University of Connecticut Top Questions

As far as the preliminary choosing a college goes, I would tell parents and students to visit everywhere that you think is a possibility. It's important to visit multiple times during different seasons to see what the weather is like throughout the school year, so start looking during your sophomore/junior year. Also, look through the different academic programs that are offered because you'll end up changing your major at least once and you don't want to have to transfer schools if your school doesn't offer another major that you'd enjoy. Lastly, don't let money deter you from your first choice; financial aid is always available. Once you get there, keep an open mind. Take classes in all different academic areas in order to help you make the best decision you can about your major. It's important to get involved, whether it be in clubs, sports teams, or just simply going to athletic events. Another good idea is to get close to a few of your professors so that you'll have people to write letters of recommendation for you. Also, use all of the resources the school has to offer.

Don't follow your friends but don't try to allienate yourself either. Whatever school you end up at you will make new friends have enjoy new experiences but you have to be willing. It's ok to take some chances in college, like joining a club or going on a road trip, just stay focused on what you're doing and don't let bumpy roads get you down. No one is alone in college, no matter where you go there will always be someone to lend a hand.

In searching for the the "right" college, there are many factors that contribute to one's decision. First of all, there are two sides of the argument to look at: the responsible, parental outlook vs. the college-kid, party mentality. The first and most important aspect when looking for a college deals with finding a place that you, the student, can be happy on a daily basis. This place must also be able to support a healthy working environment where one can get work done when needed. On top of facilitating a working environment and being able to foster healthy habits, the school should have an abundance of social activities. Socializing, making friends, and having a healthy lifestyle, such as going to the gym or playing flag football, all contributes to a positive college experience. The ideal time at college focuses on maturing, getting work done towards a professional goal, yet still having fun in the process by learning to balance work and social life.

College is what you make it. It doesn't matter where you go, if you can get involved in something you love, you will make friends and have fun. You will be surprised that not going to the college you dreamed of can still be a rewarding experience, and you may even have more fun. It is also important to step out of your boundaries and try new things, you never know what or who you will find. In making the most of your eduation, have a good rapport with your professors. They can teach you more than you will know, not just educationally, but with life. Strive for the professors that push you. You may complain about the workload, or their teaching method, but you learn a lot about yourself and you will learn way more than from the professors don't even know who you are. College is your one and only chance to start becoming an adult, don't spend it on the couch at home, live in the freshman dorms and take advantage of all the new friends you will make for life.

do lots of research, visit schools, make sure they have everything needed to live away from home and get a good career

Before applying to any colleges, first think about what kind of person you are. Do you think you'll focus when in a 400+ student lecture? Or would you prefer a 15 student classroom with lots of individual focus? After thinking about the size of the school and all that goes along with it (academics, social life, extracurricular, sports, etc.), I feel that the location is a very important factor for what schools to even apply to.. Will you be happy with going to the school that is a 10 minute drive away, or would you prefer a school that takes a 6 hour drive, or a 3 hour flight? There are so many things to take into account, and your happiness, not your parents, teachers, siblings or family's feelings; your happiness is what makes the college experience seem worthwhile, as opposed to four years of wasted time.

Talk to students who attended or are attending the school about academics, housing, safety and social life to get a good feel of the school before attenting.

In my personal experience with the college search, I noticed that the school I chose was the only one I could really imagine myself at -I just got this connection or good feeling about walking around the campus, and I knew it was right. When searching for the right college, make sure, of course, the school will offer what you think you will need to get the career you want. Also, make sure you think about things like location (how far from home), things to do outside of the classroom, and activities available that interest you. Get involved, and take advantage of everything your school has to offer whether it be resources, connections, or opportunities.

Visit the schools you are interested in before enrolling in any of them.

Don't make a decision too quickly. Be realistic - pick a college you can afford. Don't be afraid to meet new people. Don't spend all your time in the dorm room. Join campus clubs and activities and get out on the weekends. Work really hard and play hard (sometimes). Take advantage of the opportunities that are given to you, such as studying abroad. Go for it!