Sadiyah
When planning for college its never too early to start. The longer you put off researching and applying the more you lessen your chances of getting good dorm and financial aid situations. It doen't hurt to stay in touch with colleges, go for a visit, establish a relationship with an admissions representative or advisor. Once you've made your decision, first plan for financing your education gather W-2s and other tax related documents, they will be needed to do the FAFSA, which determines the amount of government AID you're eligible to recieve; then prepare everything you need for school: immunizations records, dorm essentials etc. Finally communicate every one should stay on the same page, parents, student, advisor etc.
Michelle
After graduating high school, I didn't want to go to college. After a few years, I realized I needed a change in my life. I turned in my application, was accepted, and before I knew it, I was living on campus. Making the decision to go to college was the best decision I've ever made.
For those still in high school, the best advice I could give you is to do your absolute best. Take extra time to study for tests. If you're having trouble, have a family member/friend/tutor help you out. To the parents: support your child through their education. Encourage them to do their best. It will help them be more prepared for college, which is a huge step in their lives.
Winning this scholarship would be a huge help. I have loans that I will be paying for a long time. I also work very hard at my job, but it's still not enough. On top of tutution, there are books, supplies, rent, and other every day expenses. This money would allow me to ease some of the stress in my life, and not have to constantly worry about money.
Dante
Finding the right college for yourself is not exactly an easy task. It should be well analyzed and thought out. Personally, I did not put too much effort into determining where I wanted to attend school; which I believe was not smart on my behalf. Luckily, I did end up at a good university that I am learning at and still able to enjoy myself. For those considering universities, they should become familiar with the city; what goes on around the campus, crime, social life, etc. This individual should also consider how strong the school is in their planned area of study. If you are planning on majoring in the business field, why would you be attending a university that is strong in the medical field? Take good time to get to know the college that interests you. After all, it will be a place that you will be spending a lot of time at, why not make it worthwhile?
Kimberly
I would advice parents to search as many scholarship sites as possible. Tour several colleges before making a decision. Please make sure your child remembers to stay focused, work hard and make the most of it. This can be done , it won't be easy but well worth it. Please, please do not take a break. I graduated from high school in 1988, started college the "took a break" and 20 years later realized without a degree I have nothing. Now the cost of finishing up is extremely expensive and the work load is much, much harder especially when you work full time at a high stressed job, have 2 children and attend school full time. It's a rough, expensive lesson that I hacd to learn.
patricia
Talk to each other and keep your options open. If finances allow try to get involved on campus as much as possible. If you have to work while your in school set a study schedule to stay on top of your work. Don't be afraid to talk your parents if you are having trouble.
Matthew
Don't make the chioce based on the name of the school. Look into the teachers, the students, the administration. Just because the name is not well known around the world does not mean you can not get a world class education.
Corey
Visit the campus during a school day to see what activities are going on. Meet the professors or sit in on classes to get a feel for the culture of the college. Learn about financial aid early so you know what your options are and how to apply for the aid you need. Be as involved as possible in extra cirricular activities and in the community surrounding the college. Rest and relaxation are as important to your academic success as studying. Find a healthy balance of study and play.
Mojahed
Let your son/daughter live on campus, and dont let money be an issue. Check out the school before you accept to go to it.
Latrease
make sure you do the research for whatever school you plan on attending before you apply there. Also be sure that after you do apply to a school and get accepted that you keep in touch with the financial aid department and the admissions department.
Syeda
I would tell students and paretns to look at each college choice carefully. They should pick a college that is affordable. they should pick a college that has the major the student wants to have. Also it should be easy to go to the college and there is no problem in living arrangement. Students can make the most of the college experience by being responsable but also having fun at the same time. They shouldn't be afraid to meet new people or take classes on new subjects. They should take every chance they get to something exciting but safe.