Kristen
I would suggest looking at a wide variety of schools, so that students and parents are well-informed and have a large amount of diversity to pick a school. I would also suggest to make a check-list of the qualities you want your college to have, so that you are satisfied with your decision. Finally, to make the most of college, put yourself out there right from the start and get involved in as much as you can becuase it will help you make new friends and create a networking system that can be helpful throughout you college education.
Allison
My advice would be simple: look for a college and campus that you can see yourself doing the things you see current students doing around you. If you like to read, look around to see if students gather around campus to do so. If you like sports, visit the intramural fields. There would be nothing worse than to go to a college where a very little population does what you like to do. I also think the atmosphere around the campus is important when you start to become a Junior and Senior. To make the most of your college experience, I always told myself, "you only live once". If there is something you want to do, even if you never have, do it while you have to opportunity. I also think academic success is very important, but it's not everything. You won't remember the nights you spent studying in the library as much as you will remember the nights you spent with your friends. Lastly, always remember where you came from. Don't get pressured into doing things; it will get you in with the wrong crowd and soon you will not even know who you are.
Samantha
I would advise that finding the right college to attend takes time and effort. It isn't a simple and quick process. As a student, you have to prioritize what is most important to you when attending a university, whether it be academic performance, school atmosphere, or cost of attendance. After figuring out what components of a school are most important to you, you have to weigh your options. I would strongly advise to go on a campus tour to see the campus and to meet and speak with current students. Also visit the city and/or area around your campus to see what activities there are to do in your free time. Many aspects of college life are important to consider when making your decision, so don't rush into the process and investigate each of your options thoroughly. When it comes to making the most of your experience, my best advice is to get involved! Join a club, sport, or organization that pertains to your interests and take part. It will help you make friends, while also feeling like you are contributing something to the university. Trust me, you will really enjoy your college experience more!
Kyla
Go visit campus! A college can be totally different than it sounds on paper, if you know other people already attending there see if they would mind having you up for a visit so that you can actually get a feel for the campus life! As far as making the most of the college experience, you get out what you put in. If something interests you in the least explore it. UK has a club for just about everything; this truly is a time when you will have a ridiculous amount of opportunity and freedom available to you , be wise in your choices but be open to new experiences.
Virginia
Make sure the student feels like the school is the right choice for them. The student should rely on their gut feeling and where they will fit in. I can't imagine a more horrible experience than being in a school you don't feel is right for you. The student does not know exactly what they want to do once they enter college. That is what it is about it and most importantly discovering who you are! Also, look inot financial opportunties, safety of the campus, career center for graduates, and social life activities.
Lauren
I think one of the best tips of advice I could give about choosing the right college is to not stress too much over it. Every college has something unique to offer. I would definitely consider the majors the college offers and the amount of students that attend. I would also take into consideration the types of organizations available, along with what the college is known for (if you're considering medicine, do they have a good medicine/nursing program?). No matter what college you choose, you will find find a way to fit into any institution. As for making the most of your college experience - Work hard and play hard. Have fun, or you won't enjoy college at all. But don't have too much fun, or you won't be in college very long. Get involved in campus events or join an organization . Go out on the weekends and relax, but study hard, hit the books, and GO TO CLASS when appropriate. Have fun and live it up, but don't forget why you are ultimately there: to get an education. Keep those things in mind, and your college experience will be very successful in every aspect.
Courtney
When picking a school, trust your gut. I knew the moment I walked onto the University of Kentucky campus that I was home. The past few years I have learned that my best decisions are made when I trust my instincts. This has led to a fulfilling college experience. So has saying hi to random people in class, checking out events on campus (both academic and social events), and learning to love alone time (without people OR a computer around). Take this time to get to know yourself and to define the person you want to become by soaking up as many experiences as possible...and enjoy your time in college!
Audra
A lot of students are leaving home for the first time when they arrive on their college's campus during their freshman year. Both the student, and their parents, need to pick an environment that will best suit the student's needs. Factors such as campus size, classroom size, housing, and distance from home should always be considered. The only way a student can succeed is if they are comfortable in their environment, therefore everything must be considered.
Once a student starts classes, the best advice is to meet as many upperclassmen as possible and ask questions. Asking questions is essential because the quicker you learn the basics of being a college student, the quicker you can adjust and succeed. Make sure to ask questions about resources on campus such as tutoring, counseling, and the best places to eat. Don't be afraid of looking stupid, because if you don't know anything about your college, then you will not get the best experience and end up looking stupid upon graduation.
Emily
I would tell parents to give their child the oppurtunity to get involved as much as they can while in college. They also need to make sure their children are respondsible enough to do their work and have a social life.!!!!
SE
Communicate with your children, make sure they are having fun as well as making the grade.