University of Rhode Island Top Questions

college is the best 4 years of your life dont waste it.

I believe it is important for parents to encourage their children to travel to school if they wish and to live on campus if at all possible. Living on campus gives student more opportunities to do well academically, and to make lasting friendships. Though the thought of a child moving away from home may be daunting, it is for the best. As for students, the same is true. Living on campus is an amazing experience that should not be passed up. Also, get involved at your school. Meet new people, and build a network. Someday, when you have graduated, you can call on your network to aid you in your job search. Most of all, enjoy every minute of your college career. It will be the greatest time of your life.

I suggest that the student lives on campus and out of state from where they grew up. This will provide them with independence and the ability to really experience the college life style. Also, choose a college that prides itself in the area that you are interested in. For example, URI has an excellent PharmD program, people interested in Pharmacy, should apply to URI.

When trying to decide where to go to school, take into consideration what type of atmosphere makes you feel most comfortable. College is a time where you get to expand your social circle, and explore different interests that will allow you to figure out what makes you unique. I would highly recommend an interview because it gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have, also, during an interview you are usually allowed to take a guided tour of the campus. I found both of these experiences very influential when I decided where to go to school. It can be intiminading going to a new school, but just keep in mind there are a lot of other people in the same position as you. Most people are just as nervous and excited to be there as you are. Have no fears and be the person you want to be, as Thoreau said " Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined"

I would tell the parents and students to find somewhere that has your major and your passion (if they're not the same thing). While some school's are great accademically, if the student who applies there is only goint because of the major, then they're not going to enjoy school nor get a lot out of it. If they have creative, social or atheltic outlets, they're going to be more happy with what they have found. Also, I would say that being happy somewhere is more important then the price. There will always be a way to make the tuition. Go where you feel comfortable, worrry about the money afterwords. And parents, don't let you children feel isolated, the worst feeling is thinking that you can't call home for help. And students, don't be afraid to ask for help, from your parents, friends or people on campus. The worst thing you could do is not reach out and learn things while in college. Learn, explore, have fun, but keep your head.

Ask students, don't always go by what the tourguides say. They are paid to make the school look its best.

make sure you can pay for the expenses

Make sure that its a place you really want to be at . Its where you will be for the next 4 years of your life. Have fun!

Make sure to go to as many open houses as possible and ask alot of questions. Once you go to the school of your choice try to get involved as much as possible, its a great way to meet people who could be fun to hang, study or even help you with other things in life.

Students, I write this mostly to you because finding the right college is one of the hardest decisions you may have to face in this life. What make it so difficult, as I am sure you have found; is not only do you have to focus in on one aspect of the college experience but rather the entire thing. Academic programs, campus sizes, class sizes, housing, and social life: these are just some of what you must study and know like a science, at least that is what everyone else is telling you. My advice to you is to find the campus(es) you like on paper and afterwards visit. Just walk around and take in the scenery. Can you see yourself there? Studying, growing, laughing, and learning for the next four years. If you can envision it, then maybe that is the place you can learn to call your second home. Parents, my advice to you is simple. Do not pressure your children but rather encourage them. This is a time of extreme change for both you and your student. Allow them to make their own decisions. Be supportive, provide guidance, and the right decision will be made.