Emory University Top Questions

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

Mary

My experience at Emory not only provided me with a well-rounded, high quality education, it provided me with personal skills to be a successful, organized, and motivated individual. The Emory staff always maintained very high expectations for its students; this taught me to always go above & beyond. Do not settle. Set goals, work towards them, achieve them, and contine on. You will hit rough times, however, there is no reason to quit. By upholding this philosophy, I believe that I can create change in the world, help others, achieve my personal and professional goals, as well as always continue to learn. My education at Emory was priceless, as it has created a foundation for my bright and successful future.

Sharon

College was a fantastic academic and social experience with great challenges and achievements in study and social ventures.

Jennifer

If I were to be able to go back in time and advise myself based up the experiences I have encountered, I would have done things vastly different. Jennifer, don't alow yourself to be distracted by people around you who do not have your own values and determination for success. Life, and school will have its difficult days but you must not allow the challenges to sway your futures desires and dreams. Don't be intimidated by someone who knows more than you and seek a mentor who is where you want to be to guide you to your goals. If it is your dream to continue your education stray away from taking too much time off before you return back to school. The longer you are away from exercising your brain in a academic setting the harder it will be for you to return or adjust when you do return. Lastly believe in yourself because you can do anything that you put your mind to.

Naureen

The American minority experience can be draining but also intellectually stimulating when given enough room and respect to think about one?s own ideas. Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood and later in a mixed environment of Hispanics and African-Americans, there was never a way for me to ignore what my friends learned at Bible study, the pounding reggaeton blasting in every CD player, or the different political identities they developed through each of their experiences. Whenever someone asks, ?Where are you from?? to which I reply ?Florida,? the immediate response I am given is, ?But where are you really from?? The second question usually comes from a place of utter disbelief that a brown girl with my features could be American. However, after coming to Emory, I have observed how differently, and openly, American minorities are received, how in every individual, the physical and intellectual outlooks as a single entity distinguish their values and convictions as the diversified American. As a high school senior, I would have told myself that my "non-American" look only reminded me that I am a child of many cultures, absorbing beliefs and differences of philosophy, and in that way, very American.

David

be very careful on who you hang out with because you are not going to make new friends after first year. and study hard because it's all money. money is such a big mess. it's a problem.

Olivia

First and foremost, college is not high school. It is an entirely different ball game and doing the best that you can is what really counts. There are going to be young adults from many different parts of the world that are going to challenge you to be your best. Realize that grades do NOT define you. As long as you honestly gave everything you had to give, be happy with yourself. Secondly, get involved! High school often defines a place for all of us, but college is really where you can be independent. Branch out and try things that you would normally be apprehensive towards! The newly found independence can often swallow us whole. Remember that you always have a support system at home, and they are only a phone call away. Not only is it hard for us to adjust, it's hard for parents to let go. Use the campus resources; that's why they are there! Professors are actually human, believe it or not! Usually they have the most experience on campus, and often times have the best remedies to get through the day. Just stay true to yourself, and who you want to become.

Jennifer

Calm down, Jenn! Everything, even getting accepted into college, making friends, and doing well in classes, is going to run its course and you will be okay. I know that you're a wreck now, contemplating how you're possibly going to manage being away from home and succeeding with school. But trust me, since I'm going through it now, that everything will fall into place. I do have a few pointers though. First, make sure that you apply yourself in every aspect of college life: classes, friends, extracurriculars, and volunteering. I know the classes aspect of that four-part map is what's most important to you (it still is, even in college!), but keep in mind that finding the right people to associate with is vital as well. Remember, don't change who you are or alter your moral standards just to fit in-- you're stronger than that. Stick up for what you believe in and you'll find the friends who will really make you happy. Also, stay involved in activities outside of class, like diversity groups and volunteering around Atlanta. It will help you spread your wings as well as keep you grounded!

Colin

"Why doubt yourself?"- I took the advice very seriously, because one's future self does not travel backwards to share advice often. As talented and passionate creatures, humans must engage and explore while they still have time. A college experience provides a blossoming human with intellectual, physical, cultural, spiritual, and social pathways to embark upon amongst a large group of similarly motivated people. Unfotunately, I now recognize that students rarely take full advantage of the endless and diverse opportunties offered at college. Such failed capitalization results from an inclination to doubt oneself in the face of numerous unfamiliar activities and commitments, such as the Classical Guitar Ensemble or the Debate Team.

Jorge

College life can be a time of great change and new experiences. Don't be shy about meeting new people and trying out all the new experiences that are available. Distancing yourself from others just because you don't know them is a bad way to start out your college experience, but you must also watch out who you hang out with to not get dragged into things that you know are wrong. Try to find people who have similar tastes to you, but also try to do at least one new activity each term to broaden your horizons. Living away from your family is going to be difficult, so it will help if you set up a regular time for calling home and seeing how everyone is doing to keep yourself from getting homesick. Make sure you get plenty of rest because the classes will be harder than you are used to, and try to find study groups to help you out when you are having trouble in a class. Get to know your roommate well if you have one, because having someone to hang out with will make the change in your lifestyle easier to manage.

Katherine

Based on my experience at college, the best advice I could to myself as a high school senior would be to ask questions. I think the biggest problem that I have had with transitioning to college has been learning how to ask for help when I?ve been confused about decisions concerning my academic life. I would encourage myself to email teachers when I was excited about their work and to make more connections based on intellectual or academic interests. I would emphasize that I should email more often in general and try harder to keep in touch with people. When I was transitioning to college, I didn?t realize how much of my life would come to involve academics. Staying on top of my responsibilities at school is always more fulfilling when I?m keeping up with my work and enjoying the people I?m around. I would tell myself to welcome the changes or challenges and to be excited about the incredible opportunity to learn with great professors and amazing friends.

Debarati

When deciding on your undergraduate education, reputation matters, but above all, consider how well you can do within your concentration. While graduating from a Top Ten University is always impressive, it may be more so if you graduate at the top of your class from a smaller college or one that is less competitive. Also, be sure to look at other resources the university has to offer. I know you have always wanted to be a physician, so make sure you pick a college that will provide you with additional resources that you need to succeed in that field. However, definitely have a backup plan if you change your mind. Lastly, if you haven't learned already, you will learn that college is one of the few opportunities where you are expected to make mistakes. Use these mistakes to learn and improve your understanding or experiences. Do not allow yourself to give up on your dreams or ambitions because of a mistake you may have made, and learn to overcome any academic obstacles. Learn to have fun, and deviate from your plans every now and then. You never know what new passion you may discover.

Paige

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would give myself the following advice, make the best of the opportunities available by being involved with groups or organizations that would assist in demonstrating qualities or skills such as leadership, innovation, volunteer spirit, etc. in addition to mastering the classroom educational skills. I have now come to the realization that universities look not only at academics, but they seek well rounded individuals with the capacity to excel both in and out of the classroom. Colleges are in pursuit of students that are consistent in their behaviour be it through involvement with a particular interest group, accomplishments in the classroom by means of examinations and grades to produce citizens that can make valuabe contributions to both the university and society. In addition, I would embrace every opportunity to participate in school trips and activities to gain the exposure while developing a sense of independence. These qualities and attributes combined would assist in good time management while preparng me to function and make sound decisions on my own.

Erica

I remember the feeling I experienced when I read my acceptance letter into Emory; that confusing mixture of excitement and apprehension. As Icompleted my senior year of high school, it became more difficult to distinguish the more potent emotion. I would be casted into a new community, without the familiar faces I had grown up with or the simple routine I was accustomed to. Although the prospect of freedom was alluring, I believed it would be accompanied by anxiety and even loneliness. What made the uncertainty of college?s new andchallenging environment was my fear that I would be doing it alone. Now, after surviving and enjoying almost two years of college, I wish I could have assured my high school self that by utilizing the resources available, thetransition would be more of an adventurous journey than an arduousfeat. Along with programs geared specifically towards creating a wonderful freshman year experience, the students and administration at this school show a genuine effort in helping students excel in all aspect of campus life. The biggest piece ofadvice I would offer, however, is to trust in my own strength, because too often what we think we need, we?ve had all along.

Abigail

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to apply early decision to a college. When I was not accepted to my first-choice school, I was absolutely devastated. I reluctantly filled out the rest of my applications and decided to apply to Emory as an afterthough, and only because my two aunts had attended the school. After I was accepted, I came to visit and immediately fell in love with Emory. I knew this would be the perfect school for me and could not be happier with my choice. I now know that my first-choice school would have been a terrible fit and cannot believe how upset I was when I was not accepted. The truth is, people can find a way to be happy at whatever college they choose to attend, all that really matters is keeping a positive attitude. The message I would like to send to high school seniors is not to get caught up in the craziness of the college application process and to know that you will end up at the right school for you.

Amadu

Explore. That is all I would have to say to my high school self who was entering college. Explore new oppurtunities, explore new relationships, explore the world. As a senior I was a shy, timid and reserved child. I still am in many respects, but I think with a little push my younger self would have been more exploring. By explore I am urging my younger self to immerse themselves into the college experience and all it has to offer, meet more people, take an odd class, join a cool extracurricular Anything, really. I just wish I had been less reserved and shy upon entering college, but they say hindsight is 20/20. With the right push I might have has a different first semester experience at college,, and I, like everyone else, like to think that it could have turned out better.

Kevin

To think twice about acting on impulses, and to think twice about watching TV before working on your academics. Also, to reach out to your professors for help since they really do care about your best interests

Sara

If I could go back in time, I would tell my high school senior self not to worry about the name of a school and to trust that everything would work out in the end, although I probably wouldn't have believed myself (after all, that was exactly what every adult had been telling me all year). I ended up at the last school I thought I'd attend and I could not be happier. There were many times where I stressed out and even cried over making my final college decision, and I wish I had relaxed a bit more so that I could have enjoyed myself more and made the college process much less stressful. Usually, I am a very laid-back person and I tend not to get upset easily and I wish this normal aspect of my personality had translated into my college applications and decision. However, I have now learned (albeit the hard way) to trust in myself that things will work out the way they're supposed to.

Amanda

When you are first trying to make decisions about college, find out as much as you can before committing yourself. Attend as many information sessions, open houses, and tours as you possibly can. There is nothing wrong with being excited about college. Even if you do not necessarily like the university they are presenting about, you can usually find some helpful tips about college life in general. Like when you hear people tell you that college will be hard, and you can?t simply cruise along as you may have done in high school, they aren?t simply trying to scare you. Turns out most of that stuff is true. Yes college is meant to be fun, and there?s nothing wrong with enjoying your new found freedom and going completely nuts the moment you get there. Try new things and explore all you can, because you never know when a great opportunity will disappear. Make sure that no matter what you do, however, you never lose sight of your real goal. You are here for an education, and in the end, all that will matter is that you learned something of worth.

Alexandria

As a college freshman I find myself wondering what kind of person I would have been if I knew certain information whilst I was a high school senior. For example, I made the wrong choice in college. If I had known then how vital the college decision was I would have spent more time during the decision process in order to find which college suited me best. Also, I would have bought the car that I promised myself for graduation before I applied for FAFSA, because I would have known that if I waited then I would end up spending that money on the first year of college after maxing out the amount of federal loans I could take for that year. The final thing I would advise myself on is to relax and pay attention to small details because time goes by so quickly and if I do not cherish the many minute moments within it I would deeply regret not making the time for happiness. I would tell myself that the key to success is happiness. If I am happy then all accomplishments that I make result in pride and with that comes success.

Lara

Congratulations on being accepted into the college of your dreams! You must be enjoying your senior year with a feeling of relief, but just make sure not to get too lazy with your schoolwork. College schoolwork is on a completely different level than high school, and you have to really focus and work hard. It might be a little overwhelming at first, with all the new friends, environment, opportunities, and professors that you are surrounded by, but remember that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. You may feel pressured to get great grades in such a competitive school, but you also have to focus on your personal well being. College is all about a balance between school, work, and social life, and you cannot allow one of those aspects to overpower the others. Work hard in school but also make sure to save a little bit of time for some fun for yourself! Work to the very best of your ability and put 110{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} effort in everything you do, and you will be amazed with what you will achieve.

Jakeysha

I would tell myself to prepare for some real studying. My study and work habits from high school will not be very effective in college. I should become familiar with the idea of completing my homework and projects on time or early, if at all possible. I would also warn myself about financial planning. High school is the best time to apply for scholarships because my first choice school is not cheap, and once I get in college I will forget to keep applying regularly. Mom and dad will always be there if I need money or support, but college is a good time to learn how to be a self-sufficient adult. I would also tell myself that in college a lot of young adults have a tendency to worry too much about the future. I should have long term goals, but I should also be flexible and do what is best for me. Depending too much on one career could prevent me from finding one that truly interests me. Finally, just relax, learn, have some fun, and make new friends because it will all work out in the end.

Kyuhee

Don't put so much emphasis on school rank and prestige. The most important factor to think about are how well you'll fit in at the school- you're spending the next four years at college and you don't want to go through it apathetic and dissatisfied. You can make great friends anywhere, of course, but how much will you like the student body? How much will you like the atmosphere and spirit of the school? College is a time to grow academically and socially- don't stunt that by choosing what you think will look best to others. You can get a great education anywhere if you really apply yourself, so it's important that you focus on each college's lifestyle and attitude. No matter which college you choose, make sure to put yourself out there as soon as possible and get involved in what you're truly interested in. Try to get out of your box and connect with people you would normally ignore or feel disinclined to become friends with. Do new things, and don't be afraid of the consequences.

Hillary

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to work on my time-management. This has been my main problem in college. I have this mentality that I will always get my work done, but I might just lose sleep over it sometimes. While many find this acceptable in their academic lives, I know that it is very unwise for many reasons, most importantly because it causes me so much unnecessary stress. By putting off work until the last minute, I am hurting myself not only academically and mentally, but also physically, and not taking proper care of one's own body is simply a sign of immaturity. I would tell myself that being involved on campus and off campus is very important. Spending time with friends, studying with classmates, volunteering, and working are ALL important things to do. Find the time to do these things; work them into a schedule that will still allow time for eating three meals a day, sleeping at least seven hours a night, exercising at least thirty minutes a day, and finishing school-work on time and without unnecessary stress.

Esther

Don't lose sight that you are going to college for yourself to follow your own dreams, not the dreams of your parents or friends. College is a great time to learn and be pushed out of your comfort zone.

Ross

The most important thing I would tell a myself as a high-school senior is not to limit myself by applying to only one school. Although I applied Early Decision to Emory University, was accepted, and am thrilled to be at Emory, I always wonder about where else I could've gotten into and what it would've been like going elsewhere. I think its important to apply to a multitude of schools so that you not only have financial options, but truly find the school that suits you best. Additionally, I would tell any high school senior to go into college with an open mind. College is definitely a time of self-discovery; you might going into it thinking one way, however; you will always leave thinking differently. Not only do you learn a tremendous amount in the classroom, but you learn a lot about social interaction and relationships. I have learned the importance of pursuing what I truly care about and maintaining strong, intimate relationships, two things that were difficult to grasp in high school. The transition from high school to college can be easy or difficult; you just need to prepare yourself for it.

Jim

College was a great time for me to learn not only about academic subjects, but about my personal self. Given the opportunity to speak to my high school senior self, I would sit him down and explain to him the great time I'll have in the next 4 years of my life and the personal development I will undergo. But I would warn myself to make sure I am grounded in my goals, beliefs, and values. I had moments in my college years when I was sidetracked and overwhelmed by the independence and freedom I had come to experience, in addition to the opportunities I were never presented prior to college. I would caution myself to fully take advantage of the great experiences college has to offer, but to not forget who I am or what defines me as me, and to prevent myself from becoming defined by those things around me.

Megan

I would have told myself to learn how to study and have time management. While I was in high school, I didn't really need to know how to study. I would just take down notes and listen in a class, and I would get A's on my test. Time management is important since you don't have the same classes everyday, so you need to use that "free" time to do homework and study.

Benjamin

Benjamin, look at me. Don't dump your girlfriend of a year and a half just because you see a pretty girl on campus. You have to realize that, since you're being homeschooled, you haven't experienced a lot of the real world yet. So be careful. Like they say, don't do anything your parents wouldn't do. Get ahead on your work early. Don't wait till you have four papers due in the same week. It's not smart. And you're going to college to be smart. If you start to fall behind, don't give up. You'll make it through. And with your friendships, watch yourself. You tend to give in to your feelings too easily, but reason DOES have it's place in decision-making. Remember that. Also remember to call home every so often. Your parents will miss you, let me tell ya.

Hadiza

Make sure to keep your priorities straight

Kristin

I believe that since entering college, I have learned so much about how to interact with other people and gained perspective on what it means to be me. I would encourage "senior-me" to make a lot of the same decisions I have made so far--get involved, abstain from activities that result in conduct violations, and approach each subject with an open mind. Granted, I would have some operational knowledge about better professors to take and who my friends around campus would become. But I feel that the path I have traveled so far has managed to shape me in ways I would never be able to conceptualize without that sheer process of experience. I would exploit an element of hindsight, however. I learned in my first semester last year about my autoimmune condition. Due to shame, feeling "too busy," and a number of other ridiculous excuses I delayed seeking treatment. Given the chance to relive my entrance experience, I would have opted to take advantage of health services earlier rather than living with illness, hospitalization, and cycling through multiple medications. Though in keeping with my experience theory, I feel that also taught me the importance of being assertive.

ELAINE

Stay focused on your classes. Make new friends from diverse cultures. Volunteer and help others who are less fortunate. Take advantage of the offered services. Find time to relax and enjoy the experience!

Andima

The best thing a student can do to find the right college is to interact with the students who are currently attending the college. To further elaborate, a student should go beyond the college tour and information session, and spend a day or so at the school with a current student. Then you are given an opportunity to learn what the make up is of the school community. Another important thing both students and parents should do is come up with a couple things that they are looking in for in a school that are not negotiable. For example size, location, degree programs, class size, or social life. Once you find the school with a couple of these things, it should be easier to overlook things that are less appealing about the school. The fact is that no school is perfect, so instead you want a school that provides you with what you need to be happy. That way you learn to enjoy your college experience by focusing on the things that you primarily enjoyed about the school, and taking full advantage of them.

Shaila

College is where you find lifelong friends and a place where all your dreams can come true. If one works hard and puts forth one hundred percent dedication, ultimate goals can be achieved. It becomes really hard to balance your social life with your academic life, but one thing I have learned is to ALWAYS put your education before your social life because in the long run, it is only that which will help you gain a successful future. You make your own decisions and choices in college; it is up to you to chose the right ones. You will seldom choose the wrong option, but that is how you will learn-from your mistakes. In college you make several mistakes, but you only become a better person from fixing those mistakes. It really is true when people say, dreams at college do come true.

Alice

Really do active research as to what you want in a school and what the school offers. Without a good basis of knowledge of what you're looking for, you could potentially have a very miserable 4 years.

Saagar

Visit the colleges. Don't just ask your tour guides questions; ask the regular students. If you can, let your student spend a night or two on campus without supervision. The campus and it's students change when there aren't parents around. It's this change that will help you determine if this is the right school for your soun or daughter. Never deny your child anything college-related. These four years are precious; each day is one-of-a-kind. As long as they are safe, you have nothing to worry about when your child takes on a new endeavor.

Rachel

Follow your heart.

Esther

I think it is important to take people's advice with a grain of salt. Individuals' own experience and opinions of a particular college will all be different. The best thing I did before choosing my college was going to the campus, seeing and hearing everything with my own eyes and ears, and picturing myself in it. Usually there is a couple of colleges that will stick out as exceptional and "right" for the student. In terms of making the most of the college experience, try to experience and enjoy all the resources and opportunities made available by the college. Explore the library, talk with the professors, participate in a research project, join an intramural sports team... As a third year in college, I am still surprised by so many different aspects of the college that I have yet to explore. Networking is also crucial, especially when looking ahead into the future and thinking about possible career choices. Be friends with the professors, and listen to the professionals of the job markets. Once you leave the college setting, it is hard to find opportunities for learning, exploration of future possibilities, and forming valuable relationships.

Melissa

To all of you bright-eyed, high-school students: Before you can attempt to make the most of your college experience you must first find your soul mate, your educational soul mate that is. The school whose admission letter you will accept should seem as though it were made for you. Research and visit as many as you need to, and start as early as possible. Once you discover this extraordinary place dive right in. Take advantage of anything and everything that sparks your interests. Your professors will become your friends and your friends will become your family. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so make the most of it. And to all of you parents: The day is fast approaching in which you will have to say that first, tearful goodbye. In preparation for that day I have just four words for you: stand by your child. Stand by him when he chooses that perfect school. Stand by him when he gets accepted, as well as rejected. And stand by him when he leaves home to explore the new world he has chosen. Do this, and you will have helped your child in the greatest possible way.

Loretta

Finding the right college is more than just finding a college that you can afford. Don't rule out a college just because you don't think you can afford it, take the time to look into the financial aid available to you. Also make sure you visit the college before you enroll so there aren't any big surprises on the day you move in. If you're unsure about what you want to major in, go to a liberal arts college that has a lot of majors available to you so that you have options and aren't forced into a major you don't like. As far as experiences are concerned, never be afraid to skip out on something if you don't feel comfortable. It is good to go out side your comfort level at times, but it's also important to limit your stress level and stay focused on your grades.

Alexia

Finding the right college can be a daunting task. When I began my search, I wrote down all of the aspects that I would want my dream college to embody. After I made my list, I started with the most broad trait; I wanted to be close to home. Then I narrowed my search to colleges within 100 miles of my home. Initially, I came across ten colleges that I wanted to attend. From there, I looked at what I could afford to pay for college and how much financial aid I would be receiving. In the end, I chose to attend Emory because of their dedication to the academic success of their students and career success of alumni. At Emory, to welcome freshman students they exposed us to all facets of the extra-curricular community at the University; that program helped me to decide how I could make the most of my experience in college. I also quickly learned that having effective time management can make college much easier so that you can make time for a social life. Being involved in other activities outside of academic leads to a successful college experience.

Judith

Take advantage of college open houses before deciding which college to apply to. If after visiting the campus, the student is still comfortable with the atmosphere go ahead and apply. It is very important to be comfortable with your surroundings when away from the familiar.

Karina

More often than not, high schoolers (and especially their parents), spend an inordinate amount of time selecting colleges. Every student dislikes their campus food, thinks that their dorm is too small, and even that drinking is a large part of college life and that students only socialize with their own racial group, even if the school is racially diverse. To make the most of the college selection process and subsequent college experience, look for a college with the size that you think is most suitable for you. Calm down, because everyone eventually finds their group of friends, but think carefully about whether you want a more intimate small community or a large bustling one. Of course, academics and financial aid must be the first priority. Without academics, what is the point of college? Without financial aid, how can you even attend the college? But once you settle those issues, just remember to consider the size of the school. Once you narrow those down, any college you pick will be suitable since colleges truly are more similar than different. What you make out of your college experience will ultimately lie in your own hands, no matter where you are.

Angela

Make sure that you visit the college and when you do, you can imagine yourself as a student there. Also, the college should be able to offer you an outlet for your passions and hobbies even if it has nothing to do with your career choice or major. For example, dance, IM sports, music etc.

Jennifer

Try new things. Try new academic classes that you thought you wouldn't be interested in. Talk to people you wouldn't normally talk to. Work hard but have fun.

Erica

Choose carefully, but it is likely that no matter where you end up, you will find your niche. Mainly, don't worry too much about what college you end up at.

Jennifer

Make sure that the college is in an environment that you know you will enjoy - it helps motivate you a lot more than somewhere where you aren't sure you'll be happy. Look into the types of people that attend the school and read into teacher accessibility, class size, etc. and make sure it's a good fit for you. Don't go somewhere that you have to convince yourself you'll be comfortable at. If you're not happy, you won't do well. It's better to go to an average college if you know that it will give you a better experience than a more higher-ranked college that you have heard negative things about. Definitely visit the campus and talk to the students.

Tara

While making a college decision, let your child decide what is best for him or her. Do not push your kid past his or her limits by taking years of SAT prep in the hopes of acceptance to an academically prestigious college. Students will get into these schools on their own merit, so basically your child will be sinking. Have fun in high school, you will work plenty hard in college. Stay focused and you will get it done!

Neza

The advice I would give them is to make sure and go and see the school personally. When you do that, you will come to know if the environment is right for you or not. But in addition to the typical tour, they should sit in on a class or stay the night. Another advice is that make sure you are comfortable with the weather!

Yingxue

Researching colleges is vital to helping make the right decision in the final decision making process. However, while facts and statistics about the school helps alot as information that is needed to help sift through the many possibilities, I think the final decision is based on the actual visit to the school itself. Many times, it is the campus and the hussle and bustle on campus during school hours that allows a possible student to either fall in love or hate the school. This same idea can be applied once one has entered the college. No matter how much on paper one might like the school, much of how one views the school depends on one's own decisions and efforts. By putting oneself out there, meeting new people, trying new things, and making use of the once in a lifetime opportunity offered by resources placed at one's fingertips , then one can truthfully say they have tried to make the most of the college experience. One has all life to hole up in their comfort zone, it is here that everyone has the chance and opportunity to try something new and find the "hole" that you best fit in.

Lyndsey

Students should not be devastated if they do not get into their first choice, because in the end everyone ends up where they are supposed to be. I would suggests looking at college that offer programs and activities you are interested in and not focus so much on college ratings.--not everyone is meant for the ivy leagues. As for parents, they should not force their children into applying to colleges the child does not see themselves at, because although the parent may have the best intentions, it can lead to a very unhappy, costly college experience that is just now worth it in the end. Overall, just follow your gut and realize that the college rejections are not a measure of your character, but a symbol of where you just do not belong.