University of New Hampshire-Main Campus Top Questions

I would say that in order to find your "perfect fit", you really need to visit the college while school is in session. Looking at the shiny brochure is all well and good to see the best photo opportunities, but if you visit you can get a real up-close view of the total environment, not just the picturesque skyline but also the attitudes of the people. On a visit to one particular university back when I was applying, I was struck by the beauty of the place, but the students' attitudes were a turn-off. It made me realize that my happiness as a student wouldn't just rely on tree-lined streets and top-notch profs, but also on the friendliness my classmates. I ended up at a university that gave me all of that (and at a much cheaper price - another major determiner, despite what your counselors might say. As for "making the most" out of college, I would say to remember that this is the most free you'll ever be in your adult life, so go ahead and join those crazy clubs whose names intrigue you. Just don't overdo it. Sleep is sometimes good.

It is essential that you visit the school. Stay overnight so that you can visit the campus at several different times of day. Sit in on a required freshman class and a class in your intended major. Ask lots of questions and don't feel stupid about asking them! Ask who teaches the classes--are the courses taught by faculty or grad students, or both? Go with and without your parents. Visit the dorms and ask lots of questions there. Try to stay away from a structured tour. They are fine to an extent, but if you want the real 411 you are going to have to ask questions of various students and faculty--on your own. Ask where you will most likely be living (which residence hall) and if living on campus is required or optional. Most importantly, get all the costs including fees--not just tuition. Ask financial aid what your award will be. Often there is some wiggle room, especially if you haven't accepted yet and you are being courted by different schools. Ask yourself, "Can I picture myself living here for the next four years?" Listen to your gut. Talk to your parents and goodluck!

I would advise students and parents to tour a school long before the application process. Too often students choose schools based on other's reviews, rather than their own personal research (secondary information). I would recommend thinking through your whole college career, not just where you are going right after high school. I am most disappointed that I didn't look into the classes offered at my particular college within my school, and also disappointed that double-majoring is so difficult and expensive. Friends of mine attend colleges that are more open to double-majoring, interning, etc. I feel as though my school is an advocate for itself, rather than the student (i.e, money). I would have preferred a private school because in-state schools tend to be a glorified version of their state's public high school system and in turn are cliquey (a result of everybody already knowing one another). I would also recommend transferring immediatly if you are at all unhappy: it may seem intimidating but it will be better in the long run!

Make sure you always visit the places you're considering and parents, let the students deiced for themselves which would be a best fit for them. They're the ones who will be living there for 4 years! To make the most of your experience, live on campus in the dorms Freshmen year. Those you meet Freshmen year will constantly resurface and stay with you the rest of college. Get an internship. Study abroad. Go out, but study hard. Go to lecutres and any other events the campus offers.

For parents and/or students who are looking for the 'right' college, my advice to them is that there is no perfect school for anyone. I believe there are a variety of colleges for a reason. All of them essentially offer the same thing - an education, activities, a chance to learn and grow on your own. However, I would tell future students not to get too hung up on finding that 'right' college because each one will give you the same thing - a degree. In the end, it's up to the student to ultimately determine if they've chosen the right school for them. There could be many, however, the student knows which school(s) is right for them in the end. In general terms, I would say that college is a wonderful yet trying experience to endure and go through. In my first years, I experienced some very difficult times and would recommend that students seek the help and resources from their school. There are always people out there to help you, it's just a matter of asking for it. Students, choose the school that you think can offer you the most for the best price.