Anthony
I would tell myself that you need to be mentally ready to further your education. Take the time and assess where you want to be, set small goals and go after them. I went on to college in 1988 after graduating because "that was the thing to do." Looking back, I really did not want to go onto college right then, but my older sister said that if I did not do it then, I would never do it. I started my undergraduate degree in 1988 and never obtained my bachelor's degree in Organizational Management until 2004. I was one of those "kids" that needed to be ready to want to further my education, figure out what was important to me and go and get it. There is a lot of stress that young children today endure, trying to figure out what they want to be and where to go and get it. Now being a Dad myself and having my son going off to college in 2011, I feel much better prepared to guide him in setting up his goals for furthering his education.
Patrick
Take the hard classes now, and try and get some college courses out of the way. At the same time enjoy every second while in high school, its the best.
Shianne
The first advice that I would give to students as well as parents is; enjoy the college searching process! It is wise to start inquiring about different schools during the student 2nd semester sophomore year. Request tons of information from schools that interest you. If you don't know what you specifically would like to major in, you should explore schools that offer a broad variety of majors. College visits are the most effective step in choosing which college you want to attend. Parents should set aside ample amount of time for family college visits. Meeting with college advisors helps students better understand what the college has to offer. Students should pay close attention to the teacher to student ratio. Knowing the teacher to student ratio helps a student choose a college with the right class size for them. Overall students as well as parents should decide together what college satisfies the students needs and expectations;as well as the parents.
Autumn
Dont be afraid to apply to any college! It may seem impossible that you will qualify, but you never know until you try! And never decide on the first one that accepts you, it may seem like the easiest way to go, but wait to see if you get accepted anywhere else and then decide.
Shawn
have time management
Gabriel
Visit the college more than once. Many of the schools I visited seemed right for me during the tour, but when I visited during a school function as a guest, I could see the real school spirit and attitude in the campus. Also, ask alot of questions. Financial aid, housing, student activities, career placement, and department chairs and deans should be overwhelmed with your questions. Not only does it answer all your questions, but lets them know you are interested and they will responde to that. Finally, check into an Honors Program at the school. The perks are the best many schools have to offer.
Benjamin
When looking for a college, do not make the choice based on costs. Some of the best colleges aren't big or hard to get into. Many focus on structure and are so cut-throat that it makes you a cold person after getting through it all. If you don't make it through, you will usually endure a lot of stress because of it. At a smaller community college, you can get the education you need to be successful. I'm not saying you will be really rich, but you will live well. Not everyone is going to be rich of course, but the need to live well and be able to support a family comfortably is important. Sometimes I think many people over look the real meaning of college. Its to help further your education to perform your job well. Some mistake it as an opprotunity to become really rich wich isn't the case most of the time. A community college can get you where you need, and at a great value. Choose wisely!
Shawn
Dont always worry about the schools name and how great it is look at the inside and see what makes it different from other universities.
Alyssa
The most important advice I can give someone would just be outgoing and open minded. Look into all types of colleges, big and small. Explore every option before making the choice. You have to know who you are a person but also, who you want to be. Getting the most out of your experience is completely up to you. Don't be afraid of new things, people, or ideas. Be yourself, work hard, and most of all have fun!
krystal
It is important to know what you want to do in life. Most college students don't know what they want to do for a career or even who they really are themselves, but college is a great way to discover both. I suggest starting out small at an affordable college and then transferring to a larger college/university. It is better to start out small for financial purposes. Another great reason to start out small is to adjust to class sizes. If the individual thinks he/she enjoys smaller classes than he/she can seek a small campus or stay at the original school. If the individual decides he/she would rather enjoy larger classes then for the future he/she can seek a larger campus. A college experience is not only about the educational purpose but a social purpose that helps an individual grow. When finding the right campus, be sure to visit colleges to get the "feel? of the campus to see which environment better suits the student. Ask students around campus how they enjoy their experience at the school and ask what kinds of social activities the school offers. Any education is better than no education!