University of Maryland-College Park Top Questions

definately live on campus if you can.

Pick a large school; the more people, the more diverse of an experience that they will have. Plus, they will always be able to find friends and like-minded people. I feel like small schools don't have as many good professors and the new experiences available to students could be limited. But of course, small class sizes are always a plus. Also, don't be to strict on your kids drinking alcohol. That way, when they go to school, they don't go binge-drinking crazy. If drinking alcohol isn't glorified as a big deal to them, the appeal of binge-drinking will be lessened.

Attend all possible invitations the campus offers prior to entering the institution. By doing so a prospective student can learn about the university and talk enrolled students. This is the best way to get a feel for the campus, by actually being there, experiencing and judging the facilities for oneself. Furthermore, the student can stop by offices and classrooms on campus to gain an understanding of how life works. Preparing and visiting the institution early can facilitate finding the right college. Making the most out of your college experience comes easy. the campus buzzes with opportunities to work or participate in studies. Also, the office for student organizations is a great resource to use to get in touch with student groups. Finally, make sure you are always looking and hearing about new opportuntiies. Some chances to get involved may be through word of mouth.

Make sure that there are a wide variety of majors offered. I have to go back to school after getting a B.S. in Public Health to become a Registered Nurse. I wish Nursing was an offered major. I would also ask to see what kind of experience the child is looking to have from going to college--large university, less time and with professors, less individuality--small colleges, they will receive that indivuality and personal attention.

Don't be fearful of a large school. You will make it small. Don't think the dorms aren't good enough. They will be good enough. The friends you make there will mean everything, not the cleanliness of the bathroom. Be aware that you will gain weight. Use the gym -- you're paying for it. Apply for financial aid, no matter your income status. Join clubs, you'll make friends for life. Explore the area surrounding your college. Visit every school you apply to.

Sometimes you will feel overwhelmed by the amount of work you have to do, but if you just buckle down and stick with it, it'll be worth it in the end.

Find a college with multiple majors that interest you. Go to an orientation/campus tour and make friends with somebody in your group. There are plenty of potential friends there.

The best advice I can give prospective students is to first figure out exactly what you are expecting from your time at college. For me, I wanted to whole "experience". I wanted a big school, with a decent sports team to cheer for, a good social scene, and a good academic record. I wanted the campus to look like it does in movies and I wanted to be in a good location, both in relation to home and in the surrounding area. It is important to visit all the schools you are looking at because some of these things can't be read about in a book. Don't be afraid to rule out schools because they are in the middle of nowhere. If something like location is important to you, don't ignore it or you will regret it later. When you visit schools, don't worry about petty stuff like dorm rooms and meal plans - envision yourself as a student and think about what you want from your school. Go with your gut and don?t worry if another school offers you more money. Enjoy college now and you'll make that money back in no time.

Go to a college that makes you happy. Do not go to a school because your friends are attending or you are in a relationship. You will make new friends and your like will work out. If your relationship does not, you do not want to be at a school that you do not enjoy. Also, use college as a time to branch out and move wherever you want to go. Do not limit yourself to going to college in one specific area in the country.

Investigate well and vist. Don't be afraid to ask questions!