Lynda
To find the right college the future student and their parents should visit that campus before applying. The information that someone can get from their friends, the internet, or other media can make that place sound nice and perfect for you but the only way to find out for sure is to explore the campus and maybe sit in on a lecture or two. After finally deciding where to go, to make the most of the college experience be sure to stay open to new activities. There are plenty of clubs and extra-curricular activities on campus and off campus that may seem intimidating at first but after attending a few times it makes the school year a bit easier. College shouldn't be only about studying all the time. There should always be a little down time during your week where you can practice a hobby or just go out with friends without the worries of school.
Alberto
Find a school that has just what you're looking for in ALL aspects. I worked for the University of Washington as an Orientation Leader and I have run into countless students that have said that their friends do not like the school they're in because it doesn't have the same aspect as they'd like in whatever aspect. Students, make sure you do your research before applying/deciding on a school, and parents, look into the programs that a school has! There are a lot of opportunities that a school might have that might seem out of your grasp because of finances, but not always. Students, trust me as a current Junior at the UW, it goes by SO much faster than you think. Do not let it just slip you by.
Crystal
Visit the campuses before you make the choice, but don't be afraid to transfer is once you get there the school is not for you. Go to all the orientations your school offers get involved in clubs, but not too many. Clubs will love to have you but if you sign up for 20 different clubs you wont have time for them. Sign up to get involved in one to four clubs but make sure your able to hnadle both your social life and academic life with relative ease. Don't be shy, in college you have a chance to build who you are to your maximum potential, don't be afraid to go out and make new friends and experience the life lines running all around you on your campus. Last of all don't forget your old friends at home and keep in contact with them and your family, you may need to fall back on them for advice or help and if you haven't contacted them for 9 months they may not be as willing to help as they would be if you had called once every few weeks or visited.