Eastern University Top Questions

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

Emily

When I started college at Eastern, I was a nursing major. Nursing was a major I knew would make my parents happy, and it was also a major I knew would get me money and a job. This was a good enough reason for me so I entered into the nursing program in the fall of 2012. As time went on, I grew to hate my major. I slowly realized I hadn't entered a major I was passionate about, but rather a major that was practical and boring. I was close minded and simply did things to make my parents happy instead of to make me happy. Half way through my Junior year, I decided change to a major I was truly passionate about; music. My parents were less than thrilled. They withdrew all financial support due to this decision. If I could go back and tell my high school senior self one thing, it would be to go after what makes you happy. Go after what you are passionate about. Open your mind, for there is a world of possibilities that you will experience soon. The world is much bigger than the corner you have experienced.

Nelson

If I could go back in time and talk you myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that college life is more challenging than I thought. I would also tell my younger self not to be intimidated by the deadlines presented on the syllabi because it will be manageable to complete my degree program with high honors. I would tell my younger self to stay consistent in my studies and continue to make an impression on professors and faculty.

Andrew

If I could go back in time to before I went to college, I would advise myself to apply for more scholarships while I still had the time. College, especially my school, can be very expensive, and I did not realize just how much money I would need. I would also advise myself to not pack as heavily as I did. Half of the things I packed I ended up not even using, so it just takes up space in my dorm room. Lastly, I would advise myself to not put off my packing until the day before I left. Having to pack everything up in one night was a very stressful process that could have easily been avoided if I didn't procrastinate on it!

Alexandra

I would tell myself to talk to my guidance counselor more and utilize all the tools that she had. Even though I was stressed about where I was going to college or what I was going to study, I need to just enjoy the ride and excitement because it is not going to last long. I would tell myself to listen to my mom more, she knows far more than I sometimes I give her credit for. I need to start slowly with taking college classes, and allow myself to get used to the college work and schedule.

Robin

Dear Robin, Do not worry about the small stuff because it will all work out in the end. I know that you may think that your future looks bleak now, but college will shape you into a better person. You will meet the most amazing people in college and they will become your lifelong friends, so do not worry about the silly high school friends who hurt you. You deserve the best education out there and you have earned it, so keep your head up and be positive. Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do it, because you are a fighter and you always try your best. College helps you become more confident in yourself and teaches a lot about leadership, do not be afraid of that. Love yourself and ultimately you will be happy in college. Do not worry about not making friends because you will attract the best people. You are an amazing girl, do not ever forget that. Let your faith and intuition guide you in making the right decisions and ultimately you will be happy. Keep your head up and smile. Don't worry about money either, God provides.

Karissa

I would tell myself: Do not be afraid to take chances and go out of your way to help someone out. There are people in need all over the world and what many need is someone to simply listen to them and make them know that they are loved. These will be memories that last. Do not forego any opportunities when it comes to jobs, friends, or serving others because of worries and fears. Looking back, you will ponder why you even feared in the first place. Lastly, fill your life with love and make love radiate from you through your actions and words. Remember that you have been strengthen and empowered by Christ and through Him nothing is impossible.

Karson

I think I would have told myself to focus more on the academics of High School and not so much on the clubs and activities. I wish I would have the time to search and fill out more scholarships so my financial situation would be better off than it is. Other than these two things, I really feel that I was ready for college and transitioned well.

Jamie

To my high school self, don't wait until the last minute to study or do homework! Staying up until 2 or 3 and having to get up for an 8am class is not fun. Also, don't be afraid of trying new things, you will make new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. It is alright if your opinon about something changes; that is a part of growing up and being out on your own. Don't judge others based of the first meeting, oftentimes they are just as nervous and scared as you are. If you are doing bad in a class and have done everything you can to do better but it still isn't working, drop it; don't let your stubborn pride stand in the way.

Lawanda

Believe in yourself, you are smarter than you think you are. Love yourself, no one will love you the way you can love yourself. Stay focused, you can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens you. You are great and you have so much to offer the world, do be discouraged by the challenges you will face, they are there to only make you stronger. Accept the things you can not change and move on, most of all have faith and hope and you will succeed. Put God first above everything.

hannah

Looking back on my high school experience and who I was as a person at that time, I would never go back. College has shaped my life more than anything else. It has made me happier, healthier and more motivated than I've ever been. Knowing that the transition into college scared me to tears during high school, I would tell myself 'don't worry, they future is better! ' I would quote Jeremiah 29:11, as common as that verse is, its words are the best comfort to those going through the scary transition: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future." When I was a high school senior, when the world and my future was so uncertain, I needed to hear that God had a plan for me and that His plan would be good. He still has a plan for me as I go into my senior year of college, with the hopes of a good career and a bright future ahead of me, those words are as relevant to me today as they were then.

Meleana

If I could go in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would say "Save Money". I would say to complete as many scholarships as I can and never give up on hope. I would also say to save my money when I was getting paid than spending it on Unnessessary "Stuff". I would to stay on track with things in school. Get my finacial things done early so I could be on the roll without being stress out at the last minute. To always study and get in the habit of studing every day for each class. Take school seriously. When help was giving out recieve it, do not deny the help. fill-out more than four applications for school. To never think that everything will ride smoothly unless I do the work that need to be done. To start listening to what people say to me and take it seriously when it comes to finacial needs and college. Involved more school activities and be socially involed instead of being anti-social. Start taking notes and study harder because once I start to study more, then the more it become easy to study to do.

Alexus

Make sure you do evey homework assignment that is issued to you. Believe it or not that actually count! Depending on your GPA, you can be awarded many scholarships, and that is less money you or you parents have to pay out of pocket.

Jesse

The advice that I would give myself is Jesse, stay in school, maintain a high gpa and apply apply apply to collges and scholarships. Don't drop out of high school and go to college later because you are going to want to be working. Being in college at 23 Jesse is not fun at all, you are older than everyone else, and when you want to get married, you can't because you don't have a stable job. And apply to scholarships as well! I didn't start doing that when I started college and that messes with my financial aid. Be wise and start school early and focus focus focus. Don't get distracted by things going on and don't allow the fact that mom and dad got divorced to get in the way. I know it hurts and it messes everything up but stay focused and you will be okay. The pain will go away eventually and broken hearts will mend. Don't allow that to mess with you because it will affect you for the rest of yoru life. And always perserve through every obstacle because you are going ot be great in life.

Tyana

Experiencing college life and how difficult it is, if I can go back in time to my high school senior self, I would tell myself to focus because the life of a college student is way more complicated than the life of a high school student. I know when I was a high school senior, school work was a breeze and I was involved in so many things. Being in college now, things are different. The work is harder and I am learning things that high school teachers don't teach you even if they do say that the course is on a college level. I have faced so many challenges when it came to trying to balance activities with school work and a social life. If I can tell my high school senior self just how difficult college can be then at that time I would not have only prepared better for college, but to appreciate my wonderful high school years that I got to have. I say this because you can experience college more than once, but you can never go back to high school and have that adventurous experience again.

Laken

I would tell myself to eat better and pay attention to your weight. Also excercise more than I did. I would teach myself how to write good notes and how to study. Studying is a big part of classes and if you do not know how to do that well you will not do so well in your first couple of tests. Be open to new things and do not be afraid of people. It is hard with so many people that you do not know but do not be afraid of that. People just want to get to know you. Also, be smart about money. Get it and save it. Don't spend it.

Priscilla

I'll start with something you don't have to know in high school: what you want to do with your life. People always ask this, so we think we should have an answer. If someone asked about my plans, I'd say my first priority was to learn what the options were. You do not need to be in a rush to choose what you are going to do with your life. Just because someone is blood related does not make them family. Likewise, just because someone is not blood related doesn't mean they are not family. I would encourage myself to listen to my inner voice & follow my dreams instead of letting “family” tell me I can't accomplish something I want to. Don't let them make your choices for you. Make decisions not just trying to do the right thing, but make sure they are right in your heart and that they are right for you. Make sure to ALWAYS read what you sign, BEFORE you sign it, as it can come back to hurt you later. Finally, I would encourage myself not sweat the small stuff because it is all in Gods hands.

Edie

My four years at Eastern University helped me become a better person, not just an educated one. The faculty, staff, and students at Eastern are concerned with developing the whole person into someone who is actively pursuing his/her passions through family, work, and community involvement. I was surrounded by people who pushed me to expand my horizons, not so I would agree with them, but so I would understand my perspective, my purpose, and my life to my utmost capacity. Through my college experience I didn't just gain knowledge, I became wiser. I grew in my ability to ask questions, think deeply, solve problems, counsel others, and give generously. I developed deeply-rooted friendships with people who I would be beyond proud to even call an acquaintance. I'm not just impressed with the ambitions, potential, and accomplishments of my classmates and friends; I'm amazed by their depth and character, too. I could say that Eastern provided me with the best four years of my life, but it gave me more than that. The time I spent and people there gave me the tools and courage to continually search for and create life's best experiences.

Jessica

My college experience is one that I wouldn't trade for anything. To start, my time at Eastern prepared me for my future career and life paths. I participated in two internships which showed me that my choice of a major in social work was the right one for me. These internships paved the way for my current job working with teenagers in foster care. In addition to my internships I also studied abroad in Spain for a semester, which was not only valuable in improving my Spanish-speaking abilities, but exposed me to diverse cultural experiences and some very interesting and wonderful people (not to mention delicious food!). Another extremely valuable resource that I gleaned from my time at Eastern is a solid network of friends and professional contacts. I still keep in contact with many of my friends from Eastern and lean on them for support, guidance, and comradery. I also stay in touch with several professors with whom I had close relationships, and their guidance to me post-graduation has been invaluable. The experiences, relationships, and career preparation that I gained from Eastern are second to none.

Priscilla

I've learned a lot about resposibility. College is very different from high school in terms of self-discipline. Nobody is telling me what to apply for or learn anymore; I have to find opportunities on my own, and if I want to succeed I need to be alert and independent. My mother can't help me because she is preoccupied running the house and paying the bills, and my sister is still in high school. My father can barely pay his own bills and might have to move away permanantly and quit his job. The only person I can rely on is myself. All these dreams I have about becoming a doctor and going to USC are made more impossible by my economic situation, but I know that with enough persistance I will achieve the impossible. My mother always says, "Focus on what you want and nothing else; There cannot be focus without discipline." Santa Monica College is competative and a one hour commute from where I live- but I attend because I know my tenacity will pay off. If I have to apply to 1000 scholaships I will, because I've learned true focus.

Lidia

My college experience has its ups and downs. Of course finding jobs that correspond with my degree has been difficult as is the state of the country recently. I am always grateful and value that I had the priveledge of an education, but feel college did not prepare me to deal with the expenses and obligations of a working individual's life. I blame myself for not being completely certain on a plan for my education and sort of "going with the flow" as many college kids do. Now that my aspirations of law school are over, I find myself slightly limited in the job market by having "only" a bachelors in Political Science. My most successful positions I have held have nothing to do with my degree whatsoever and I may very well have been able to obtain them without a degree. So this being said, I believe the value of college lies in working toward a goal and contributing to your future. If I had taken more time, I may have done things differently. Though my plans have changed, I do believe it is the road to begin working toward your passion and excellence in that passion.

Laken

My college experience is amazing. I like all but one of my classes and my professors are truly good people and love to teach. I have made good friends. I go to a Christian university and I am very happy with my choice. People are truly accepting me here. It is so valuable for me to go to a Christian University right now for me because I am a very fragile time in my life. I truly believe that if I wasn't here, I wouldn't have grown like I have. I have gotten so much out of what is being taught. I am not the smartest and do not always test the best but I try really hard. I am learning core issues and I can use what I am learning for a life time. If that is not valuable, I do not know what is. i have gotten more patience living in a college dorm and I have learned more about myself. If I do not know myself, I believe that that would be a hard place to be. How can you have relationships with others if you do not know oneself?

Chelsea

My college experience has taught me to ask deep and, sometimes dangerous, questions. Questions posed to the purpose of life and the dignity of humans and the meaning of justice. I continue to ask these questions for there is no end in the pursuit. These questions are eternal and integral to what it means to be a human. College has taught me to own the beliefs and stances that I have. They are teaching me the importance of understanding why I believe in what I believe, that it is my own decision, not that of my parents or my friends. Forming your individuality and learning how to live as an upstanding man or woman in society will allow you to benefit your community and our world through your occupation and your interactions in your neighborhood. College has been invaluable to me. I have been blessed to be surrounded my friends who accept me for who I am and to have professors who care more about my grade and are interested in my well being. I am learning to be an individual and to live in a supportive community of others who desire to pursue the good in life.

Natasha

So much to do, so little time seems to be the statement all college students can identify with. I find myself thinking this quite often. I have schoolwork to do and things with the clubs I am in, and limited time. One thing I am learning with this however, is time management. I am learning how to use my time wisely to accomplish all I need to do while still choosing to make time to spend with friends. This is an important skill that will benefit me for the rest of my life. After I graduate from Eastern I will have many things to balance such as my job, paying bills, volunteering, and possibly a family. Learning time management now will affect me positively since I will probably have several tasks to complete at a certain time and a limited schedule throughout the rest of my life. Attending college has helped make learning this skill possible.

Ryan

For me, the transition from high school to college was quite easy. I made new friends fairly quickly, so that was a huge factor in my transition. That would have to be my advice to myself. If I could go back in time and tell myself what would make the transition easier would be to make friends, and make good friends, quickly. Even being at a Christian school there are alot of students that are not honorable people. I would advise myself to watch out whom I befriended and hung out with. I also would tell myself to depend on God a lot more. I can definitely tell when I should have depended on God for a test, or something of that nature, because of the outcome of the test. The two things i would advise myself to do to make the transition easier would be to, make friends quickly, honorable friends, and to depend on God and what he wants for my life.

Melissa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself when I was still in high school I would tell myself that college is BIG. It is a big deal, a big opportunity and a big adventure. It is something you do not want to miss. I would give myself a real heart to heart about how if I did not go to college my life would be missing something special. College is first and foremost a big adventure, usually reserved for young adults, that gives you an opportunity to do and say things you may never get the chance to do and say again. College is also a big deal. While you?re in high school teachers and parents give you lots of redoes, colleges do not. When you?re a freshman every college might still accept, but by the time you are a junior many of those schools have already closed their doors. So do yourself a favor and study now to keep your grades up. Lastly college is a big opportunity that not everyone gets. A college degree can adds thousands of dollars to your potential income and can make you a better educated person.

Tamara

If I could return as a high school senior, I would have given myself more opportunities to learn my strengths and weaknesses and tested more limits, in a good way. I did everything by the book in high school and it was difficult for me in my first year of high school to just socialize along with all of the other pressures of going away to school. I also would have inquired about community colleges to feel confident with the responsibilities of college before going away to school. Telling myself to go outside of my comfort zone to challenge myself in areas I was not strong in would have helped me to build a part of my character that would have helped me better deal with the stress.

AAron

Hey Aaron, You have no idea what God is about to do in your life. Right now you are planning to go to Deltech part time and that's okay. But it will take you longer to complete a 4 year college that way. Do you really want to still be in college at age 24? You will be able to learn so much music and have so many contacts at EAstern because it's near Philidelphia. I know you think taking a year off is the best way. But just consider how much fun it is to live on campus. Also, you will mess up 2 classes at Deltech due to procrastination and lack of effort. Those low grades are hard to change. Remember to seek God for every decision, no matter how small. He will be more faithful than you imagined. You are a gifted musician and God will use you at Eastern. Hang in there and enjoy the ride.

Bethany

If I were to go back to high school I would advise myself to balance my schedule. Set aside time for fun and studying. That can be difficult in college because you are surrounded by people your own age 24/7, but both are imperative. I would also tell myself not to worry. In high school all I did was worry about class difficulty, finances, and starting all over at a new place. I would tell myself to relax and that it would all be fine. Classes are about as difficult as AP classes in high school. As for the finances, I would say that it will all work out in the end. There's no use worrying about loans that have to paid in four years. Just get settled in and worry about money later. I was really worried about making friends and fitting in, but in college everyone finds somewhere to belong and it's nothing to worry about. Lastly, I would say school is a place to start over, you can be anyone you want to be, just make sure you are true to yourself and don't take the next four years for granted.

Joshua

I would tell myself that it all matters everything that you do in high school will reflect on you even extracurricular activities so be sure to put all of your heart and soul in everything you do. For those who spite you forget and ignore them they are ignorance wrapped up in skin there is no one but God and yourself in this world and it is yours for the taking and also don't be afraid to speak out against those who sckold you because of the way you look including your parents but keep this in mind your time to shine starts now but don't let impair what you're in school after. Be who you are because that is all you can be but you are amazing and you will become a light in this dark world. Forget procrastination, remember proclamation what you want to be an Astronaut for the United States of America.

Allyssa

I would advise myself to attend a Community College or other local, two-year institution before attending a four-year university/college. This would have given me a chance to transition into the university scene and to know which direction I wanted to take my life. On a more personal level, I would have advised myself to just be me. I would give the same advise to anyone entering college or making the transition to be themselves and accept the person who they have become. When someone tries to change their personality or their values for other people, it creates a false sense of security, which ultimately begins to crumble once the person continues to grow. I would encourage everyone to become more comfortable with themselves and who they are so that when they start college it would continue adding positive chapters to their personal book of life.

Nicole

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself that I should try real hard to get a job to help pay for college. Saving money for college is really important so that you can secure your education for your future. I would also tell myself to stay true to myself in college and to get involved in many different activities as well as making tons of friends. Do not be afraid to try new things and meet new people.

Jessica

The advice I would give myself is to never settle for less than your best. Be who God made you to be and never pretend to be anything less that your best. Be open to new opportunities and people. Work hard, have fun and make the best of every situation, whether good or bad. Be honest, be a good friend, be willing to help anyone, no matter the situation. Study hard and work to the best of my ability and always strive to do better. Make plenty of friends and keep them close. Never forget where I have come from and what I have learned.

Anthony

I would tell meself to save up some money, study more, and last but not least fill out my fasfa form online and ontime.

Stephanie

Now that I've been out of high school for almost three years, I've gained some wisdom about college life that I wish I would've known when I first entered my university as a freshman. First, I would encourage myself to join a few clubs/organizations right away. It took me a few semesters to become involved in groups with purposes I care about (such as the environmental group, gender equality group, and an underground student news publication). In these groups, I've made deep friendships and expanded my views of important issues in the world. Also, I would remind myself that it's not embarassingto utilize the academic support center on campus. At first, I felt like tutoring/writing services were only for those with learning disabilities. Now, I realize that almost any student who seeks to better understand a subject or improve their writing can benefit from the university's services. Finally, I would tell myself to get off campus more often: learn to use public transit and experience cultural activities in the city. I think those activities would have enhanced my education and helped me develop my independence and creativity.

Austin

The transition from high school to college was by no means perfect for me. But as a college sophomore, acquiring the ability to reach back two years in time to aid my 18-year-old self through my the transition would be frightening. Undoubtedly, there are things that I could have done differently to make the transition less demanding and more straightforward, such as avoiding specific classes, applying for certain university programs, and avoiding certain company. But with a lack of a process of trial and error comes a vacuum where wisdom and experience should otherwise be found. I value the learning process that I went through to arrive where I am today - a more knowledgeable, understanding, sophisticated and mature person. And I'm still experiencing the same process as I press on through my remaining years as an undergraduate student, and ultimately as I advance through the rest of my life. Because of this insight, I would be truly fearful of how I would go about assisting my past self through the transition, as any one learned experience gained is infinitely more valuable than facing an easy process.

Olivia

If I had the chance to go back, I would advise that I go into college with a fresh start.

Isaac

I would tell myself to stop thinking about accepting other schools, Eastern was the right choice.

Kathryn

The most important thing to consider when selecting a school is how the school will help you grow. It is important to balance a school that can help you specialize in your field as well as cultivates an environment that encourages personal character development and maturity. The balance in a school is important. If there is too much emphasis on academics, then the students burn out and get depressed. If these is too much emphasis on social life, then the money is wasted on a drinking degree. The most important things can be summarized in this: imagine who you want to be at your most successful time in your life, and now consider what it would take to get there, who you would want to be there with you, and what would challenge that future you. These are the things that should be there for you in the school you choose. Broaden your horizons, challenge yourself, and do it with special friends cheering you on.

Chrishaw

Just basically go for a college that best fit your learning type. A college almost like the high school you graduated from.

Danielle

There are many factors to consider when searching for the "perfect" college. In fact, many people tend to forget just how many there are. It is not just Ivy league vs. Non-Ivy league or Expensive vs. Inexpensive. After choosing the specific type of college you want to go to, you must then narrow down the hundreds of college that fit that same criteria. This decision must not made in haste, but diligently thought about. Entering a college is much like entering a relationship. It can't be one-sided , you must like the college and the college must like you. The college you choose must cultivate YOUR talents and abilities. If the college is unable to, this is not the college for you. This is why we should accept a rejection letter with thanksgiving! It just prevented you from entering a terrible relationship. When you finally meet the right one or find the perfect match, your college experience will undoubtedly be the best ever. Of course there will be the unwanted visits to the student accounts office and extremely hard exams; But these will also be the greatest times as well. Absorb all you can and grow! Good Luck

Elisabeth

Pray about where you're going. Do not go for a job that you want in the future. Go because you love to learn and you're interested in having an education. Go somewhere where you are out of your comfort zone enough to actually grow. Never go to a school where you feel like you aren't challenged. Also, go to a school where you will receive life experience through giving back to people. Don't make your college education all about you.

Austin

Think about what makes you come alive and what peaks your interest, no matter how lucrative or not its respective career may be, and find the colleges with the strongest program in that area. Keep in mind what kind of surrounding area you could thrive in as well when choosing which campus to attend.

Carly

Selecting a college that is right for you is a hard and tedious process. My advice for students is to visit as many campuses as possible. You should be sure to have an open mind about each campus, because you will have to spend a majority of your time there. One should make sure to you do research on what each college has to offer. My advice for parents is to be supportive of your child as they make their decision. You should make sure to let them know that you are there to help and support them as they go on to further their education. I am grateful that I have such involved parents who were with me every step of the way.

Andrea

Picking the right school where you will spend years of your life preparing for your future is a big deal and there are a few words of advice I would give to those who are about to go through the process of searching for their next educational step. Don't feel under pressure to know what you want to do with your life vocationally the minute you walk out of high school, you will figure it out. If you have an idea of what you want to do that is a good first step for guiding you to a school that has specific programs. Look for a school that is in an area you enjoy whether its city or small town, look for a school that gives you options for experiencing life whether it is through extracurricular activities or studying abroad, look for a school that fits your wallet and personal school loan limit, remember you do have to pay those one day. The most important advice to give for college is to get the full experience. Make friends with good people, work hard, and take every oppurtunity you get to experience new parts of life!

Amy

not sure

Jenny

My suggestion to students and parents who are trying to find the right college is to visit campuses, sit in on as many classes as possible, and talk to both faculty and students who are in the programs you are looking at. Its too difficult to get a true sense of the school without spending a decent amount of time on the campus. If the oppurtunity is available, I would suggesting spending a day and night with a current student. That will give you a nice idea of the warmth of the community and the condition of on campus housing and dining services. Once in school work hard at managing your time by keeping up with your assignments and also leaving time for fun social times. Implementing a daily planner or calendar is really helpful. Also, forming reliable groups to study with is invaluable. And take full advantage of your teachers assistance and office hours. Most teachers are more than willing to help you with your work or life outside of class. They can provide you with direction and inspiration your peers may not be able to.

Elizabeth

I would tell them to definitely go and visit the college they are thinking about attending. It's much more beneficial than just researching it on a website. It allows you to get a feel for the community of the college and also a general sense of what goes on from day to day . Even staying over a night or two with a student that goes there, and/or attending a class can be very beneficial in helping you decide if the school is right for you. As far as making the most of out your college experience I would encourage new students to live on campus, and also to not be shy when making new friends. Everyone is pretty much in the same boat and I have found that establishing friendships early on helps make the transition process from highschool to college go way smoother than it otherwise would go.

Kevin

My biggest advice would be to look at many different colleges in many different areas. Physically visit lots of campuses to get a feel for what types of colleges there are out there. It's good to know what you don't want from a school as much as what you do want. Go to big and small schools, city and rural, near and far, just don't limit yourself to one type. You may surprise yourself by visiting a school you never thought you would like by finding out it was different from what you expected. Don't let your pre-concieved ideas about particular places hold you back. Visit the school on a 'non-visitor' day to get a feel for the energy and atmosphere the school really has to offer. Find out if the school is as personable as you need it to be. Make sure your college looks and feels like a place you know you will feel comfortable and at home at because it will be your home for 4 years! My last advice is, have an open mind and let yourself see what kind of experience you want college to be for you.

Christin

Picking a college is an incredibly important and life altering choice. It is important to look at all different kinds of schools before making the big decision. If possible, make overnight visits to get a feel for classes and social life at the school. Make sure to take into account financial situations and possible career paths. Don't settle for something if you are not completely happy because college is important and you don't want to be unsatisfied during your time there. Once the college has been chosen, there are many things you can do to make the most of your experience. Take advantage of extra-curricular activities. It is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Time management in college is crucial. You have to balance the time you spend with friends with the time you spend studying. Definitely develop relationships with professors because they have a wealth of knowledge and life experiences to share. Go to class and study hard! You are responsible for yourself in college so don't waste your time. If you end up unhappy, do not be afraid to transfer; you shouldn't have to settle when it comes to college.

Abby

I would have to tell students especially to follow their heart. Parents only desire what is best for a student but the student alone knows what is best for them. The best advice would be to be aware of oneself. This awareness can include a person finding the perfect college for themself or simply realizing that college may not be for them right now. If a student enters college without the heart and desire for to be there then "making the most" of the entire college experience will be futile. Students that are ready to embark on the college adventure can make the most of it by simply finding what they love and pursuing it. Parents will find joy and "the most" in knowing that their student is growing, maturing and being challenged by the college environment of which the student has enrolled.