Whitney
I would tell them to make sure they have a chance to visit the campus before they actually get a chance to choose their place of higher learning. Simply because things are not always as they seem.
Ashley
When choosing a college students and parents should definitely start early in their high school career. I waited until I was a senior to visit any colleges and that was a big mistake. You should also apply to many colleges because even if you have your sights set on one you may change your mind. Applying to several colleges gives you room if you change your mind or if for some reason you don't get accepted. After visiting a few colleges I thought I knew which one I wanted to go to. I applied to that one and two others just because other people told me I should. I was all ready to go and then the summer after I graduated I changed my mind and decided I wanted to go somewhere smaller. I was only left with two options because it was too late to apply anywhere else. I ended up making the right decision but only because other people convinced me that I should apply to more than one college. So my best advice is to definitely explore all of your options when deciding on a college.
Sarah
The most important part of selecting a college or university is the overall atmosphere, including everything from the weather to the town size to local hot spots. From the moment one arrives on their campus, their surroundings will consistently affect their spirit, motivation, and general work aptitude. Be sure the setting is appropriate and feels right for you; otherwise your education and drive to succeed will not flourish.
As far as getting the most out of college, one should be sure to meet as many people as possible and join any and all organizations that are of interest to you. It is important to socialize with those experiencing similar events and to create a network of friends and acquaintances to assist with anything you need. A diverse community of people also allows one to be exposed to customs and subjects that one would never have learned about except through those different than themselves. College is a multitude of learning experiences, be open to everything that feels comfortable and seems to be of interest.