Raisa
I would tell myself to go out and do orientation activities and not worry so much about trying to fit in with everyone else. Just go out for activities and try them and if after trying them if I don't like them then I can quite. I would also say talk to people and collect numbers and names and ask people to hang out. Also don't be afraid to get to know the girls on your floor. Talk to them, get to know them, you will never know what friendships could come out of them. Dont be afraid to be yourself, even if you are a little goofy because everyone hear is nervous and doesn't know anyone so be the first to make introductions. I would also tell myself that even if your roommate seems to be a really nice person and you think you'll get along fine, set up some dorm room rules. That way you both know whats expected from each other and it will prevent conflict in the future. Don't be afraid to tell your roommate what you're uncomfortable with because its better in the long run to avoid conflict.
Sara
I would really think about your future and even if you don't know exactly what you want to do when you grow up, do what your heart tells you. Even if you choose a school that you can barely afford, do it. In the long run, you'll be happy. There's always a way through financial aid help and jobs on campus. Students: Do it for you, not for others. Parents: don't force your child, let them learn on their own, sometimes that's best.
Justin
New college students should get involved with as many extra curricular activities as possible. By doing that they can create life long friendships with people who share the same interests as them. Students also need to take their studies seriously. Companies look at GPA so it is important to keep it up so it can put you ahead of the next person. Community service is also another very important part of college. By helping out the community students can make connections with people, which could help in their networking and finding jobs. The overall college experience should be very enjoyable and active. By being involved in many things students slowly develop into the people they will be for the rest of their lives.
Marybeth
I would advise any future college student to be sure and make a very informed choice. It is hard to find the college that is good for you; fortunately I was able to find the perfect one for me. For parents, let your child choose don't push them into a choice because they will more than likely end up not being happy. For students in college try to get involved in activities that the school holds and clubs and sports, it is a great way to meet new people and have fun at the same time.
Seth
Take you time! It is so important that you know it's the right fit for you. Don't worry about what your parents think; it needs to feel like you are spending this money for something you really want.
Kelly
Make sure you look at everything. If school is too much, ask about offered scholarships and grants. Go through a checklist and make pros and cons, but do not be quick to judge. Never be intimidated by goals that you put your mind to. Its not just your childs first time, other students are new also. So take advantage of things going on around campus and interact with people , try new things. Now is a time to find you. Never feel intimidated/scared by anything. You are not just here to go to classes. You have the opportunity to meet new people from all over the world, volunteer in your community, intern at the place you want to work for after graduation, and all of these things you learn values, responsibility, and how to have a good time. If you hesistate at something, try it anyways, you might like it.
Ashley
Don't go to a college just becuase a boy or girl friend is going or already goes there. You need to have your own experiences and grow.
Mary
It is hard to tell when looking at colleges, but you need to find the school that is the right "fit" for you. If you have to transfer schools because the school isn't quiet right, that's ok to do. But it is important that the school you pick works well with your personality and prefrences. The best school in the world will be no good to go to if you are too unhappy at school to do well and graduate from there.
Betsy
My best advice is to really think about your high school experiences and what you like and dislike about your high school. If you attended a smaller high school and you liked that fact, moving to a larger college or university is probably not going to be a good choice for you. I never realized how much I enjoyed being in a small high school until I attended a larger college and did not do well in my classes. i would suggest that you make as many visits to the campus as possible to fully understand the ins and outs of the college and its surrounding area.
Joni
I had a hard time finding the right college for me. Choosing a college is ultimately the student's choice. Though, parents can help guide his or her son into a couple good school options. Something I have realized, myself is I love bigger areas, but I need to be educated in a smaller school so I get the attention I need in order to do well. Even though private schools tend to be more expensive, I have found this to be most successful because it is a smaller school, yet in a bigger area where I also like to be. My classes at Viterbo have left me with a comfortable feeling and I know I can talk to either my professors, advisor, or other classmates about anything if I need to. It is also very important to get involved in extra-curricular activities because you open up so many doors for yourself and in meeting new people. College is about doing what you love, but also trying new things that help you develop into who you are meant to become. I've learned it's about what you make, not necessarily what the college brings you.