Sylvia
Go out and explore every chance you get. Don't be afraid to talk to students and faculty about yourself. Get to know them. In general, don't be afraid to try. There's so much to do on any college campus, that there's no reason you should be locked up in your dorm room just thinking about high school memories. These are the best years of our lives, as they say. So make the most of it. Study a lot, but make room for friends and fun. It's all part of the experience.
Kelsey
You really can't decied if the college is write for you unless you go there. visit the college, see the people, experience the student life. See how friendly the college staff is, if these people seem like you could get along with and become friends with then that college is probably right for you. If you just don't feel at home then maybe that is not the right colleg of you. You'll know when you've found the right one, and its ok to change if you don't like where you are. You should do whatever make you comfortable and happy.
Heather
I would tell them to look at what major they would like and to look at the schools course catalog to find out if that school offers classes that the student would like to take. It is very hard to attend a university and do well, if you don't like the class options.
Dan
Definatly tour the college before you go there and try to talk to people who attend the college
Tony
Find a place that you like, not necessairly the "better" school in terms of reviews by people other than people that you know. Its more important to go to a school that has a good dining hall, or a broad range of activities, or a good living set up, rather than an elite university or college that is very small, conservative, has professors that are there to do research - not teach. Its more important to be happy for four years than to be able to put an elite college's name down or a resume.
John
When you visit schools ask kids who actually go there what life on campus is like and how they spend their time. That is the only way of really knowing what a school will be like and if you will enjoy it or not. Also go to a school that fits your personality. If you are easily overwhelmed and enjoy smaller classes and one on one teaching do not choose a large school. To make the most out of your college experience you must be open to new ideas and meeting new people and not be afraid to get involved with activities on campus.
Matthew
I would suggest that a student attend a community college first because of the cost of bigger universities. While they may not get the freshman dorm life and the friends that sometimes you can meet in the beginning, they will be saving themselves a large sum of money that could cost anywhere from twenty-thousand to possibly a lot more. Regardless of which path a prospering student chooses with a 2-yr first or 4-yr, I would also suggest that a student stays in-state with the college in which they can attend. Colleges are not cheap by no means, but with financial aid, government student loans, and private student loans practically anyone that is truly interested and serious about furthering their education after high school can do so. Finally, I would wish them all luck as the next few years will be trying on everyone whether that be with family, relationships, to personal finance.
Courtney
I would absolutely suggest that you visit every school you apply to. A lot of people are different and are comfortable in different enviorments. I thought my campus was gorgeous and fell in love with it. Also, when you think you have found a school, try to find someone that you know that attends, or even ask a student that you don't know some questions. If you do know someone, try spending a night and maybe even attending a class with them. Experience is everything. Once you find a school and start attending it, ask older students about the classes you are taking and even ask about the professors. Every teacher is different and they all have very different styles and grading habits. Even visiting www.ratemyprofessor.com can tell you a lot about the course and the teacher you are taking so you will be more prepared for things coming your way.
Alexandra
To find the right college you really need to visit them. Take a tour or something at each of them, then make lists of what you do and don't like about each. From that list decide what points are important and pick your school from there, or if you just happen to fall in love with one when you visit then pick that one. It will be better then you can imagine.
On the first day of class be the person who sits down next to someone and strikes up a conversation, it is one of the easiest ways to make friends and you will also get study buddies. Go to all your classes, even if you show up late, and if you miss one talk to your buddy to see what you missed. Look around at bulletin boards to see some activities you can do. Join a club, it's another good way to make friends and provides a good study/homework break. Basically have fun, do your work, follow the rules and enjoy life to its fullest. There are more opportunities out there then you know, keep your mind, eyes and ears open to get them all.
Thomas
Visit the campus as soon as possible, and don't limit your options. Apply to alot of schools, safety schools, more challenging schools.