University of Rhode Island Top Questions

Although college is meant to prepare you for the rest of your life, the college life itself needs to be approached to the fullest extent for the student. The first thing I would say about finding the right college is asking the prospective student "What are you looking for in your ideal college campus?" While answers to this question will differ, there are some priorities to keep in mind for the student(s) and parent(s). Does the student want to be in a rural or urban setting? Do they want a big school or small school? What's the student's intended major? Which school best fits that major? How is the local economy? Are there jobs available? Public or private school? What is the cost? In-state or out of state? What is the campus involvement situation like? How about the extra-curricular activities? My suggestion to prospective students and parents is to answer these questions to the best of their ability, and then prioritize the questions and answers. Finally, search for the school(s) that best fits those responses, and begin narrowing the choices down. If I could do this process again, I'd follow this routine.

I would tell students to choose a college that feels right. Find a passion in life; even if you think it's a silly childhood dream; go for it. FInd a school that will be able to help you make that dream come true and compliment that passion. Location is also important, but don't choose a college simply for the location. Make sure everything about the college fits who you are. Also think in terms of traveling costs. If you want to go somewhere far away but cannot afford travel expenses, there is always study abroad! Once you find a college that makes you feel a little bit at home; you'll know. You want a college that can fit your personality and open your eyes to knowledge and experience. And parents; don't push your kids to go to a college you think is right for them. You may be their parents and think you know best, but no one knows best what is good for your child than your child. Trust them to make choices; making choices is a part of growing up and learning responsability.

First, I would tell future college students and parents to apply to really look at your options and decide what type of school they want to attend. Do they want a large school, a small school, a private school or a public school? Do they want to play varsity sports at the school or are they going to play the club teams? All of these things factor into which school to attend. Next, I would tell them to try to find a school that fits their personalities so it will be a comfortable place for them to be. If they are not a city person, then don't apply to only places in the city. Find a place that fits you and where you will have the most fun. Also, if you are undecided, then go to a place with lots of options so changing your major won't be a big problem. Once you find the right school, try to make the most out of your college experience. Stay focused but still go out and have a good time with your new friends. College is a great time and it becomes what you make of it. So have fun.

Make sure you spend some time actually at the campus. Enjoy the night life before deciding