Boston College Top Questions

I know that you are worried about making friends and finding a new group to hang out with once you start, but do not lose sleep over it, you will be fine. Most schools will offer many opportunities for incoming freshmen to get together and meet new people. The first opportunity comes before school even starts, orientation. You are forced into a small group with people just as nervous as you, and are bound to connect with someone. Also, once you start school there are often several school-run activities for the first few weekends aimed at the freshmen, to encourage meeting new people. Though these activities can often seem uncool or boring, they are actually quite fun. Also I would suggest enjoying the home cooked meals while you still can. Although every college claims that their food is amazing and delicious, nothing compares to a nice dinner cooked by mom. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, buy your books online before school starts. Any books sold by the college will be at least fifty dollars more expensive than what you can find online. Try to get the ISBN numbers ahead of time and save yourself some money.

I would tell myself to research the resources that are available for AHANA students, then to branch off and find major specific resources. These two avenues offer a wide array of resources from scholarships to networking opportunities with alumni. I would also suggest that I get an on-campus job where there is the opportunity for student faculty interaction, be it in the faculty dining hall or in a particular department. This increases your networks and although you may not have a personal interaction with all the faculty members they have an opportunity to see how you interact with others and in the event that they find an opportunity and do not know other students, you may be the first person who comes to mind! And last but not least, remember that impressions matter. From the impression that you give the cleaning lady to the impression you give peers and professors. It is reflective of who you are and you never know who's watching so always put your best foot forward!

If I had the ability to go back to senior year and talk to myself while I was considering colleges I would have told myself to do more research. And by that I mean research the social life at the schools more, research the major requirements further, research more of the area the schools are located in. Doing all of that would help ensure picking out the right college to go to. I would tell myself to also tour more campuses, talk to current students about their experience at the schools, and I would tell myself to talk to my friends more about what they are looking at in a school to see if they could give some guidance. Furthermore, I would tell myself to let my parents and my high school guidance counselor be more involved in choosing which schools to apply to. The last thing I would tell myself is that once you get to college make sure you keep in touch with friends and family from back home and to also be the outgoing person who goes around the dorm building introducing herself to other people so to make new friends.

As a high school senior student, I was very anxious to begin my college experience. My high school did not prepare students much for what lied ahead of them. Additionally, I had few older friends who could give me advice about the years to come. If I could go back in time, there is much I would tell myself about college life. Firstly, I would tell myself to relax. You do not need to know exactly what you want to do with your life- you have time to figure it out. The rumor is true- you will have much more free time in college than you did in high school. Do your best to make the most of this time. Take advantage of the opportunities at school to get involve . At times your school work will be overwhelming. While it may be tempting to lock yourself away in the library for days- resist. Life is about more than getting a 4.0. You will meet lifelong friends here and make memories that you will carry with you always. Stop and appreciate what is around you- these are the best years of your life so far.

College life gives the student a crash course in independence. High school is over, the parents are gone, and one is forced to try to make many new friends in the span of the first few weeks of college. This part of the transition is probably the toughest. Do not pretend to be someone you are not when making friends; these friendships will not survive the semester. Also, students are increasingly trying to fit into the "hook-up" culture that now pervades most campuses. I urge seniors to think twice before partying and drinking; the consequences of these actions can either be relatively benign, such as an embarrasing moment, to more severe penalties, such as loss of friendships and even an arrest if caught drinking under the age requirement. Colleges usually have a myriad of other activities that one can enjoy on campus besides the typical college party. Academically, college courses are definitely more challenging. Time management is the key here; keep up with your work. Set up regular times each weekend in which to do homework. Use the libraries, tutoring services, and office hours your college and professors offer. The only way to perfect this strategy is to practice.

Take responsibility for yourself, initiative is important. No one will make you go to class or do the work, the services you need to succeed will not come find you, internships and career options will not fall in your lap. Everything you need to be successful is there but you have to go get it yourself.

Don't worry. It will all work out in the end.

Time is so important at this point in your life. Your life and future are at stake. Relationships change. Friends will leave you and betray you. Education will become a part of you. You'll be able to have something of value that will never leave or change. It will enable your success. And not just financially. You'll be able to do what interests you. You won't wake up every morning dreading going to that dead-end job. You'll have a career before marriage and children. You'll meet people from many cultures and races. Your view of the world will broaden. No longer will you be stiffled in your own private space. You'll understand other people and their point of view. And learn to respect the opinions that differ from your own. Four or more years go by quickly. It's the most exciting time of your life. Learning should be your reason for getting a college degree. People change careers in their lifetime. You will always have a foundation to change your life. You are an intelligent person. Don't waste these precious years. Do this now. You'll find a way.

Work harder- Take ap tests seriously--look for more scholarships---get SAT Turtoring--Shoot for ivy league

I would tell myself to just be myself and not be worried about what other people think. You will find people that you really like and who really like you for the person you are. Don't be shy and put yourself out there, go outside your comfort zone. The most important thing is finding a balance between extra curriculars, school and friends.

Do not stress out, you will be happy in the end.

Be sure to pick a place that you think will help you grow as a person. Allow yourself to let got of any preconceived ideas you have about who you are and who you have been, and enjoy four years of growth; both academically and individually. If you think you would enjoy a school with a large sports program, seek that option because a university with much school spirit can help draw students in, so that they really feel to be a part of campus life. Many of the people I have met in college live by this simple phrase: "work hard, so we can play hard." After a tough week of classes, projects, papers and tests, its awesome to go out on the weekend and just have fun with all of your friends. Be open to new people and new mindsets, because unwavering rigidness to old ideas can be ignorant. Live your college life with intelligence, humor, a work ethic, but also make sure to have a whole lot of fun.

I could come up with a lot of different pieces of advice for an incoming freshman but I think two of the most important are: always having a positive attitude and a determination to succeed. Naturally, no normal human being will always have a positive attitude about everything and everyone at all times. However, even with just a little effort to see the brighter side of things, a situation could turn out much better than ever expected. From my experiences, this was definitely the case. When things hadn't gone exactly the way I planned, instead of stressing I just appreciated the situation for what it was and always ended up feeling more accomplished, knowing I did all I could. Especially during our freshman year, it?s important for students to be mentally healthy--as in having the least stress possible. For this to happen, it would do them well to follow this advice. As for the second piece of my advice, I think it goes without saying that you need determination to get into college, to stay in college, and to go beyond it for a better future not only for yourself but for the world.

Besides the name and whether or not the college is prestigious should not be the major reason for attending a school. You must seek out the college that will best fit you-socially, academically, financially. It would be best to ask students who attend the college from various different backgrounds, majors, or ethnic groups their opinion on the school. Look for places that provide great advising support in order for you to select the right path to graduate in 4 years. Check out the living arrangements. Make sure to get the opinion of those who have recently graduated or are alumni and see how their degree has helped them after college.

When trying to find the right college there are several variables to take into account, but in the end it really boils down to what the studen is comfortable with and what it is theyare looking for in a college. If there is any hesitation at all, some time should definitely be taken to weigh all of the possibilities before making a decision. Spend your time wisely. Manage the time that you've been alotted in order to make this decision and balance it throughout, don't wait until the last minute to try and make decisions. This is your future. When trying to make the most of the 'college experience', don't try too hard. Stay away from peer pressure, period. DO NOT follow the stereotypical college student lifestyle of all-nighters, drinking and other depictions of the college student because they're mostly untrue. Seeing this first hand, I've come to realize that many lose sight of the reason why they are at college in the first place which is to learn. Whether it be in the classroom or other event, there is always something to learn. One step at a time.

It is important not get too wrapped up in the prestige of the school, but to focus on what you really wants out of a college. If a small school in a small town is what you want, you will get a good education no matter what as long as you are happy and apply yourself.

Start looking now and do everything you can to find as much money as possible

College is only the beginning. Choose one that is affordable, will allow you to enjoy various extracurricular activities, and where the atmosphere feels right. It is not enough to want a prestigious or a brand name college, you must be able to handle the people and the environment that comes with it. Only then can you make the most of your college experience.

Don't be afraid to look in places that you would not normally consider. Don't go for the schools with the biggest name, but rather the one that seems the best fit for you personally. Freshman year can be challenging, but try everything! Don't be afraid to participate in activities that you weren't active in during high school. Most of all, give yourself time. Don't put too much pressure on yourself. Remember, you're in a new place with new people, and basically a whole new life. There is plenty of time for achievement academically, but definitely have fun! Meeting new people and experiencing different points of few are just some of the many things that make college such a unique experience. Grades aren't everything. And parents--try to put pressure on your children. It is hard enough getting used to college without feeling external stress. Let them breathe and take everything in--they'll come to you when they need help or advice. Enjoy every minute--the years fly by!!

To students: Be true to yourself and what you want. Really think about what is important to you. Think deeply. Talk to students who go there, and go with your gut instinct. Try not to stress too much about it, you are allowed to change your mind, and you are allowed to not know. But, be open to new ideas, and make sure you visit! To parents: Be a resource for your child. Don't force your opinions on them, but offer guidance and support when they need it. Take them to visit many different colleges. Help them, but let them make their own decisions. And if you get there and don't love it immediately, put effort into getting involved, and trying to make the most of it. And if it still isn't the right fit, don't be afraid to transfer.

Visit each college and pay close attention to the information sessions run by students. There will be a "typical" student that goes to each school, no matter how diverse the college or university. Go to the school that matches most accurately your personality to that "typical" student. Or at least consider that you may become more like that "typical" student during your four years at the school, so choose a college in which you respect and would not mind being like the type of students that are alumnae from that school. And good luck! Remember that it is supposed to be a fun process, and trust your instincts!

I think I would advise parents and students to focus on finding a college that is a good fit for the student, and not necessarily focusing only on college rankings and selectivity. Many parents and students get too caught up in school rankings, but in the end it is most important to be successful and comfortable at your college. I have also seen a lot of high school students participate in activities just because they think it will look good on their college application. It is more important to pursue your own interests and passions in high school rather than doing things just because they may impress an admissions committee. Once you are in college: be yourself. Do not change who you are to fit in with a certain group of people. Interesting and worthwhile people are those who appreciate you for who you are. Broaden your horizons! Try new things, college is a wonderful opportunity to experiment with potential interests. Do not be afraid to approach people and go into things alone. Remember that in the first year everyone is looking to meet new friends. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet a diverse group of people.

Presumably most people would advise attending the school from which one receives "the feeling." Yes, if you are one of the lucky few to have "the feeling" go for it. But for the rest of us "the feeling" is merely an ever elusive wonder. My decision process was quite arduous, as I came down to two terribly similar schools. In pursuit of "the feeling," I resorted to ridiculous practices like trying on each school's t-shirt, hoping one's billowing fit would in some way illuminate my college choice. My efforts proved to be futile and I was left utterly confused. So, I instead began to examine a different sort of fit ? how did I perceive myself to fit into this school? Such a question can only be answered by visiting perspective schools, participate in tours and information sessions, but most importantly meander through the grounds and try to picture yourself at the school. Once enrolled my advice is simple: get involved! Find something you are passionate about and pursue that interest. Challenge your high school perspective and formulate beliefs that are uniquely your own - rooted in self examination and experience. Carpe diem! Four years go by awfully fast.

Find a college that when you walk onto the campus and look around, you just know that this is the place for you. It's like meeting a best friend. There may be things you don't like or could be better, but at the end of the day, the college you choose should be one where you can be yourself and will guide you as you become the person you are meant to be.

do wats best

Focus less on the academics and more about the students, the people, the environment because that will effect your child's learning experience more than anything else.

Do your research. Try to find a school that really makes sense for you. Remember that things will change, and it is up to you to make the best of that.

I would advise them to choose the school that they feel most comfortable at when they visit . If you arrive on campus and feel at home at once, that's the school for you. When I went to BC for the first time, I fell in love. You need to find a school that balances academic work with your social life. BC is a challenging school, and I spend A LOT of time doing work... But, I have a great social life and go out every weekend with my friends.

VISIT and go OUT and see what the people are like.

be very open-minded and flexible

Although today, we, as Americans, face an economically trying time it is important to still put your son or daughter?s needs first. College may only be a four year fraction of their lives; however, depending on the college or university the memories will last a lifetime and the degree will bring opportunity for a lifetime. Every college will have sporting events, parties and other social activities as well as academic adventures, but where the schools differ are how easy they make the students adjustment from living at home going to high school classes 7am till 3pm compared to living away from their loved ones and having a sporadic schedule of events. The university that makes the adjustment period easiest for a student will have the student academically focused sooner and give them the ability to gain friendships faster. Once the adjustment period ends, in order to make the most out of college, the student needs to let his guard down and be open to new things such as joining interesting clubs. Finally and most importantly keeping your dorm room door open for visitors because you never know when the friend of a lifetime may pop in.

I would definitely advise visiting the college and doing as much research as you can to find out if you would be a good fit for the school. Also, visit many schools to get an idea of what you do or don't like so you can narrow down the selection. I would talk to students or faculty at the school to get a better sense of what the school is like and if it is something you are looking for. Make sure it has the resources you want or need and that you can definitely see yourself attending the school and enjoying it. To make the most out of the college experience, try and learn as much as you can and get to know people on a different level. Everyone has something to offer and there is so much to learn-embrace it!

To discover the most about each college that the student has been accepted to. Do not jump to conclusions because of money or academic rankings.

My advice would be to thoroughly research the schools you are applying to. Make a list of the things that are most important to you in choosing a school and narrow your search down that way.I suggest when visiting a campus, take time to walk around alone or with your family after a guided tour and try to get a feel for the vibe or energy of the school. Talk to students, ask for directions, you will get a feel for the campus by how helpful students are around campus. Once you're accepting into schools, make a list of pros and cons to help you decide. Make the campus' energy a category in the 'pro/con' list. To make the most of the college experience, get involved and work hard. Appreciate how much the college experience is broadening your horizons and teaching you to be a unique and independent individual. College is also about finding your best lifelong friends, learning to roll with the punches and finding out what excites you, what you are passionate about. College can only be done once, so make the most of everyday.

Seek out professors while you're applying and once you get to school. They can help you understand what a university is like, and they'll help you get connected to academic and social networks once you get there.

As a student athlete, my best advice to future students and parents looking at colleges is to always make sure to choose a school for the right reasons. While athletics may certainly factor into a decision, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that the student chooses a school they can see themselves attending with or without their sport of choice. Coaches may leave, injuries may occur, and passion for the sport may fade. If any of these were to happen and you subsequently took athletics out of the picture, would you have any regret about making the choice you did? As far as making the best of your experience, always remember the saying, "the grass is always greener on the other side." Many friends will come home telling you how great their first year was, and its important to keep things in perspective. Its easy for stories become "larger than life," and its rare to hear about all the negative aspects happening at another University. Take one visit to a friend's school, and I'm sure you'll find things there that make you appreciate where you chose to attend.

Visit colleges where yopu want to live. Reach high and do a lot of research. Don't go crazy with applaications. Apply to a reasonable number, a couple reach a couple mid, and a couple safeties.

Having transferred from one university to another in the state, I believe I understand what contributes to running a superior university from a student's perspective. I advise those parents and students seeking a university compatible with their academic and social interests to first decide concretely on what those interests are. I transferred colleges primarily because my own interests changed in the past four years - there is a good chance they will for others. You need to feel comfortable and welcome at college! As a graduating senior, I have also come to appreciate the importance of a strong career services department to the college experience. Although I attend a fairly prestigious college, there is more to finding an entry-level job than the name of your school. I would further recommend that students attend a college or university with a broad spectrum of academic departments. Having changed from seeking a liberal arts degree to graduating with a business degree, I appreciate the diversity of study at my school.

Finding the right college involves time, research, and commitment. It may take all of senior year and may even continue into that freshman year after you thought you had already found the right college. My advice to parent's and prospective students is to make sure the student has been exposed, or actually visted and experienced the different college milieu's. Be patient. College campuses vary in all shapes and sizes and there are many factors to consider from transportation, work availabilty, to the size of the classroom. All of these aspects interrelate and there needs to be an appropriate balance to fully enjoy college as a whole. Finances are of the absolute necessity and students and parents should make sure that the student can afford all four years and make sure they choose a school where this is a possibility. Finances can significantly affect how much of the college life from the learning to the social living that the student is able to participate in. Extracurriculars outside of the classroom, such as a job, club, sport teams, are of the utmost important in making friends. Also, remember, drinking buddies are not real buddies. Form friendships first.

The brand name of the college does not nearly matter enough as the people and the environment of the college. Even if you work so hard to get into the school of your dreams, if you don't have any chemistry or friends at that college, you're paying for four years of mediocrity. Of course everyone wants to go to an famous college but keep in mind: Each student body is different, and these are the people you will be surrounded by for the rest of your college career. Choose wisely. College is more than just academics, so your choice should be based on more than just numbers and grades.

It's easier to make an imperfect school for you work in a perfect city for you than the other way around. Be sure to understand where you'll be living.

Find a place that has many opportunities for you to do self-exploration and discover what you love and what you are passionate about. During the next four years you will grow and change and mature in ways that you can't possibly think of when you're a senior in high school, so leave some wiggle room for yourself. If you're choosing between your dream school that's a lot of money and a mediocre school with a full scholarship, go to the dream school. You will never regret waking up every day to a place that you love. You have your whole life to worry about money and responsibility, use your college career to experiment and try new things. Once you're in college, don't ever stop questioning things. Don't settle for a B, but don't spend 36 hours hyped on caffeine. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. If you never try, you'll never learn. You'll never regret making a mistake and learning from it, but you will regret living with the "what if". Spend college finding out who you are, and never stop believing in yourself. Be excellent.

It is very important to speek with someone who already attends the school and try to spend a day or two on campus, staying in a student dorm to get a better idea of what campus life is like.

You need balance in everything. While a top school may be great, you really need to find the right one. Being driven in high school doesn't always translate perfectly in college, there are countless distractions and adjustments. Spend time on campus, make sure you think you will enjoy the culture and the community, because that is what will help you acheive what you want. Stats about the school are good, but the people and teachers matter more. Big schools also may seem intimidating but they quickly will being a tight community that would make it seem much smaller. You ave to go to campus, meet people, and make sure you can work hard and play hard there, a good balance.

a lot of small achools can be a repeat of high school - clicky and lots of gossip. it is also easier to avoid a social scene that is completely alcohol based if the school is near a city, or has public transportation so that there are things to do off campus. At the same time, if you want the "college" atmosphere, then it is important to find a school that is not in the middle of the city. BC, in the suburbs, is perfect in this regard.

Let the student choose where he/she wants to go... they are the ones that will be going to class, living on campus and experience college, not the parents. If money is the issues, find ways to finance college.

Don't stay at home. Try something different and see what the country (and world) have to offer. There's a lot out there and you won't get to experience it if you stick to your roots.

Where to begin? Well, if you're like me and happen to be the first of your family (parents included) fumbling their way through the college process (applications, finances, etc), you have a lot of work to do. But you must do what you can to keep college from becoming a chore. Delegate the responsibility of your education with those closest to you. Keep your parents as involved as possible. Don't be put off by the sticker price of an education. The average private school is going to cost you $25k+ a year--but there are a million different scholarship and grant opportunities out there to alleviate the stress of paying for college (and the subsequent student loans). Have fun, make friends, and don't compromise your beliefs to fit in or placate others (there will be plenty of opportunities to do so). Your niche is there; you just have to look. Embrace your school's colors--real and imaginary. Learn HOW to study. Think about that last statement, then ask upperclassmen to clarify it for you. Don't drink every weekend. Lastly, know how lucky you are to be in school and make it count.

The most important thing for choosing the right college is thinking about the first impression that the school makes upon you. If the atmosphere feels right and is something that really intrigues you, chances are that the next 4 years at that particular school are going to be the best of your life thus far. It's also important while making sure that th eacademics are going to challenge you, but not too much, that you take into consideration things happening around campus all the time. Do you want to be involved in volunteer programs but also be an avid sports fan? There are so many things to do on a college campus that you really can't go wrong with whatever choice you make. If you can see yourself there, as part of that community and involved in the very things that you see going on during a tour, chances are that it is the right place for you and will be a great fit.

Pay attention to colleges that aren't your first pick. Each campus offers its own, unique environment. Jesuit colleges often have great faculties who care about its students - and they don't force religion onto their students