Carla
Finding the right college takes time and is really about the student. The college should fit the student's personality and goals. For example, UNC Charlotte has a beautiful campus and I instantly fell in love with it. I knew once I arrived that it was the school for me. The people were friendly, helpful, and I just enjoyed the whole atmosphere there. The student should vist the school to get a feel of how it is there because it helps in the decsion process. To make the most out of the college experience, meet new people and have fun. Take your school work seriously, but do not forget to hang out with friends. College is about learning the most you can from the environment you are put in. Make the most out of college by taking advantage of every good oppurtunity that comes your way.
Jessica
Prepare yourself. Without thorough research of each school on your list, you do not have the answers to future questions that will indefinitely surface. Be aware of your own self needs, preparing for the basics such as finances, academic integrety, and safe housing, but also research the school's counseling department, career center, and spiritual guidence centers. Above all, know that as a student, you will change a great deal while in college. Allow time and patience for those changes, and don't forget to remind yourself that no matter what happens, no one can take your education from you.
Daniel
As a student and resident advisor, I meet new freshman every year. I tell them all to go and visit as many school as you possibly can before you graduate from high school. And do not, just visit the college campus, visit the city around the college also, get a good feel for the area, around the school because it could be your home for the next four years or more of your life. Pick a school that you can feel at home and that you can see yourself being true to yourself and successful.
To make the most of you college experience make sure to take advantage to all the opportunites given to you for example, living in a learning community, free tutoring, Supplmental Instruction, and most of all setting up a good core group of friends/students to study and work with. College can be extremly hard all on your own for most majors. But most of all try your best and I believe that hard work and deadication, you will bring you success. And remember, study hard, work hard and relax...
Katy
If your a parent helping your child find the right college, make sure to visit the campus of the colleges you're able to. To experience actually being on the campus is different from what you see in pictures. Also, finding the right college takes time. Some students transfer and some find the perfect place in the college they choose, don't lose hope in finding the right education and an equally fun college experience. So, apply to as many colleges that you truly want.
Sherard
Choose what feels right, and don't just rely on pamphlets and the school's website to make that decision. Visit the campus, walk around, and get lost in the atmosphere of that school. Get a tour guide and have them talk about the school, and if possible ask students that go there what they think about their choice. Choose what feels right in your heart and your mind, because even though some people change schools multiple times throughout their college career, some are lucky enough to find the perfect school for them the first time around. And also, there's nothing wrong with changing majors, because you will only be successful in a major that you like. (However, don't wait until your junior/senior year to change majors!!!) Finally, make the most of college!!! Don't stay stuck in a book for 4+ years. Make friends, have fun, and live life to the fullest. Most adults say high school was the best years of their lives, but personally, I feel that my college days have been the most amazing time of my life. College sets you on track to becoming an adult, so have fun while you can!!!
Frank
In finding the right college, don't just visit on a "tour" weekend. Visit when the school isn't expecting visitors. That gets you a better view at what life is like as a student there, whether the weekends are boring or busy, and how crowded the school is during normal hours.
Nam-Thi
My advice would be how the staff and faculty on campus interact with their students. I think their interaction is important in a student's education to becoming successful.
Cynthia
THe advice I would give to parents/ and or students is too choose a college that has a high successful post employment rate in your job field. Look at the cost and decide if it is affordable for you and your family, because getting yourself in a lot of debt just hurts you in the end. Also if they are looking in to staying on campus make sure that the dorms are safe and clean. These are important things to remember, because they can make or brak a college.
Tim
Figure out what kind of person you are, small town or city. Find a college located in that same type of area. This will make for an easier transition from home life to college life. Save your money before you go to college. Don't be afraid to try new things, but keep your head on straight. Never loose sight of your main goal. Mine being graduating with lots of knowledge in and around my area of interest and finding a good and fun job.
Christopher
College is, to a great extent, about the acedemia. You go there to get a degree, and that is the major basis upon which you should base your college choice. A college that has a good reputation academically and fits you or your childs needs should be at the top of your list. At the same time, college students will be college students. It is a time of experimentation with the world. A time of self discovery during which they can put to use everything that they are taught as childeren. A lot of people say that you should live life to the fullest, and that college is the best place to do that. I would say that you should live life so that you have no regrets. Live according to what you believe and leave nothing to regret. College isn't right for everyone, but if you decide to go there, know that college is hard, but it is fun. You have to work, but you get to do what you love and pursue your own happiness. Embrace it and live the best that you know how, and don't forget to ask others for help along the way.