Ciara
The best advice I would give to parents and/or students would be to visit the college campus, no matter how far. Make sure the college is right for you. Feeling comfortable on your campus and seeing yourself attending it is the key to academic and social success. In order to make the most out of your college experience a person needs to feel as though it is a home away from home. Choosing a college that doesn't feel right and feeling as though you do not fit in, can be stressful, depressing, and can take a toll on academics. An important part in making the most out of your college experience is balancing the academic and social aspects. Involving yourself in extracurricular activites, playing sports, making new friends, and exploring different career options while staying strongly academically focused will make your experience unforgettable and take you far in life after college.
Monique
Dear Parents/Students,
Finding the right college requires time, an open mind, and a career plan. If you are not sure about the direction you will go in, take a year off from school and work or pick a school that has a large vareity of concentrations and know the time frame as to when you would need to declare a major. The right college will not be a bargain by any means. In order for you to go to any school you would need to make some sacrifices as a family so make sure you don't take advantage of this opportunity. The college experience is not your right- it's a privilege and an investment in yourself.
The institution that you'll attend will be part of your growth for at least the next 4 years. To make the most out of your experience you need to contribute to your college community in any way you can. Even if you work there is an opportunity that will only ask for just a couple of hours a week. Break from the mainstream mold and explore new ideas, places, and people! Plus, Always be well-mannered.
Amanda
When it comes to finding the right college for you, first consider what you want to major in. Find schools either near by or far away (depending on your taste) which have good programs in what you want to study. When you've narrowed your list down, think about the type of enviornment you'd like to live in. Do you want to be in a city, or somewhere in the woods? Do some research on the schools that you're interested in and take tours of the ones you like most. Once you chose the school you want to go to, start looking into sports and clubs or activities offered, as well as rescources available for students on the campus. Most colleges offer many different things to try or get involved in such as sports, clubs, concerts, dorm socials, and various other activities. College provides an amazing opprotunity to meet new people and try new things, along with the education you need for your future. So take full advantage of having the time and freedom to both learn and make new friends, and hopefully your experience will be as great as mine has been so far!
Meagan
I would give perspective students the advice that college is fast. The decision is up to the student and not the parent, so follow your dreams and pick the school that feels right in your gut. I would sugguest becoming involved in activities and making as many friends as possible because it ends so quickly. I am applying for my Masters right now and cannot believe it is over. My biggest advice- Good Luck and Follow your heart.
Shawn
In choosing the right college, I would suggest looking at a few key elements. The most important aspects of a college to ensure getting the most of your experience are: the reputation of the department or major including the quality and experience of faculty members, number of students attending, and variety of on campus organizations and groups. I have learned that working closely with even one faculty member that is well connected to your field of interest, will give you great opportunities post graduation. That combined with a good overall department or major should provide all you need to get the most out of your college experience in respect to academics. The number of students enrolled will give you an idea of what the feel for campus life will be like. Some people prefer a smaller campus that will make you familiar with most students while others enjoy meeting new people every weekend. Finally, opportunities for organizations, groups, teams, etc. make for a nice well-rounded college experience where you can meet people and involve yourself in fun activities when enjoying your free time.
Caitlin
Don't choose a school based on the cost. Choose a school that offers what you want and need and that you feel comfortable attending. Don't let anyone choose the school for you as it is your decision and you will be the one living there. Follow your gut and base your decision on your happiness and comfort.
Laura
To both the parents and students entering the college process, in your search for the 'best school' keep in mind that there may not actually be the best school. What the best of any school would be is the hard work from the student, their social experience- (usually made by putting yourself out there in the social network), and the dedication to aid your child through all of it (parents that's you). Student, don't feel the need to run away far from home, because you may enjoy the most unforgettable years for college just about two hours from your doorway, rather than a plane ride from home. When you find your school, apply for every possible scholarship! Anything can help, whether it be $200, that could take care of one courses' books, it's crazy. Don't feel overwhelmed by it all, transfering is always an option too. Pay attention to the factors: student size on campus, environment, programs of study you find suitable, and tuition should be a factor if needing to stay financially safe. Parents and students, if you can visit a school, do so. It could really help to visualize what you might embark upon.
Maria
My advice for the parents would be to listen to their children and let them decide what they want to do with their life and where they would like to build their future.Students, make the most out of your every moment and second while in college.Try to develop your academic pedagogy but at the same time do not forget that these are the most fruitful and beautiful years of your life. Fear of nothing because life with fear is not life. Try to make the world a better place in order for your children to receive it and live as happy as you and with the same opportunities. The chances are out there ready to be caught. Live to learn and learn to live. Live your moment as if it is your last but build your future as if it is going to last forever.
Tory
The college you go to doesn't matter. A degree is a degree. The experience is more about finding out who you are. So find it, and follow it.