University of Northern Iowa Top Questions

go where will feel you fit in the best!

First of all make sure the college not only offers what the student thinks they want to do, make sure there are several good programs incase they do need to do a change in major. Second, talk to the students when you get a chance, ask them how they feel about campus life and the school in gerneral, it should be fairly positive! Thirdly make sure that the teachers are their TO TEACH not to do reasearch and teach becuase they have to. You want teachers who are there FOR YOU! Finally make sure the campus life is safe, friendly, and that you will have the oppertunity to build community and make friends. While college is about higher learning it is also about so much more, like how you conduct yourself when you are on your own for the first time and it all helps shape who you are so much. You learn much from college than just textbook factual information!

Definitely visit the campus. If you have an idea of a field you want to go into, look at a college that is known for that. I chose my college based on their business school's reputation and the fact that it is a beautiful campus, not too big & not too small - I knew it was were I wanted to go. To make the most of your college experience definitely get involved & meet new people - especially people that are different than you, you'll learn new things! I suggest living on-campus at least the first year if not more. Its a great way to meet new people. Use the facilities and resources provided to you such as the fitness center, library, and especially professors. Don't forget to take time to have fun too, believe it or not that's pretty important!

Find a place that gives the feeling you belong there. A place that you know you can adjust to and reach your academic goals is the right choice.

Research lots of colleges and do lots of college visits; they seem like a pain at the time, but it really helps. Do not choose a college based on where your classmates and friends are going. If you college offers a "springboard" or an all-first year living experience, do it. You make lots of friends, and you are more accquainted with your campus and your residence hall staff. Make friends with your RAs, don't make them your enemies. Take advantage of on-campus jobs, and take advantage of on-campus tutoring, its free and very helpful. Go to class, but if you need a personal day, take it. Make as many friends as you can, and get involved right away.

I would tell parents and/or students to take college tours and look into the academic programs the college offers. Also, go to a college that has the major you want to study. If a school is well known for a major program the student wants to pursue, then most likely the school is a good school and the student will get a good education. Parents and students should also feel comfortable with the activites and help the college offers. I think one of the most important thing about choosing a college to attend is making sure one is comfortable with the school's atmosphere and the surrounding area. Students should also particpate in activities offered by the college. This way, the student can meet new people and have fun. Even though some classes may be hard, one should keep going and go for their goal.

Go wherever you feel you have the best chance at being successful not only academically, but socially/personally. Once you are there get involved early its not hard and it builds up your resume and build stronger ties to the university and all it has to offer.

I advise you to find what you love to do and find a program to match it. Look for faculty that are well-known in their field and have a good reputation as instructors. Look for a college that will bring you just enough out of your comfort zone to grow!

Don't limit yourself -- discover as many colleges as possible before making your choice. You may find that the college that's right for you wasn't one that you thought you'd ever be interested in. Once in college, it's so important to get involved in campus activities. The easiest way to do this is to talk to a current student leader and ask them how you can become more involved. It sounds cliche, but it's very true. Getting involved in campus activities is the best way to meet new people, develop as a leader and become more connected to the campus.

im having a great college experience but make dam sure that you study and not fail out. i have a lot of friends who have