University of Washington-Seattle Campus Top Questions

Just decide on three things: environment, size and how you feel when you visit!

Be sure to go beyond guided tours when looking at new colleges--sit in on lectures, wander around campus, etc to get to know the college better. Also, learn about what blunders other college students have gotten into so you don't make them. Freshman year is all about learning to strike the right balance. Once that happens, it's pretty much smooth sailing.

One thing that is extremely important to consider before choosing a college is whether it is the right size for you or not. Big colleges have their advantages: anonymity in large classes, world-class professors, lots of activities, places to eat, people to party with, and the resources on a large campus are virtually unlimited. But there are also disadvantages to going to a big school: you can get lost in the crowd, graduate students sometimes teach classes, it's harder to establish a relationship with your professors, class sizes can be ridiculous, and with so many students it's sometimes hard to get into all of the classes that you want to get into. Base your decision of what school size you think would fit you from your high school/ community experiences and preferences: Did you like it when your class sizes were smaller? Do you like feeling like you know almost everyone around you? If you did/do, then a smaller college is probably for you. As to how to make the most of your college experience: get to know your coolest teachers (they're there to help/guide you) and only party as hard as you study!

There is so much that goes into a college experience, and it's nearly impossible to generalize ways to 'make the most of it' without sounding cliche. College does by so quickly... and I suppose if I were to give future in-coming students a single thread of advice, it would be this: Maximize your exposure to EVERYTHING. Meet new people, try new things, take a variety of classes early on in your education and don't wait to start making connections. Don't rush into choosing a major, and when you do choose one, make sure you've thought about what the degree at the end of the 4 years will mean.

Choosing the right college is a major descision for any prospective student as it marks the beginning of a new phase in a student's life. For this reason, it is very important to carefully consider the many schools that are available to you based on your interests, values, and lifestyle. Research online and at your current school to narrow down your search to about six schools that you may want to apply to by keeping in mind your academic interest, lifestyle, and personal beliefs and values. The next thing that you should do in order to get a "feel" for each school that you have interest in is to set up times to visit each campus. It is a good idea to go to the student union building and ask about events that may be going on that you and some friends could attend. Furthermore, find out when you can go on a guided campus tour in order to not only see the campus, but gain information about it as well. By narrowing your search and living a "day in the life" at each school you're interested in, you can easily find the school that best suits you.

Think long and hard about the question, "What are my goals for the future?" It will save a lot of time, money, and frustration if you decide what major to focus early on, or before, if possible. After all, a lot of people never even take a job related to their degree. Make friends early on - don't be afraid to get out and meet people, since they're most likely just like you. Networking is beneficial academically (study groups, anyone?) as well as socially - it will give you a chance to explore things outside your comfort zone, and make the most of your oh-so-short-and-sweet time at school. I'm sure there's a lot more advice I could give, but it's better to learn some things by yourself..

The most important thing is to do your research. You dont need to know exactly what you want to major in but get a general idea and try to find a university that is strong in that field of study. Find a school that you like, dont go to a school that you hate just because it is a good school. Dont be afraid to travel out of state to attend a university, you would be suprised how much more you learn when you are in a new place taking care of yourself.

Don't slack or cheat. Procrastination and plagiarism are big no-nos in the both college and the real world.

The only advice I would give students about finding the right college is to really think about what YOU want. If you are uncomfortable in a large campus setting apply for the smaller colleges. If you'd rather be close to home choose then choose the in state school-it doesn't matter whether or not it's ivy league if you are satisfied with your college choice. Once you are at college don't be scared to meet new people and try new things! It isn't like high school where you've all known each other for years. At college you can be whoever you want without having to deal with being stereotyped by what you did and who you hung out with in high school. Above all don't be afraid to take a variety of classes. Most college students change their major several times and just because you went into college freshman year as a premed major does not mean you are stuck with that path. Live your life the way you want to and don't let anyone convince you to do otherwise.

Finding the stongest program in your interest zone is important, but also make sure the school is strong in other areas, in case you change your mind about your area of interest. Seek out the help you need. People are willing to help, but sometimes they need to be coerced.