University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Top Questions

When considering which college to attend, always put your values first. If the values and environment of the university you are visiting are not compatible with yours, you won't be happy there. In addition, excellent academics and a vibrant social/non-academic scene are equally important. There will be times, no matter how involved you are with school work, that you will need a break and having options makes that fulfilling. If money is a concern but a more expensive school fits you like a glove, go there. We all have loans and you will regret never giving yourself the opportunity when it existed. Once at the university you selected, the most important thing you can remember is balance. Be diligent about your grades, since you are paying for the education after all. However, don't forget to give yourself a break and join a club or go to the movies and just enjoy the atmosphere around you. After these four years are over, all you'll have are memories so make the most of them.

My advice to parents and students about finding the right college is to explore all your options. Look out of state, look at the state schools and the private schools. Investigate the metropolitan universities and the small town schools. Don't close choose a school because it's cheap. If you really want to go to an expensive school, there are ways to make it more affordable. Don't deny yourself anything.

Look into your options and ask a lot of questions. Deciding where you will spend four years of your life and potentially thousands of dollars is no light decision and should not be rushed. When you are at school, never be afraid to ask for help or to use the resources that are available for you - professors and tutors are available to help you succeed and there are always campus resources to help with transitions and any problem you could run into while at campus.

You should definitely visit the campus a lot of times before deciding and consider how at home you feel there, not just rankings in a magazine. Don't just pick the place all your friends are going, either. While you're at college, join clubs and do things, even if it seems unnatural at first. Reach out to people in classes. Join study groups and apply for jobs, internships and research opportunities. Do your homework and excel but don't forget to enjoy life and have fun; you'll never have this much freedom and downtime again, so take advantage of it!

it is very hard to tell what school is going to be a perfect fit for you; i think that it is very important to visit every school you are interested in. If you cant make it to schools you should try to interview a student via email or phone. don't take this experience lightly, it is important to put yourself in the most positive situation you can for the next 4 years.

Make sure to have a good balance of the college education and as well as the college experience. Start early when looking for a school of your future and dont worry too much about price as there is usually some sort of help financially for it.

It shouldn't be about the name or the prestige that decides which school you eventually attend, but rather what your feelings are about that school. Take some time to physically visit the campus, talk to some students, and see what it has to offer you. Once you're in college, jump right into meeting new people. Sure, college is about excelling in academics, but without others to support you, it can be very lonely, not to mention, a very big feat to conquer.

Go to the U of M!

Really i would say first, visit the school. Secondly, be cautious on how comfortable you feel especially with the students around you then. Reputation is really important aspect of your career when you graduate. This is important when looking for that good job. It shouldn't be you number one priority but definitely try to consider that. Like i said, class size was not an issue to me but if you are the shy student or one that seeks a small class size, then I would say look into that. Am saying this because your grades and active participation might be hampered. One last thing to consider is your interest and the various courses that the school offers. This was one of the main reasons as to why I chose the Univerisity of Minnesota; Its because of the variety of courses and majors that it offers. So don't restrict yourself because you never know how much your interest in life can change. From medical to Agriculture to Business, I have all the opportunity to change my mind easily if need be. Lastly, the recreational facility that the school has is another thing to consider inorder to be fit.

Make sure to tour the schools. Students, find a school that "feels right." (You will know what I mean when you find the right one :)) Also, parents, let your child pick their school, dont try to steer them in any direction you choose, only give them your advice and opinion when they ask for it. Students, buy your books read your book, and go to class! Also, balance your free time and school time. Find a healthy balance to have a social and academic life that you are happy with.