University of Wisconsin-Parkside Top Questions

Focus on the subject that you truly love and that you have a passion for and this will help you in reaching your goals. Take as many college level courses as possible while still in high school as this will help you complete your undergraduate degree in less time.

I would tell myself that Parkside is an excellent school and I never thought that I could be so well adjusted and ready for my career (as a sophomore) as I am now.

College is what you make of it. Don't get upset if you don't go to what you thought your dream school was. You might find unexpected pleasures in a second choice.

try to go there a couple times before school starts

Parents should encourage their children to take their time to find out exactly what it is they want to do in life. The student must find what it is that motivates them and this should play into their college choice. Finding the right atmosphere is important to be able to focus. When choosing a college you may want to stir away from the wants and focus a little more on the needs. I would have liked to have gone to a bigger school in a huge city because it would have been fun, however I know that I would not be able to focus on what is important. So in a way, you should know yourself and your needs before making any decisions such as accomodating how much you have to work and knowing if you are better focused close or further away from your home town. Atmosphere is definetly key to aquiring a desired college experience because any college can offer one to anyone, but not every person is right for any college.

Talk to your kids and know what activities they are in

You only live once (depending on religion), but in this life you should do what you truely want to do. Choosing where you feel in your heart is what is best and no matter what a parent or peer says, it's still your life to live. They will get over it and you will be stronger from the decission that you make on your terms.

To go to the college you want, evenif it means tranfering.

I would tell them to tour the school and make sure they like what they see. Also, talk to the students that go there. Nobody can give you a better insight into what type of educational environment you will be entering then students that already are attending. Also, do some research. The first school you see may not always be the best choice. It's important to do some research to make sure that you are making the best choice for your future.

For parents and students trying to find the right college I would ask are they intrested in a 2 year or a 4 year? Do they want to take classes outside their major or do they want to go straight to their major? What is their learning style? Do they like big classes in a 200+ lecture hall, or do they like smaller classes where it is easier to interact with professors and ask questions. Do you know what your field of study is already? What have you heard about the schools you are looking at? How far are they looking to live from home. Do you want to stay and live at home or do they prefer to go out and have an adventure living on campus? Is sports a big factor for choosing a college? Are you intrested in playing on a varsity team, or do you just want to play for fun? Are you willing to make new friends, try new things and get involved? Find a few colleges that hold your intrests and go visit them. You could even shadow a student for a day. Have an open mind about applying and ask questions. Good luck!