Florida State University Top Questions

Students- Decide on what you want out of your college experience. Do you want the classic, large school history or small school intimacy? Decide if you need to have a specific school because of their expertise and choose it wisely. Parents- Hold your students accountable, don't hand them everything on a silver platter, and support your students choice. GO NOLES!

Do not choose a school purely based on the major you want to pursue. If you choose a college that has your major, but has no extracurriculars, it could be miserable. Generally speaking, universities are more than willing to work with you so you can get the degree you want, while at the same time being in the atmosphere you want. This is such a huge choice and while it is possible to transfer, it can be a pain. Remember, majors are constantly changing... and your academic advisor will be your best friend.

In order to find the right college for you, I would recommend that each prospective college be visited by you and your parents personally to find how you adapt to the school's surroundings. You should also look into the best school for your major. Certain majors have more of a prestige at different colleges. Just because you and your friends have chosen a college to attend together, doesn't mean that it is the best one for what you plan to do with your future. Don't be afraid to branch out. If the friendship is true, it will last. Make sure to choose the college that fits best with not only your major but what you expect in a college as far as the activities go. You want to do well academically, but going to a school and not having a social life can affect you personally, and therefore affect your grades. Choosing a college that is the perfect fit for you is a very BIG deal. Choose wisely, and socialize! Being on your own is very hard, but if you have people around you when you need them, it makes the experience so much better.

I would tell students and parents to take advantage of the campus tours colleges offer to really check out a college and see if you fit there before you decide on where to go.

Personally, the biggest thing about choosing a college was visiting and learning about all of the different choices. It is necessary to consider how at home one feels when on the campus and the availability of things that are of interest to the individual, anywhere from Greek life to intermural sports to clubs and groups. It is no one else's decision so it must be hugely based on the connection you feel with the campus and school. There is plenty to do and the potential of being involved must be high as to keep you happier overall in the college experience. It really is all that it is cracked up to be and will most certainly be some of the best years of our lives.

I would advise parents and students to first visit as many schools as possible to find the best fit. So much of enjoying your college experience is feeling comfortable being at the school itself and utilizing what it has to offer. In my case, I felt at peace when I visited FSU's campus, which I value tremendously. I would also suggest finding out whatever you can about the programs that a potential college offers in the student's area of interest. The school's reputation for success in the field which the student is interested is so critical in choosing the appropriate university. Once in school, I would advise students to GET INVOLVED! If there is one thing I regret the most about my freshman year, it's being a little too shy and reserved and not finding a group or a cause that I felt connected to. Being involved in activites and interest groups helps students in numerous ways--it provides networking oppprtunities for jobs or academics, builds confidence, and ultimately gives students a healthy distraction from the hardships that come with being in college, like homesickness and stress associated with classes.

Be sure to visit every option and go on a campus tour. Explore all possibilities even if they are out of your price range, you never know what kind of scholarships you may receive. If you know what you want to do talk to an advisor, they can make or break your decision. Talk to students and see what they like most about the school. Notice if people are friendly or not. If you want to get involved in an activity, talk to the coach or head of the organization. Make a pro and con sheet to see what you like about each school. To make the most out of college definitely get involved! If you know people going to the same school that's great, but meet new people and form new friendships. Don't be afraid to try new things, you never know what you will find you are good at. Definitely do an internship, it's the best way to decide if what you are majoring is exactly what you want to do. Live in a dorm, it's a great way to get involved and be in the middle of everything!

There are obvious considerations and qualifications for any parent or student applying for higher education. Factors such as financial feasibility, location, and programs offered are, without a doubt, the primary concern for any potential applicant. But beyond the obvious provisos, there exists a level of gut instinct; does this college feel right? The simple truth about college life is that not every decision will make logical or emotional sense. These decisions, these choices, will inherently be some of the most difficult of your life. It is very likely that the outcomes may not be ideal. My strongest advice when it comes to dealing with the lack of ideal: Do not doubt your own potential. We as human beings have the ability to adapt, both physically and spiritually. Do not be afraid of the choices you are making today. These choices are simply providing you with the opportunity for adaptation and growth. Trust yourself to make the most of what you are dealt.

I would suggest not coming home every weekend. I would also say open yourself for new experiences, try not to be judgemental. I would also say that students should ask their parents for advice because they aren't dumb like we thought they were, our parents are VERY smart.

Look for a school that has as much of your needs as possible. There is more than just the major. Take a tour and look at the students walking by. Look at the surrounding area and the campus itself. Make sure the collage you are considering is a place you can look at every day with just enough quite and social places to fit you individual liking

To the parents: Every day more and more students are realizing in their junior or senior year that their career isn't what they thought it was, therefore, they end up completely unsatisfied and lose motivation to work or they might change to a career they like, but they still lost valuable time. This can be corrected if the student is asked specific questions such as "If you were to go somewhere every morning for the rest of your life, feeling happy or satisfied, where would it be? (refering to an industry or specific workplace)" Depending on what the student answers, an explanation on how that job might be every day must be given, such as the pressures and responsibilities. It is preferable that the student is taken to a counselor who best knows about this. To the students: Do not pick a career just because it seems easy or pays well. The act or satisfaction of WANTING to go to work every day is something a couple of dollars cannot pay. If you are passionate about your career, I guarantee you will be one of the best in the field (which would put a high price on your service).

For all those students getting ready to attend college my advice would be to pick a college that makes you happy. Do not pick a college because a significant other is going there or because it will make your parents happy, pick the one that makes you happy because otherwise it will be a long four years. Also, make sure to get involved with on campus activities, such as clubs and organizations. This will allow you to make friendships that may last a lifetime as well as make for an amazing college experience. My other advice would be to put your school work first and your social life second. By all means, please go out and have fun, but do not let the fun interfere with your grades. Stay on top of your school work, get involved and have fun and your college experience will be a great one!

The best way to find the right college for you is research. Once you have decided on what you want to study, look up the schools that are known for that major. There are numerous internet resources that will lit schools on the cutting edge of their fields. Apply early to the schools you wish to attend and fill out applications for financial aid as soon as possible. Also figuring out the total financial costs of college is a must. Not just tutition costs, but room and board, books, travel expenses, and entertainment costs. Planning well in advance is the best option, don't procrastinate.

My advice for parents would be, let your kids decide where they want to go. They will be a lot happier that way. Students should make as many friends at college as possible because they will probably be your friends for life!

A campus visit is a must. I was undecided about my college choice, but once I went to visit the campus, I fell in love with the school, the programs, and the people. It was the entire package. Don't just look at academics, because you need to be happy and comfortable with your surroundings if you want to do well in whatever your chosen field is. Also, look into the professors in your desired program. See what they've done in research to make progress in their concetration. You want to be mentored by an indidivual who is actively doing work, and research to further understanding in their field. You should also talk to students already there! Ask them what they like, what they don't like, what dorm life is like, etc. Take advantage of the experiences that other students have already had. They're such a great resource, and most are completely willing to share with prospective students.

I would tell parents to allow their child to have the majority say in where they go to school. I would also tell parents to take their time and make sure to visit potential schools. Most importantly, support your child no matter what he or she chooses.

My advice to anyone who is planning to attend an institution of higher learning would be to visit the campus. It is vital that you explore the environment in which you are going to spend the bulk of you academic career. The right environment is a vital factor in achieving your academic potential. Also, be sure to take advantage what your campus has to offer. There are tons of campus events that will allow you to meet your fellow classmates and possible find something that you are passionate about. I got involved in volunteering by visiting one of the many student activity booths that are in our student union. Instead of hanging out in your cramped dorm room after class go out and explore your world! There are so many ways to network and meet people that could possible help you in your academic endeavors. I met most of my study group during freshman orientation week. We bonded while learning our school fight song and eating carnival food. Go out and meet people who you would not ordinarily associate with and expand your horizons. You?ll be all the better for it!

Finding the right college is a very difficult process, and an experience in and of itself. The best way to ensure that your choice is the right one is to consult the individuals who have the greatest knowledge in that area: teachers, advisors, and professionals in the work force. Finding a teacher or an advisor who understands your interests will make all the difference because they are trained to help find schools that best fit your personality and aspirations. Speaking to professionals in your fields of interest will help you as well. A professional can specify several schools that specialize in your field so that you may utilize your education wisely. While in college, be sure to enjoy what the local area has to offer. Whether it is recreation, food, relaxation, or entertainment, balancing a healthy mixture of leisurely activities and school work is the key to keeping your mind fresh and willing to learn. A college that offers activities you are interested in will help you to enjoy your educational experience and take away as much from it as possible. Attending the college that fits you best will help you make the most of your time there.

make sure to visit each school your considering. what is on paper can be completely different than what is actually there. if you cant see yourself at that school, then its probably not the one for you. take a tour, visit the student "services" (like the gym or the dining hall) , sit in on classes if you can. the everyday things is what makes the difference, so make sure you like the 'small' things. once you are there, GET INVOLVED! it is the best way to make friends, and make the most of your experience, not to mention it will help you find a job later on, either by having something to add to your resume, or by having those people to network with. and finally, dont take everything too seriously. have some fun! make sure you doing whats important to YOU

Please do not select a college based on bad information, i.e. "party school". Every student makes their college life what they want to be for all different reasons. Look at the academics and demographics offered. Don't hold out for one school. Make sure your go to the orientations when being offered, walk around campus and get the feel. Actions speak louder them words and brochures. Visit the eateries and dorms. ASK ALOT OF QUESTIONS! Students won't hestitate to tell you what they think! Parents, please don't become helicopter parents. Students don't call up parents for a bandaid. We made it this far. Go out and explore! We are all nervous about our new surroundings, new living quarters (ugh) food, and finding making some friends. Fill out your roommate specs carefully because you are together for a year, if your a grouch say your a grouch who knows your room - mate may be a grouch too! Lastly be yourself and listen. Network before jumping into the fire. Its a new chapter, a new journey in our lives, let's make the best of it.

My biggest piece of advice is to go with your gut. After weighing out all of the possible pro?s and cons, and other factors that will affect your collegiate experience go with your gut. In my personal experience I did not choose FSU first however after visiting the school and talking to advisors I had a change of heart and I wasn?t sure which school to choose based on what I was looking for out of college. I really wanted to go to the other university but my deciding factors pointed to and my gut urged me to choose Florida State. Because of that choice now I can say I am genuinely happy with my Overall college experience. I wouldn?t trade the last four years of my life for the world.

During my college experience I had more freedom than I had ever known. I was away from home for the first time. I lived with two people I had never met before. It was a tremendous gamble but in the end it all paid off. I made so many friends and built so many relationships during my two years at Florida State University. I would not have made my experience any different. I would encourage parents to let their children learn from their own mistakes. Let your children thrive because you may have no idea how strong they can be in the face of adversity. Give them unconditional support and encouragement but do not try to control them while they are away at college. College was a time in my life when I had to learn how to take charge of situations I would not have normally had to deal with when living with my parents. It was a time of growth and discovery. A support system is extremely important when going away to college as well. Parents make sure to check the noise level where the student will be living. The noise level can be extremely distracting and annoying.

do not freakout if you fail your first test in class because you might be in a ajustment period in your life

I believe that the best way to find the college that is best suited for you is to actually go to the campus and take a few tours of it. The tours at all the colleges i visited seemed to really give me a great feel of what the university is like. Another great thing to do is to talk to someone that goes to college. To get an actual student's opinion is a good way to see if the students do actually enjoy attending this school. To make the most of the college experience I would have to say it is best to get out there and meet as many people as you can. I feel like some of the friends i have made in the past three years are going to be there when i get married and possibly forever. Also, i would say to really utilize what the university has to offer in terms of clubs, libraries, on campus activites, or off campus activites. Most of the majors here have a connection outside the college that helps you get experience for your intended future career.

For undergrad, find a place that is comfortable and easy for you... don't take on too much. Go for the trophy school at the graduate level.

Go with your gut feeling. Students: don't follow your parents dreams, make your own!

To the parents of students I have the following advice: While you may be in a demanding career that prevents you from devoting time to your child, I urge you to make the necessary sacrifice in regards to their college education, especially if they demonstrate a willingness to learn, a desire to succeed, and most-importantly an approach to reach their goals. Perhaps researching financial aid opportunities and monitoring future important deadlines would be a start. Overall, simple encouragement and a happy home are essential. Take some time to research different schools and obviously compare options. To the students who have chosen to advance their life, I applaud you. With the continuation of classes quickly approaching, I advise you to stay on top of things and absolutely stay organized. You may be highly intelligent but if your possessions become disorganized, you're going to be at a disadvantage and complete tasks in an unsystematic way. To make the most of your experience, dive in and always be open to meeting new people and treat them with gentleness and respect.

Guide your children, but allow them to make their own choices about finding the right college and making most of the experience. They'll only get to go to college once and they need to start making their own choices in order to grow into mature adults. Remind them of why they are there and encourage them to keep their grades up. Unfortunately most students lose sight of that and graduate with lower-than-expected GPA's and consequently suffer in the job market as a result.

Listen to your children's ideas about school. I was sort of pressured into going to an in-state school due to financial reasons. I wanted to go to a school 600 miles away and this was frowned upon. FSU is a little too big for my liking. If your child does not want to attend a huge school, then don't force them to. Your child will attend a school that he or she likes. If they do, I believe, he or she will do much better in school all around. So my best advice is to listen to what your child has to day.

Think about the important role mathematics and science plays in the convience of your daily life. Don't miss out on an oppurtunity to make knowledge your power. It may not be easy. Engineering school has many challenges along the way, many in which I have not yet encountered. Although, I know that it is up to myself whether I can or can't. My faliures in Engineering school teach me and strengthen my character. I've learned that Intellegence is good, but my self control is far more valuble. When I keep a good study schedule, then I always find time to party with my friends. It is truly a great feeling to celebrate with friends and knowing your academically succeeding. Plus, in the Engineering profession you have excellent job security. I already have an internship in town at a local Civil & Environmental Engineering Firm because you knowlede speaks for itself. Challenge yourself !

Finding the right college is the most important factor in determining what type of college experience a student will have. I would encourage parents to take an active role in helping their child choose a college. It is important for the student to choose their collge, but is a tremendous help if the parents support his or her decision. Parents also have different concerns than the student, which can help in the decision. For students, I would recommend visiting as many colleges as possible. It is important to get an idea of what kind of school he or she would like to attend and get a feel for the campus. The right school should feel like home. It is also important to speak with current students to get first hand testimonies. After choosing the right college, I feel the best way to make the most of the college experience is to have an open mind. Meet and talk to people you may not have thought to previously. Join an organization and get involved. College is a time for experimenting, so try something new. Most importantly, take pride in your school work. Doing well makes everything else much more fun!

It is very important to find a college that suits you individuality. In order to engage in the best experience of your child's four years, it will be extremely valuable for them to find their nitch. It would be in their best interest to attend tours of campus, and find out about clubs and activities around campus that your child has interest in. Going to a university is not only attending classes, but the best way to enjoy campus is to also have outside activities aside from classes, because even though classes are very important, it is also good to be a well rounded individual. Therefore, the best experience I can pass on to a perspective student after my couple of years of experience in college, is to find an enjoyable activity to take part in, make great friends that motivate you to do greatness, and enjoy all that your university has to offer.

I think it is important to visit the college you're thinking about attending during a school day and, if possible, see if you can sit in on a class you plan on taking your first year. I think visiting the school during a school day is a good way to get a feel for the atmosphere of a college, which I think is pretty important. Also, you might be able to talk to one of the professors in the college you want to be apart of to get a feel for what sort of classes you'll be taking. The professors are more likely to give you a more honest view of what the classes will be like than an academic advisor.

Parents: be involved. At least for me, and probably for most kids on their way to college, parents are the most important voice inside their heads. Help your son/daughter choose a school that meets both of your needs and guide them through the process. Up until now we may have been shying away from your 'words of wisdom,' ready to grow up much faster than you were ready for. We need you now more than ever, whether we'd like to admit it or not. Students: be involved. Deja vous! But for you it takes on a bit of a different meaning. It is very easy to get to school and be overwhelmed with all of the new people, new places, and new freedom. I've seen it go one of two ways time and time again: either the student gets scared and holes themselves up for four years just waiting for graduation, or they get in over their heads and mess up their opportunity by playing a little too much. Find a balance that works for you and run with it. These really are the best years of your life!

Make sure you get into a college that offers a great program that you want to major in. Make sure to take care of housing right away.

Find out what your skills are and persue them as best you can.

Go with whatever school you feel most comfortable and at home in. Do not judge the school on it's reputation or anything that you think you know about the school. You are going to get as much out of the school you choose as you put into it.

Tour the campus.

Do your research first and foremost. Parents and students need to visit their prospective colleges and discuss the pros and cons of each. The final selection should be a college that works for the student, not the parent; as the student will be the one attending for at least the next four years. You need to make sure your selection is the college that you both feel that the student will excel, both academically and socially. Get involved with the college; as a student and as a parent. Enjoy the experience with your son or daughter and keep the communication open. Just because we are away at college; we still need our parents. It is a big step on our way to adulthood and I have been very blessed that my parents have been there each step of the way with full support and love. Apply for scholarships. There are plenty of them out there. Yes, it takes time and commitment, but anything worth having does; especially your sons or daughters education.

Stay open to anything

Go with your gut and a campus that feels good when your touring it.

Even if the student is undecided on a career path, try to determine if the path will follow the path of arts or sciences. Many schools are geared more specifically to one or the other, so pick a school that best fits that goal. Furthermore, visit the school to determine whether the campus and surrounding area is aesthetically pleasing to the prospective student. It is important to feel comfortable and at home in a student's surroundings. Furthermore, investigate clubs and activities around campus. If the prospective student knows what his/her major will be, visit that department and meet some of the students and professors to deterimine the course loads, types of classes offered, and specific career paths that can be taken in that department.

My advie would be to pick a college for the right reasons such as environment and majors, not just because it seems appealing. Research the schools you're considering so you can make the decision that is best for you.

My advice I would give to students about finding the right college is to visit it. Another one is to see where people similar to you have gone. If they like it, then you probably will, too. Another thing is, don't let your GPA pressure you into thinking that you can't get in, or that you must attend an Ivy League. It feels better to be the Cream of the Crop at FSU than scum at Harvard. Don't just think of college as school, but as a learning experience for your personality, likes and dislikes, and so much more that. Peer pressure is real! Stay away, and build up your moral character because at the end of the day, if your actions don't align with your morals you will feel guilt. There's plenty of ways to have fun in college without beer. Find like minds! Indulge in Game Nights, Free Food on campus, Free events, free movies, and Informative lectures from inportant people. Say hi and compliment strangers. You'll make friends for life. Key word for college is FREE because debt is not fun after you graduate!

Attend a school where you know no one--it forces you to open up to new experiences and diversifies your outlook on life. I would not have had the engaging experiences I did if I had followed my friends to a different school rather than having an adventure that I can call my own!

Research what college is right for your or your child's needs including size of university and what the student is interested in doing outside of classes.

Find a college that will let you be who you are! If you are an outgoing and busy person, then find a college with lots of campus activities and groups. If you are an intellectual, then find a college that is going to have the best possible teachers and learning facilities for you specified major. If you are a homebody then find a college close to home, or on the other hand, if you need some time away from parents to find yourself, find a college a little farther away (but not too far because you will eventually miss them!) And Parents, this is the time in your child's life when he/she is going to leave the nest and be on their own, and you as parents have to let them do just that! What you may want is not necessarily what they want. Push them to do the right things but also push them to be thier own person, because life's experiences cannot be taught in a book, only through trial and error.

Look for a college that is excellent in academics as well as preparatory to life after graduation. Making the most of your college experience is making use of its resources that will help advance you in the world.

Visit colleges before you apply, and apply to more than one. Live on campus for at least a year, its an experience you don't want to miss, but having an apartment is very fun. Try new things around campus, get involved but don't spread yourself too thin, studies come first. And Remember transfering schools can be lots of paper work but it is possible, don't feel like you have to be stuck in a college if you find out you aren't happy there.

If you can visit, do it. You can tell a lot about how comfortable you're going to be in the college's atmosphere before you go. And don't settle unless it's a matter of not getting into where you wanted most. You need to be satisfied with the entire package.