tony
i would tell myself to stay on track towards the end of the school year. It was a hard transition because of my lazy ways towards the end of highschool. the last couple months of highschool, i did not take school to seriously. i slacked off a lot and when i got to college i found it really hard to start doing school work again, so i would tell myself just to stay focused and not let senioritis take over too much.
Kara
-It's really not as hard as people make it out to be. Sure, college is different, but it's so much better than high school. Work can be more challenging, but the available resources and free time mean that if you want to do well, you will.
-Find something you love to study, and you will be happy basically wherever you end up.
-If you don't know what you want to study, start by visiting some schools that have majors you might be interested in, or at least a wide variety. Be sure to check out their Career Services (or equivalent department) to gauge what kind of support you will be given as you figure out what you want to do.
-Apply for scholarships early and often.
-You can talk to as many people as you want about college, but the experience is different for everyone, and it's really what you make of it. The transition can be absolutely terrifying, but you will get through it! Just know that it's ok to be scared (and it's ok not to be scared). Talk to someone if you need to, that's what they're there for!
Kaitlin
I would tell myself to have an open-mind. I wasn't thrilled about going to this school, so upon moving in, I think that I tried to just find things wrong with it. Slowly I realized just how great it really was. I was on a beautiful campus, getting a great education, and having a ton of fun along the way. If I had been more open-minded, I think I would've realized that alot sooner
Also, GET INVOLVED. Talk to people, make connections; join a club, a sport, a sorority/fraternity....something. It makes it so much easier to be away from home when you are surrounded by new friends and good times. I cannot stress it enough...GET INVOLVED!!
Richard
First off, the school is not the most important thing. It's quality is secondary. The most important thing for a student who wants to succeed is their own mindset. If they work hard to succeed, they can. Sure, fancy equipment and a prestigious name can help, but it really up to you who attend the school to make the most of whatever is available. Often, you will find that the large price tags that so called "better schools" is really not worth the few extras you can get there. Integrity, a good work ethic and initiative are the main keys to success in college.
Amanda
If you do not like the college you have chosen the first year don't be affraid to transfer! Also, visit each college multiple times and if possible try to spend a night there with a friend.
Ryan
Try not to allow money to be a factor of where you choose your school. Make sure to get as much help as you need with the application process and financial aid.
Jennifer
Parents and students,
The best college for you should be first based on academic credentials, then by first glance. Once narrowed the search this way, then go into size, activities available, location, price, living arrangements. You want to make sure you or your child will be comfortable with the decision as well as making the best of what is offered. In order to make the best of the college experience you cannot slack off. Even though away from home education comes first, this is what you are paying for. But definitely make sure you are getting involved. Find something or many things you are willing to put time and effort into. This will make you experience so much better and you will know it was worth every penny.
Michael
find a college where your child feels the most comfortable, if they don't enjoy their time they won't do as well and they will be miserable
Darci
Choosing an undergraduate education is important but it is also important to keep the future in mind. Financial considerations are necessary especially when considering where the student wants to attend graduate school. Visit the schools and ask a lot of questions. Talk to students who currently attend the university. Get as much information from the top choices to ensure that you are making an educated decision. To make the most of the experience, do not get caught up in the party scene. Obviously have fun, but you're paying a lot of money that is essentially invested in your future. Study hard, ask questions, become involved and be dedicated to your education. You will get everything out of your education that you put into it. Seek out friends that aren't like you -- diversity is crucial at character development. Take advantage of the study abroad programs because they are an amazing opportunity and they will easily be the best time of your life. Bottom line, be who you are and who you want to be the entire time you're in college!
Nathan
Make sure you look into their extracurricular activities as well as their academics. It is really important to make sure you are going to feel at home at your university if you want to enjoy your time their. College isn't all about academics. You need to find a school where you can balance school work, work, and fun. That is how you find the right college for you.