Katie
I would say to know what you want to major in before you get there and have an understanding of the class load.
Jonathan
Go to the college check the activities that are available. Even though you think your child should worry more about his classes then extra activites - think you have to have down time. You want your child to be able to have a choices of those activites, safe enviroment while those activties are going on. The ability to get around campus. Some classes will be across campus from your other classes - will he/she be able to get there from where one class is or from their living quarters without hassle.
Megan
In choosing the best college, there are many factors one should consider. This first is the option of an in state college verses and out of state college. According to one's own ability to detach from strong ties of the past, deteriming how far the individual is willing to be away from their home, friends, and family. Second, one should consider his own interests, and then make sure the college that is chosen reflects those interests. Third, one should do research on the colleges of interest. All colleges have their own personality, and an individual should try to correlate the two.
Millie
It is terribly important to visit a campus before attending or even applying for admission especially to see the department your child is interested in. It is also a good idea to speak to a current student it, helps to make an informed choice with your child about what they want in a college. While visiting the campus try and see a dorm so that you and your child can get an idea of what sort of living conditions you'll be facing when the semester comes. Once in college it always helps to get involved in some sort of extracurricular activities, I always tried to participate in my campus art club because it relates to my major and allows me to meet people who share similar interests.
Barbara
I would advise parents and students to look around and not settle for the nearest school. Find the school that best suits you even if it half way across the country. The best thing to do is follow your heart and see where it leads you. I would also advise students to have a good time at college, make friends and have fun but to also work hard at school. Learn to balance work and play. This will allow the student to have a great time and have amazing friends and memories for a lifetime, but will also lead to amazing opportunities after college with good grades as well. Remember, grades are not everyhthing it is also important to get involved to meet new people which can open thousands of doors for you. Likewise, get to know your professors, this can help with your grades and later in your education these professors can write recommendations or references for you. This way professors know more about you as a person and not just as a name and grade in the classroom. They can vouch for you character and your work ethic, which are very important for careers and graduate education.
Sara
I would tell parents to trust their child to make the right decision for them and to not put pressure on them in any sort of way. I would tell students to learn all you can about each school they are applying for. They need to make sure that whatever school they choose will benefit them more with their education, not just what sports team they have. Each student should look at the department or college that their major will be in and see what the career placement percentage is for after graduation. They also need to check out the social scene. Being at college is about education, but all work and no play makes for a boring life. Also, parents and students should take a tour of the campus. I took a tour of three colleges and it really helped me decide where I wanted to go. I chose the place where I felt most comfortable. The process of picking a college is hard, but if you take time, the result will be being at the best college for you!
Ashley
Make sure its the right fits for you academically and socially
Earnest
Make suere that you are happy. do what you want because life is to short. just thinking before acting.
Laura
First, do you research and know what kind of school you are attending and what life their will ential. Know what kind of life you want for the next four years, and thus the type of area, size, and cultural experiences the school has to offer. Secondly, be open minded to new experiences and get involved on campus and the community from the start.
Paul
Visit the campus and talk to students who already attend.