University of Missouri-Columbia Top Questions

Be open to a variety of colleges. Just because one has a certain reputation or friends are there, doesn't mean it's the right place for you. Make a list of the most important aspects you want in school, and rate the ones that you visit.

I would tell them to get involved and talk with people. College is a time in a person's life where they will experience things they have never done before, see and meet people they will never meet again. Its a once in a lifetime experience, and in order to make the most of it, you have to get involved and do something. It will help shape who you are and who you will become later in life.

Choosing a college is a very hard choice for both students and parents. Moving to a new town/state and living on their own can be very scary for young adults. For parents, the choice is also scary for them because they want the best for their children and of course want to always be there for their children. Most parents want their children to be at the college closest to them, but they need to allow their child to make the decision. This is the student's time to grow up and the parent needs to respect this. College can be difficult and stressfull, but it is all a part of the experience. The parent will soon start seeing great results from their child before they know it their child will no longer be their little baby, they will be an independent adult.

I would tell parents and students to make sure that they fully research the university and visit the university before deciding upon attending. I would also encourage potential students and their parents to ask questions about the university and talk to some of the staff and the students (not just the ones who are in charge of admissions).

The best advice I can think of would be to tour as many colleges that you can. Consider everything about a college. Include not only the acedemic aspect of a college but also the home life of a college and the fun. What works best for you. Never chose a college because of the people that you will know there. You can make friends at any college. Chose what is best for you, not anyone else but you.

The best advice i can give is to start looking early and sumbit your applications early.

Being close to home is important. For me, I find myself very busy with work and school and there is simply not much time to visit home. It is essential that you make the most out of those times you do have to go home. YOU HAVE TO GO TO CLASS! For most of my classes simply showing up to every class insures a good grade.

Visit several different places, and ask people you know about the colleges that they went too.

Take your time. Start early, and visit as many campuses as you possibly can. Don't be shy to ask your tour guide questions if it helps you get your feel for the campus. Inquire about sorority/fraternity life if you're interested; these can be very helpful in helping you meet/make new friends during your freshman year who are probably going through the same thing you are. Do research on each school you're considering; find out what each university is known for (i.e. Mizzou is known for their Journalism school). Most importantly, make sure you choose a school that you can see yourself going to; one that fits you, and makes you happy.

Make sure you find a college that not only suits you academic needs, but also your financial and social needs as well. It is important to graduate with a useful degree as well as finding lifetime friends and not coming out of school with $80,000 in student loans. Check out all kinds of universities, big and small, just to get a feel for the differences even if you think you might not be particularly interested in a school. Take your time and work with your school for financial aid. Good Luck!