College of Saint Benedict Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Kristin

You are profoundly ready for this new chapter - just as you were ready for braces, for middle school, for your first kiss and for prom. Don't be afraid to be messy, to ask questions, to get lost, to cry. Nobody is perfect, even in college. Your family will not forget you, they won't form a secret club or stop calling. They will miss you. The first day of school is scary, but that's nothing new and it will get easier soon. Don't forget that everyone is in the same boat. Making new friends may be embarrasing or challenging but take your time and the right people will stick around. Never say 'no' when someone asks you to eat with them and try not to hit the 'snooze' button on your alarm too many times. You will have to work harder in school, but that does not mean you are stupid. The skills for succeeding in college take time to build. When you have a bad day, and you will, please don't think that you have a bad life. This is the starting point of a beautiful and messy adventure, and you have everything you need.

Veronica

I would tell myself that education is one of the best qualities you can have in life nowdays. Its nearly impossible to do anything now without an education. I know you think skipping school with friends not doing homework because your hanging out is cool but how cool is it gonna be when your 25 years old with no education trying to get a good paying job? Not cool at all! When you are stuck working your butt off every day for minium wage why? Because you thought hanging out with your friends was "cool" or how about working with someone who finished school went to college although you may know more when it comes to getting the work done but he has the degree, so you make not even half of his salary because you didnt think education was important. Hate to tell you but thats reality thats how it happens in the real world. It may not seem that important now but i promise you your future depends on it. Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Your choice....

Danielle

I would tell myself that I should be open-minded to other career options. Going into college I had a set mind-frame that I was going to be a veterinarian and major in Biology. After my first semester at college I found out that I was definately not cut out to be a Biology major and getting a doctorate level degree was a lot harder than it seemed. I would probably tell myself to really think about what I want to be, and bring up Psychology because as I later found out that is a subject that I really do enjoy and excel at. If I knew that before going to college I would have had a much better transition into college life and a much better GPA.

Theresa

Firstly, don't assume that because high school was pretty easy for you that you can use the same work ethic in college. You really need to crack down and learn how to study effectively and put in more time than the minimum or however long it takes to finish your daily homework assignments. More importantly though, you really have to be prepared to branch out and get to know people. I know that you are uncomfortable meeting new people, but you'll be better off putting a lot of effort into meeting new people than staying in your comfort zone. Don't assume that you know what you want to do with your life, or even that you know where you want to go to school, no matter how confident you feel your senior year. Apply to more than two schools, look at out of state schools, and maybe just take general classes your first year. It won't hurt your plans, and it will give you a chance to explore what is available at your school. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU GET TO KNOW YOUR PROFESSORS. Don't be afraid to talk to them!

Lisa

Pick a school that you feel comfortable with. Be open and outgoing and try to get know as many people as possible. Make good relationships with your professors.

Sheng

The biggest advice I would give myself as a high school senior is not take public education for granted. I started my education life with free schooling. Now that I am in college, nothing comes with a free label. Receiving an education is great, but receiving a free education is even better. College is not free and comes with an expensive price. If I had known about the financial situation I am in now, I would have worked harder and have tried finding a job during high school. In college, if I do not have the money, I will not be able to continue with my studies because of the stress and the cost of tuition and loans. Applying for work-study helps, but not to the extent where I will be debt free. School studies plus money is a lot do deal with in college that is why I would want to give the advice to my high school senior self to work hard and save it for my education. As a dedicated student and hard worker, with a college education I will be able to reach success and a better living after college.

Carmaletta

The advice I would give myself would be the same advice that I give to my high school daughter who will be attending college in the Fall of 2012 at Kent State: One of the most important aspects in life is getting an education. The more you learn and understand new concepts, the brighter your future will be to accomplish your goals. Focusing on school is your number one priority. Use your knowledge to help others become more efficient in their lives and always listen and use your critical thinking skill in everything you do and don't forget to relax a little to clear your mind. You are responsible for you, which means you have to make life long decisions. Protect yourself sexually, be careful with whom you hang out with and always pay attention to your surroundings. Again, your education is the number one priority in your life.

Shannon

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would give myself a variety of advice about college. When I began college, I was shy and it took me awhile to make friends. It was not until my second semester that I really began to spend time with great people. I would emphasize to my senior self how important it is for me to strike up conversations in class and give everyone I meet a fair chance because I will meet my friends faster. I would also tell myself to stay at school over the weekends because there are always amazing events happening during weekends. Academically, I would tell myself to continue to take challenging, interesting courses that will provide me with a solid background for a future career because I believe that it is very important to never stop learning. Finally, I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible because I am only just realizing how important it is to pay for college as soon as possible. You cannot earn scholarships if you do not apply for any.

Ashley

1. Never stand up on the link when it first stops, always wait until the people in the seat in front of you are getting up and leaving. 2. It is a requirement to live on campus all four years, so be ready. 3. SJU and CSB DO have seprate campus's but we DO go to class together. 4. Everyone is so laid back and nice it is so comforting. 5. The food is great, so don't complain. 6. And just have fun and keep an open mind, because if you don't then you A) will not make friends and B) will hate going to school here. Meet as many new people as possible and find your best friends. That's what I did and it has been the best last two years of my life.

Kendal

Don't be overwhelmed in the first few weeks. IT DOES GET BETTER!

Kimberly

Dear, High School Senior Self: There are many words of advice your older self has for you to keep you from making some of the same mistakes in future life, should you get a chance to do it all over again. 1. Never listen to negative people: they are only negative to you because they are not happy with themselves , and misery loves company. 2. Listen to what Grandma always said: "Never settle for someone you can live with. Wait for the one you cannot live without." 3. Heed the words of the historically philosophical when you hear the words "Never make someone a priority when you are but an option to them." 4. Get away from the boy you are currently dating. He is bad news and you already know it. He will never be anything more than bad news for other girls as well. Do not be afraid to leave him, but make sure you have great friends and family surrounding you at all times to ensure your future safety. 5. When anyone tells you that you CAN'T, look them right in the eyes and say "Oh, Yes I CAN!" and then Prove Them Wrong!

Alisha

Take your time. It's okay. I know things are tough, but your education doesn't need to suffer. Let everything else be. Despite what everyone is telling you, you are loved and it is okay to excel in school. Try hard. Study hard. DO your best. Education is what will help you achieve your dreams in the end. When you graduate, don't wait to go to college. Find what you strive for. Reach and take hold of all you desire in life. Family problems will take care of themselves. You don't need to worry or solve them all. A little focus on yourself isn't bad. Everyone needs,including you, and it's ALL RIGHT to need. It's ALL RIGHT to be yourself. If they don't accept you for who you are, that's their problem.

Katherine

Be open to any type of college and visit many. You don't neccessarily know what college you like until you visit. It wasn't until I visited the College of Saint Benedict that I knew I wanted to go there. Also, be open to both public and private colleges. If you desire small class sizes and more of a community atmosphere, the private schools may be the route to go. Don't be closed of to this type of school due to the cost. There is a lot of financial aid to be offered at these schools. However, if you like larger settings, a public school may your best option. Finally, work hard throughout your education, but enjoy the journey as well.

Julie

I have gotten many things out of my college experience: knowledge, education, and opportunities for growth. It has been valuable to attend because I have become a better, more self-aware and cultured person.

Mary

Since entering college, my eyes have been opened wide to the both the value and difficulty in life. In retrospect, I was an idealistic teenager with dreams of attending college, having fun and pursuing my dreams. As a college student, life has been put into perspective for me and has forced to to become more down-to-earth. Instead of simply idealizing my future, I now have to plan for it. My thoughts revolve around finances, 4-year plans, working a part-time job, managing my time, and learning to be a "grown-up" by taking full responsibility for my actions. From my college experience I have received a perspective on life that has pushed me to organize my life so that I can live it to its fullest potential. Simply thinking about it and perfecting it in my head isn't enough anymore because now is the time to actually perform. This is a valuable perspective because upon entering college, I made a plan for my life, and I now have a clear, eyes wide open vision of what I want to do with my life and who I want to become along the way.

Jessica

Attending the College of Saint Benedict has provided me with developed critical thinking ability. Specifically, ability to critically think about the question: What is the good life; and how can I live it? I have both an academic and personal appreciation for this question and am grateful it is one I have learned to ask. I have received the training necessary to investigate this throughout the rest of my life. That is invaluable.

Rebecca

Though I sometimes feel as though I am attending a college that is not very diverse, I have met many people with very different values and opinions. One class that has sparked a lot of discussion on a variety topics is my First Year Seminar class. It has been very interesting listening to different classmates ideas and opinions on current day issues and topics that relate to our everyday lives. Before starting college, I often would hear that my values and views would be challenged in college. I knew that college would be a time for personal growth and a time to figure out who YOU are. Not only have I began to witness the personal growth in mysef and classmates, but I have also began to think about my values on a deeper level. I am thankful for having chosen a liberal arts college, as i have learned so much from taking classes that span a variety of subject areas. What I have learned and discussed in my First Year Seminar class, along with the rich information that I have taken away from my other classes have began to shape the well rounded person that I strive to become.

Christina

After escaping a seventeen year abusive marriage, returning to the education that I had abandoned at the age of 20 has been the light at the end of a very long tunnel. Convinced that I couldn't make it on my own for far too many years, I am now determined not only to survive but to thrive. Going back to school and learning something new every day has been amazing and although it is stressful to both work full time and go to school full time, I am grateful to be able to set an example for my children: no matter what you have endured, there is a way out and a way up. I am majoring in criminal justice with a focus on victim services and my intent is to use my education in the service of women and children who have made the difficult choice to escape their destructive lives and start anew.

Galen

I have become a better person due to my college experience. This is not to say that I was unsatisfied with myself in high school, but I never felt like I could completely show my potential, or be the exact person I want to be. At college, I have grown into the person I want to be. I am able to express my passions and I have made a group of friends that share common interests, and I know will be my friends for life. I am also able to explore all my options for my future career, and have had so much help along the way. College is a fresh start; you can be whoever you want to be, and college has made me realize that the only person I need to really impress is myself. I would not trade the experiences I have had in the last year and half for anything else in the world.

Hilda

I have enjoyed going to school at the University of Phoenix Axia College. I was very nervous about the process since I have not been to college since I recieved my certification in Medical Assisting in 1990. This college staff is the best at taking student through the whole process. The college has the student do a workshop about how to find your classes and how to submit assignments. They also help students learn the processes of doing research and using the University Library. The teachers are great and are always very helpful. I had a life coach that I had threee appointments with very valuable insights to finding work in this tough economy. My gpa is 3.26 and I am learning new and exciting research about the healthcare administration field. My knowledge has expanded in learning how to write essays and follow instructions. I am 53 years old and hope to return to the job market this year. I graduate on October 24, 2010. My plan is to continue and recieve my bacholors degree in Healthcare Administration. Graduation will be in 2012. Please consider me for this scholarship I promise I will not let you down. Hilda Fisher

Johanna

So far, by attending the College of Saint Benedict I have gained a broad education, one that not only comes from textbook knowledge, but one that has come from real-life situations and experiences. My school provides countless opportunities for me to expand my horizons and try new things, and I take full advantage of those opportunities. When I combine these experiences with the knowledge I have obtained from my classes, I see that I have become a well-rounded and experienced person, one who can make judgments based on past experiences and use them to move forward in life and career. My professors do all that they can to give me the knowledge and exact type of education that I need to get my dream job, and they are some of the most inspiring people I have ever met. I cannot imagine my life not as a student, but I know my teachers will help me get to the point where I am ready for my field of work. Attending Saint Ben's has been the most valuabe decision I have ever made for myself and my eduation.

Theodore

Throughout my continued education I have learned how important it is to be responsible. It is so easy to take the easy way out and not do the things you should be doing but rather the things that you want to do. There are so many distractions going on at college and no one to get on you about doing what is good for you except yourself. Being responsible didn’t come easy for me either it was a hard battle that I still fight everyday. Being married has helped me out a lot with this problem. I have a wonderful wife that makes me want to do better not just for myself but also for the two of us. I have set my goals and have thought long and hard about how to get to them and it all comes back down to being responsible enough to make the right decisions as they come along and keep myself on track.

Nicole

This will be my first year in college. I think it will be valuable because it is my first real experience on my own. I will be moved out of my parents' house and living with a complete stranger. I will become more independent and learn to adjust to a much simpler life on campus. I will meet many new people and take a step toward the rest of my life and what I will someday be doing.

Nancy

I learned three main things during my college experience. The first and biggest learning was how to set a large, lengthy goal and work towards achieving it while still maintaining the same ?deadline? or graduation date despite potentially derailing changes that occur along the way. The second learning was the meaning of true friends who stand by you no matter what. The third learning was how to take responsibility as an adult for your actions and decisions. The value I received for attending college is priceless because obtaining my degree has allowed me opportunities in the professional world that I hadn?t even dreamed of as a student.

Kate

College was one of the smartest things I have ever done thus far in my life. I got so much out of my experience. I was able to study abroad twice, exposing me to experiences and places that I may never be able to explore again in such safe, guided and affordable ways. In college I learned about aspects of history, culture, science and religion that contributes to my life daily, making me a much more well rounded, well spoken person. The professors become mentors, roommates become best friends, classmates become collegues and cohorts in your career paths. I choose a major that has a high employment rate and have never had a problem obtaining employment due to my completion of my degree. Another value of attending college is that it shows yourself and future employers that you are a person who can commit youself long-term to a goal and achieve it. It shows that you encounter many challenges and may desire to quit, but that you are someone who can see it to the end. That is something no one can take away and always something to be proud of, no matter the major or degree earned.

Stephanie

I have strengthened my ability to live independently and have gained confidence in making my own decisions and in the knowledge I have. I have grown as an individual and have found the strength to start to pave the path that leads me through the rest of my life. I have found comfort in knowing that I do not know everything and I shouldn't necessarily know everything. I have found support among friends, fellow students and faculty. All these things have helped me grow as a person and find what kind of person I want to be in life. The support has helped me work through difficult times and helped me realize that I can accomplish what I want. The confidence I have gained will forever be with me as I pursue the many obstacles that I'm sure life will throw at me.

Jacki

Most importantly CSB/SJU taught me how to learn. In my final semester, I made a shoe entirely of masking tape, read several works from the Spanish Golden Age (in spanish), worked on financial statements, and read U.S. Supreme Court cases. The liberal arts education teaches how to think in different ways. I graduated from CSB with a spanish major; now I am a law student. CSB/SJU well prepared me for law school and not just because I took Constitutional Law. I think that the other classes I took better prepared me for law school. I was forced to think in different ways to find a solution for a problem; Golden Age literature taught me to read slowly, critically and analytically as it is very easy to miss something in 15th century literature that is not written in your primary language, 3-D Art taught me to look at problems from a different angle to find a solution that works, accounting taught me a bit about the business world, and Constitutional Law taught me how to read court cases. All of this, combined with previous semesters taught me how to adapt my learning skills to nearly all circumstances.

Alexandra

I would tell myself to not forget about my family. As a high school senior the number one thought is getting out of the house and living on your own. It's taking advantage of the support that has been within arms reach for the past eighteen years. As obnoxious as it was with being questioned everyday of my whereabouts and my personal life, it comes to be something I am sad I don't hear everyday. When I have a bad day, I don't have my mom making me dinner and sitting down to talk, I don't have my little sisters smiling face to make the day a little bit better. I have made great friends up at school, but nothing will compare to my family at home. I would tell myself to not take advantage of them.

Anna

There are two things that you should know before heading off for your first semester of college. First, school does come before fun?or at least it should. If you get your assignments done before you allow yourself to read magazines, play computer games, or stay up late watching movies with friends, it will take a lot of pressure off you, and you?ll feel a lot better about yourself. Some people, including you, do work well under pressure, but that?s not a good reason to procrastinate. You?ll feel a lot better if you get all your homework done in time for a good night?s sleep! Second, don?t worry about finding friends at college. You?ll meet new people almost every day. Some will become your friends, and some will never want to get to know you. You will even meet some who seem friendly at first, but who will disappoint you in the end. Don?t go looking for a boyfriend or girlfriend. Use your time at college to discover all the wonderful people out there. You may end up becoming great friends with someone you previously thought you?d never get along with.

Rebecca

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior, I would have to reassure myself of a lot of things. First, I would reassure myself that I made the right decision in choosing the College of Saint Benedict. I would also need to tell myself that I could handle college life, college classes and all the great things it has for me and to also enjoy the time I had left to spend with high school friends and my family. I would have to tell myself that I'm not going to loose any of those friendships that really matter to me, only add new ones. I would tell myself to get excited for my new life and to not be bothered by minor hiccups in my plan. Overall, I would need to tell myself to relax, take a deep breath, and jump. Thank you for concidering me for this scholarship and giving me a reason to reflect on my life.

Helen

Considering what to say when talking to one's self in the past is never a simple proposition. After completing two years of college, I learned more than I could have ever imagined about myself and the ways in which I learn. The best piece of advice I could give myself as a high school senior would be to encourage myself to get involved in as many activities in college outside of just the bare minimum for class work. The college experience is only as good as the time and energy you put into it, and I failed to do this as much as I should have when I began college. In my second year of college, I started to get involved in clubs and organizations, but I believe that doing so earlier would have made my entire college experience that much better. College can be just be a few years spent with the express goal of earning a degree, but if you get involved in the campus and community, it can be a completely enriching experience, but you only can get that out of college if you start by getting involved.

Stephanie

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would say many things. First I would tell my self that everyone feels homesick. Just stick it out, meet new people, and everything will get better. It just takes time. The more time you spend at school and away from home the better. The second thing I would say is to study. A lot. Good grades come more difficulty in college and you have to work hard for them, but don't give up. The last thing I would say is to get involved. Enjoy what your college has to offer, and getting involved can help you meet new people and give you new experiences.

Caitlin

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to approach college life with an open mind. The points that I have found least successful in my college career so far were caused by giving myself limitations and attachments to ideas and people that held me back. I would want to remind myself that in the college transiton, and in every aspect of life, you should always allow yourself to grow without losing site of yourself. Maintain your identity without holding yourself back, and maintain relationships with those around you without giving up your own goals.

Monica

Transitions require effort, but if you submit yourself to the experience and have a positive attitude the transition from high school to college will come more naturally. Accept that life will be different and try to welcome your new lifestyle. Take advantage of opportunities that move you out of your comfort zone and allow you to meet new people. Make new friends but keep the old ones. Be open to taking risks. Working hard will be important, but having fun is also essential to successfully transition. Balancing your wants and needs is crucial. College will not be easy, but it is more than worth the effort. Live for the present because tomorrow is always a day away.

Bethany

The main thing a student should look for in the right college for them is one that they really want to attend. They need to go to a college for themselves and not for what others want for them. The student should care less about cost and more about what they really want from college. They should go for the location they want and the type of education they desire. The student needs to look into their desired major and weigh whether or not the school is a good choice for education in that major. The student also needs to keep in mind that they will be spending a substantial amount of time on campus, and should therefore like the look and feel of the campus. The student needs to be able to picture him or herself being on that campus to learn and live. To make the most out of a college experience, the student must participate in the school activies. Interacting with those at the school will make the experience the most worth while, and help that individual meet others that will make a huge impact in their lives.

Sara

Your Future! Searching for your college is no easy task, So many questions you will need to ask. The perfect college fit is what you will need That has the tools to help you succeed. You should look online before you go, A bit about each campus is best to know. Start early to visit is the biggest clue, Check out the places appealing to you. Take your time to check them all out, Ask lots of questions if you have any doubt. Stay overnight to get a good feel, Stay in a dorm and see if it?s real. Is it welcoming, safe, how?s the class size? Important questions to realize Are there activities offered that look like fun? Dances, plays and clubs for everyone? Weekend trips you might enjoy a lot? Will the weather be cold or will it be hot? Are your values echoed, does it feel right Or do the actions of students give you a fright? What about the major you will need to decide? Ask about the professors you will have to abide! Would you be excited to start there anew? That?s how it should be as it?s all about you!

Taylor

The best advice I could give for finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is to find a school that makes you feel most at home. If your campus doesn't contain anything that fits your likes and hobbies, then the college experience won't be as great. It is important to find a school with a good program that suits your major as well. However, you most likely won't do as well with your studies if you don't feel comfortable and at home. Attending a college that is the best "fit" is very important and should be one of the most considered objectives when searching for a school. With a campus where you can be yourself, as well as learn from other students, is one that will lead to a great college experience and memories you will never forget.

Anna

You'll know the right school when you step on campus. If you can't afford it, try and find scholarships and aid. Don't go into a huge amount of debt to attend your "dream school" as an undergrad. Instead, pick the next best option, you can save that "dream school" for your graduate degree when, most likely, they'll be paying you to attend.

Katherine

It is important to find an institution that will help one grow academically and as a person. Individuals should seek out schools that provide challenging programs in their area of study, but also offer a wide range of campus activities. Also, one should visit the campus to make sure it is a place they can see themselves fitting in. Most often your first impression of the school will be able to tell you if it is place you can love and grow.

Greta

Inturmural raquetball on Monday, environmental awareness club on Tuesday, free movie night on Wednesday, work study on Thursday night, frat party on Friday...sounds like you've got a full schedule. As you know, most Colleges will offer a multitude of activities to get involved with on campus, in addition to all the things you and your friends come up with. However, the biggest activity in my opinion should always be what you're at school for: to learn, grow, and develop yourself. As a new student to college life, it's easy to do enough to get by, especially with so much going on. Don't let yourself get too caught up in it. If anything, get caught up in your schoolwork. Challenge yourself, even if you don't feel challenged enough by your teachers. Do an extra project, ask questions, start a study group, go all-out on a project...whatever it may be. Just know that when you walk away after four years, your life begins...and and the more you know about yourself, the subjects you studied, and anything else you may have taken with you along the way, the better start you'll have.

Madeline

The best advice that I can give to parents and students abour finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is apply to at least ten different colleges and universities. Apply to some private and some public schools to compare the costs after financial aid is awarded. Visit all of the colleges and universities the student is interested in. I really recommend talking to students enrolled in the college about their experience. Pick a college that specializes in your area of interest. Meet with the financial aid office to explore all available scholarship options. In order to make the best of the college experience, join many clubs and organizations. These groups give students so much experience and options to learn outside of the class room. I highly recommend that all college students study abroad! Also students must take advantage of the career resource center. They have amazing opportunities that the average student is not even aware of. Students should also take advantage of any available intership opportunities. Lastly, don't let drinking and partying consume your life in college, the experience is about so much more than drinking and partying!

Jessica

In my opinion, the most important thing students can do to make sure they find the right college is to visit. Decide whether you want to go to a public or private school, whether you want to study in or out of state, and then visit campuses based on that criteria. I know many people may say to pick a field of study first, but I think feeling at home when at school is the most important thing, the academic stuff will most likely fall into place. Once you have made your choice and are enrolled in your dream school, making the most of what that school has to offer is very important. Joining clubs (in and outside of your field of study) and going to sporting events will not only help you make friends but it will bring you closer to discovering your passions. Making relationships with your professors is also a good idea. It is amazing how intelligent and passionate most proffessors are. Use this to your advantage and learn as much as you can from them.

Michelle

Make sure you feel comfortable; take the time to go to an actual class in courses you may be interested in and sit down with professors. Take full advantage of all the Admissions office has to offer, it's a lot!

Kayla

I would visit as many schools and you can get to also look into the program they have for you major, what their food, room, facilities, and teachers are like. Also decide if you want a public or private school, instate or out of state school first, that will narrow it down a little for you.

Rachel

I would tell parents and students to choose a college that has every major they are looking for, if possible. People change, and you never know what you may find you enjoy and are passionate about. I also would suggest that they look for a school that is the right size! Those who want a community focus and smaller classes should pick a smaller school. Those who are more socially inclined and want to find friends for every activity should pick a bigger one. Visit the schools you are interested and experience the ambience of the place. Most of all, go where you really feel like you can succeed! Do not feel pressured by friends and family to go to a school you hate. Parents, be respectful of you children's choices. College is a time to stand on your own two feet!

Sarah

The most important thing to consider when looking for the right college is what would best suit you as a student. There are many very good colleges and universities, but they won't all fit your needs. Along with this, it is very important to remember that you can always transfer to a different school if it's not working out. You are the one paying to learn, so you should make it an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. Try new things, meet new people, and enjoy your classes.

Amanda

Some advice that I would give to students in finding the right college is find some place that feels right to you. Often times your first impression of the campus is the right one so go with what your heart tells you. It also helps to look at a variety of schools because then you can determine what you like and what you don't like. Whether it's class size, location, activities offered, etc. Be sure to ask questions. Also it really helped me to visit all of the campuses and even to stay over night. This helps you to get a real sense of what college life would really be like. Find activities and acadmeic programs that you would be interested in pursuing. Also make sure that the college you choose allows for you to grow in your own ways, but at the same time supports your morals and values. Make the decision for yourself, no one else can make it for you. Find some place that you can be happy and strive for excellence.

Marie

In finding the right college, be sure you know what you want in a college. Some students go to a certain college because it has the major they want to persure; others choose a college based on the price. Still others are not sure on what they are interested in, in which case they may base their decision on the college experience - large university vs. small college, division one athletics vs. theather/music productions, etc. Also, it is a great idea to contact a student or an alumni from the colleges you are considering. Their opinion tends to be somewhat biased, but they can provide you with first-hand experience and insight about the college, the people, the professors, the campus, etc. Finally, it is very important to visit your prospective colleges; viewing the college online and talking with people pale in comparison to actaully being on campus and experiencing the atmosphere. The most important aspect of the college experience is getting to know new people. Get involved in the campus and commmunity by joining clubs, participating in campus activities, volunteering etc. The people you meet and friends you make strongly impact your college experience.