George Mason University Top Questions

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

Robert

Parents and Students, As you could imagine, finding the right college is never an easy task. However, when making your decision be sure to look for the following attributes from your college choices: 1: Find the graduation succession rate and compare it to other the colleges on your list. 2: Check tuition rates and be sure they are within your budget. 3: Seek out an overall feel of the colleges willingness to help its students. 4: Look for diversity within the college so you can recieve the most out of other cultures and backgrounds. 5: Most importantly, make sure the college of your choice offers the degree your interested in and make sure the institution has a sound curriculum plan in place that is designed to gaurantee your success. I am confident you will find an outstanding college and you will make the most out of your college experience if you look for the latter characteristics in a university. Your time will be well spent and your education well secured for all future endeavors.

Tiffani

I believe that the students and parents should work together to find a school that is right for their family. School can be very expensive, but with the right scholarships students should be able to go where ever they want to go. Its good to live on campus and get that "college experience." Students should keep in contact with their parents and let them know what they are up to as it can be very hard on both students and parents when a child leaves the home for the first time.

sha

You should schedule your time well. Don't ever miss your classes, and take full notes from your classes. Spend your time wisely and study hard. Asking for help from professors or upperstudents if you have problems with your class. Put important dates like exam dates on your calender. You will do well if you follow these advises.

Lisa

Finding the right college for you can be tough. But, it's possible! There is a great school out there for everyone. The best tool to find the college right for you is YOU! Research schools and see how they match up with your preferences of location, academic options, social and athletic opportunities. High school career centers and school websites are great resources to help with college selections. And once you've narrowed down those choices, visit the schools! You'll get a good feel for what you would be experiencing on a daily basis. Once you've selected your school, get involved! Join a club, sports team, social group, participate as a volunteer, or work. Do something to start networking with your college peers to balance out your time spent studying and going to class. And there is no limit to the amount of organizations you can try! Keep trying until you find one (or more) that's right for you. You can find some great friends at college who will be there to help you succeed and make the most out of your experience. Be optimistic - college is a great time, filled with learning, growing, and fun!

Ryan

Dear Prospective College Students, Visit a lot of colleges. I mean a lot of colleges. Do not go somewhere just because all of your friends are going to that school. Don't be afraid to strike out on your own. When you go to visit a college find out as much as you can, and don't be shy to ask questions. Don't just talk to the faculty or the tour guide. Spend some time exploring the campus on your own. Talk to students that you see on campus, and ask them what the school is really like. You will get a feel for how friendly people on campus are. Look around too see what students are doing. Are most of them studying or just hanging out? Are people by themselves or in large groups? If you can, try to spend a night on or near campus to see what the night life is like. Choosing the right college or university is important, but life is what you make of it, and college is no different. If you make an effort to enjoy your college years, no matter where you end up you'll make the most of it.

Elsy

First, I would recommend the applying student to think about his/her own personality before beginning any application. Perhaps make a list of what the student would like to change later. Also, it is very helpful to set out a list of short-term and long-term life goals for onself. This will help narrow down what type of schools the applicant would be most interested in. A college choice is a huge commitment - financially and mentally. My advice for parents is to give the student as much freedom and responsibility as possible with his/her decision. It will help them later in their academic career when they don't always have mom or dad to lean on. Let him/her fill out FAFSA on his/her own until he/she needs your tax information. These little steps of letting go on the parents' part will pay off for the student even if it goes unnoticed at first. Finally, to make the most out of the actual experience, it is recommended that a student should live on-campus - in the midst of the action so that they can watch the institution come alive. Hopefully this has made an impact.

Kathleen

Become involved as soon as possible. Chances are, you and your friends are at different colleges. It's easy to blend in the background, although you can become lonely very quickly. Many colleges offer many different organizations and activities, ranging from sports to specific ethinic organizations to political organizations to volunteer organizations. If you keep yourself busy and involved, you'll make lots of friends and your time at college will definitely be fulfilling.

Asia

It's amazing how much your life can change, when you look and see the direction it's heading. For parents, you see your child find their identity in such a hectic world. As for a student, the identity is what drives you everyday, to search it and define it with every oppurtunity given. Resonsibilty and irresponsibilty, oddley enough, go commonly in one relationship, family. Trust is one of the most influencental emotions that can be shared within this unity . Have faith in the struggles and doubts, understand the pressures and know that together, you will always be there, eternaly. When I recieved my acceptance letter to George Mason, crossing the stage at my high school graduation, and even today, balancing a scholarship essay and a Religion 211 paper at the same time, my parents are there, and they trust in my descions and in my furture. I havnt crossed the finish line just yet, but this is what I have gained from my college experience already, and I can say I have grown so much, to better myself and to keep my family in balance of a life I endebt to them for making all my dreams, come true.

Carolin

To the student: Although it may seem like the most essential choice you will ever make, choosing a college probably only accounts for about 15{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your college experience. Locations and course offerings may vary, but many colleges are the same. There will be all-nighters, there will be distractions, there will be great times, and there will be hard times, but most of all, it will be your time. Your time is where you choose to go forward, step-up, and do what you do best, whatever that may be, and any college will show you that. To the parents: Thank you for caring and being involved, your child will greatly appreciate it for this is a stressful and emotional time. Whether you are choosing to help your child out financially, or you are choosing to let them leap out independently, your advice is very valuable itself. But please remember the difference between advice and living through your child's choice. For it is in the end your child's choice, and there life. Good luck!

Louise

Go wherever the atmosphere is right and where you feel comfortable. I got into "better" schools than Mason, but I just clicked with the University more than any other. Don't listen to what anybody else has to say about the school; if it feels right for you, go there!

Amanda

Visit the school! Seeing it makes a huge difference. Visit as many as possible. As for making the most of the experience, go to class and do your work on time! Then use the rest of your time for socializing. Have fun but remeber that your paying for this education, and it will change your life!

Mariam

You make your own happiness. Decide to enjoy yourself and you will. Even if the college you end up attending isn't your first choice, still try to make the best out of it and keep going. Join an activity! Make friends!

Andrew

Your honestly not going to know what school is right for you until you are actually enrolled there and get the whole experience as a freshmen. I know that this is too late but its how I feel. So I would suggest checking out schools where you have friends that attend so you can get their honest opinion instead of a biased opinion of a tour guide or a professor. Do your research way ahead of time and start looking at schools your junior year of high school and visit them often to get a feel. Also, don't count out community colleges either. They are way cheap and chances are you will be living at home so thats cheaper too, and it gets all your general eds out of the way so you get a taste of the college classes so you can choose the right major at a university and not waste time taking classes that won't help your major. As far as making the most, GET INVOLVED. I didn't join a fraternity until sophmore year and its totally different once your involved in something.

Sharnette

Take the time to really think about what it is you want in a college. Be sure to look beyond the schools name and always visit, because you never really know a school unless you've been there. Finally talk to as many students and faculty members as you can

Maria

When looking for the right college/university there are several factors that parent/student needs to use as guidelines for choosing the correct school. The top two most important issues I believe are: A) Whether or not the college offers a good program for the area that the student wishes to go into, and B) The financial aspect. If the student/parent is going to struggle to finacially afford a more prestigious university, then maybe they should look into a less expensive one, but one that still offers a good education, with the required field of study for the student. The amount of stress and frustration money issues can cause will be considerably less so and make for a more enjoyable college experience. However, making the most of the college experience I believe is solely up to the student. Getting involved in different student activites that interest you is a fantastic way to meet a whole new group of people who share the same interests as you. This might require stepping out of your comfort zone and you might feel as though you are putting yourself out there, but the reward in the end with be worth the beginning struggle.

Annemarie

For students considering schools, there are a few things to pay attention to. First, it is important to feel comfortable in the classroom environment, which includes feeling comfortable interacting with professors. Also, students should consider what resources available for the field they intend to study and they should take advantage of what the school offers in terms of concurrent and post-graduation work. Second, students should visit the school to see if they could see themselves living and interacting with others there. Third, and most importantly, students must remember that college is only what they make of it. There are many opportunities available through the college, but the student needs to personally take initiative create their own ideal college experience. It is also an exciting time for parents. Parents must remember that there is so much pressure felt already by students. Even though parents are anxious, students need support. The more parents and students can work together patiently, the better off both parties will be. Choosing a college is an important process for both parents and students. It can seem daunting and overwhelming when you are in the midst of choosing, but careful consideration pays off in the long run.

Michelle

Starting college was one of the scariest changes in my life. Going from high school to something completely different is never easy, and i would have to tell people that they should approach the transition and realize that college marks a step in your life when you become independent and learn to do things on your own, i feel like you almost loose your innocence in a way. In picking the right college, make sure you visit it, however do not feel upset, or inadequate if you do not get accepted, because any education is a good eduction and it's what you make of it. :)

Jessica

As far as finding the right college, it's all about preference. Make sure you find a college that fits your needs and preferences. If you like your environment and social life quiet, look for rural colleges. If you like city life, make sure you find a college that has a lot of access to nightlife. To make the most out of the college experience, you have to make the right decisions and just have fun. Take advantage of all the opportunities to try something different and new.

Lucy

make sure you visit the campus and ask all of the questions you have, no matter how silly you think they are.

Alaa'a

Parents and students should start narrowing their college choices by visiting the campus, speaking to students who attend the college, and attending meetings with colleges counselors. Analyzing campus life while deciding if the college best suits their lifestyle, also keeping in mind the majors provided. Students usually enter college undecided or vague about their major, students should consider attending a college rich in majors. Once parents and students have agreed on the college, students should take their first semester very seriously , since these should be the easiest years of college. Student should try their hardest to achieve a G.P.A of a 3.5 or higher in their first year of college. Not only does achieving a high G.P.A boost a students self-esteem yet will also increase the students chances for being accepted for vital interships towards their career. College isn't only about grades and academics but college is said to be " The best years of life" . Who can complain about hanging out with friends 24-7? Join clubs, sports, attend lectures, meetings, concerts, go to plays, be invovle with the community. College are the best years of life that should not be taken forgranted.

Jae

Talk to many people on campus or know about the school as possible. Then make sure to go visit the campus to see how it really is and if you just feel the right fit right away the school is probably not the one for you. You can get most out of college if you can effectively manage your time. If you dawdle then you will end up missing out on lots of stuff. However, if you focus and be very productive with your time, you will be able to do everything you want to and still do well in school. Make sure you find you surround yourself around good influence because you do become who your surrounded by so make sure your careful in choosing your true friends. If you choose the right school and manage your time well, then not only are you going to have fun but also do well in school and get the most out of college.

Elizabeth

Find a school that has a great deal of academic diversity. You never know when you might decide to try something new, even if it is only one class' worth. Also find a school that has some little corner that reminds you of home, like a favorite chain restaurant. When things get too tough and you need a break, or feel homesick, or just sick of college, go there and treat yourself to feeling like you are home, even for just for a half-hour. Even if you don't really need to, use the campus resources, like academic advising. They are there to help you, and another set of eyes are always better then one, even if you don't agree. Make a friend in every class, so if you ever miss a day, they can help you with what you missed, and in the end, you will have a large number of friends after 8 semesters of classes! Explore the area around your campus, there are likely some hidden gems that will help you enjoy your free time, save money, or jump start your career.

Shaina

There are so many factors that go into choosing the right college for an individual. First, the parent and student need to consider financial factors and locations that are suitable for the student. Once this is discussed, it is important to think about possible future career moves so the student can narrow down specific majors of interest. In addition, the student should research the clubs, sports, and organizations that different colleges of interest have to offer. These are key factors that will help the student and the parent to make an educated decision on whether or not a school is ideal. Once these options have been researched, it is vital that the parent(s) and the child visit the schools together to get a feel for the environment, the students, and the faculty. Now, the student can apply to the colleges of their choice, and for any scholarships or financial aid they see fit. Going to college is truly a privilage and a wonderful experience, so it is important that the student make the most of it by studying hard, meeting new people, and forming friendships that will last forever. College life is a great transition into the working world.

Marisa

Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. To make it easier, be sure to keep a few simple points in mind. The three most important aspects of a college include: academics, professors, and student life. Academics is definitely the most important aspect when you are looking at colleges. You should make sure that the college is credible, offers your major and check into the average size of the classes. Secondly, the types of professors are imperative to your learning. The professors should be friendly, excellent in their fields, and eager to help students learn to the best of their ability. Next, student life is important because the social aspect of college can build important social skills you will need for your whole life. Be positive that you enjoy being on campus and that you feel a sense of belonging. Also, take a look at the facilities and housing areas. Conclusively, it is extremely important to visit the campuses of the schools you apply to. If you keep these three points in mind, you can assure yourself that you will make the most out of your college experience.

Jasmine

I would tell students and parents to make sure their college of choice has a variety of academic programs and a diverse student body. There are so many opportunities available to those that are willing to seek them out. Another factor are the professors, professors should have real life experience in order to better help guide students through their college career. Also the college must feel safe. I grew up in Northern VA and I know that George Mason is a safe campus and I feel comfortable at all times when I?m on campus. Lastly visit the campus or college more than once to get a better feel for how campus life really is. Try and find a tour guide that can take you around campus without a group so that you can blend in more and see how students and teachers on campus really act. Ask your tour guide or other students how campus life is and what the teachers in your academic field are like. Most importantly see if you are comfortable at the university, because if you?re it will be harder for you to enjoy your college career and what it has to offer.

Jacquelyn

I think that the most important factor in deciding what college to attend would be do go and visit the schools that you are thinking of attending. Actually talk to a variety of students that attend that school , and see what they think of it and get tips of what some good things you should do when you get there. It is one thing to go on a guided tour of a school and read pamphlets, but to get the real experience of the school I think it is necessary to talk to actual students and see what campus life is like. Once you've found the school that you think is right for you, and have been accepted, try to make a good set of friends and join something extracurricular (sport, club, sorority/fraternity, job, etc.), to have something positive besides just learning to keep yourself busy and entertained.

Nina

I would advise studnets and parents to give carful consideration when it comes to choosing a university/college. Students should have some sort of idea of what they want to do in life. Then they can choose a school that is well known and has a good program in that specific field. The cost is always important, so I would advise to look into scholarships well before graduating from high school. Filling out their FAFSFA should also be top priority for those who qualify. As for the college experience, my advise whould be to not rush into anything and take life as it comes.

Jenna

Choosing the right college is difficult. Don't be afraid to make the wrong choice. My first school was one that I loved. I loved everything about it, and it was a place where I made lifelong friends, made some great memories, and loved my classes. But it ultimately wasn't the right school. I had to consider my entire life and future, not just my social life or a life where I can pursue subjects purely for fun, with no real consideration for the future. Try to recognize the things that make you happy AND productive, and look for a school that provides this balance. College is a great time, from which you will take lifetime friends and lifetime memories. But it is also a time to learn about yourself and prepare for your future, because believe me: it sure comes fast. Be romantic about your choice, but be practical, too. And if you later find that your choice seems to lean too much in one of those directions, you can always change your mind. It's college, and it's big, but it's not forever.

Sharita

The search for the right college is one of the most important life decisions. There are so many details to keep in mind including distance, cost, availability of your major, and activities. You should also research all of your possible options and prepare a list of the schools that you want to apply, schedule your high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores to be sent to the appropriate offices in a timely fashion, fill out the FAFSA (it may seem like a difficult process but it is the only way to determine your eligibilty for grants. ), and make sure that you provide an advance notice to people who you would like to write your letters of recommendation. As for making the most of the college experience, that is ultimately up to you. If you want a great college experience you have to create it for yourself. Be actively involved with on campus activities; it is a great way to meet new people. The best way to make the most of your college experience is to make it your own and college is the perfect opportunity to discover yourself.

Amanda

When searching for the right school for you, don't forget that you'll be the one attending it. Take others opinions into consideration, but overall, you want to find a right fit for you. Make a plan of what you're looking for in a school, and search for that criteria. If you participated in activities in high school, you may want to consider contributing to them again in college. Look for schools that offer the same or similar activities so you have the opportunity to become involved on campus. Be selective, there are many colleges that offer many if not all of the criteria you are looking for. Also, don't settle, don't choose a college that has only one out of ten things you are looking for. Being involved in campus activities is a great way to meet new people and become diverse in your experiences. If you plan to stay close to home, I recommend that you consider living on campus. Being away from home will help you gain more knowledge about being independent and more responsible. Most important of all, put effort into your search, you will be there for two to four years!

Jennifer

My best advice for finding the right college would be to physically visit the campus in order to get a feel for how daily life at that school would be. Go during a normal school day, mingle with the student body in the campus hot-spots, visit the dorms and classroom buildings, libraries, etc. Talk to the students, and ask them how they feel at their school. Academics are essential for college success, but so is your social well-being and comfort level. Go to a college only if you feel inspired, energized, and relaxed by being there. While attending your school of choice, always go to class and appreciate the new knowledge that your professors are sharing with you. Listen to what others have to say, and always keep an open mind. Discover all of the student activities that are available to you, and choose to participate in what best suits your personality. Take pride in yourself, and never forget that your future is in your hands. Success is not just about getting good grades, but also about participating and enjoying yourself while on campus in order to grow and mature into a confident, happy, and knowledgeable young adult.

Arifin

Finding the right college is the one of the hardest thing for any individual. It is every student's dream to get into a right college which will have the most important effect in order to be successful in his/her life. There are three ways that a student can find the right college. First, students should start searching for the right college from very beginning of his/her high school year. This way the student can prepare him or herself aheas of the time. Secondly, once the student get a list of possible colleges that he/she may have interest in, the student should look whether or not those colleges offer the major that the student is interested in. Finally, the student can narrow down the list by looking for the colleges that requires standard tuition fees. I think this processes will help any students who are looking for the right college.

Pete

Finding the right college is an incredibly demanding process. Student testimonials probably give the best assessment of a school; however, getting an honest student opinion can be difficult. Go to campuses on a weekday - although it's easier to go on weekends, you miss out on some of the atmosphere by going while classes are not in session. Explore campuses with a guided tour, but also take some time without a guide. Ask for help if you're lost - see how the average student responds. Read reviews of the college online and view some national rankings and statistics. Most importantly, though, figure out what you want in terms of size, demographics, location, etc. and pursue colleges that fit these preferences. Once you have chosen a college, get involved as early as possible with the campus community. Join student organizations as an underclassmen so that you can lead them as an upperclassmen - being one of the leaders at your university will provide you with a much more satisfying college experience. Learn via classes, but also take time and learn via internships, study abroad and other programs. This will provide the most holistic and fulfilling education your college can offer.

Minh

Finding the right college is not an easy task but the outcome is worth the effort. Try to find a school that you will be content with because you want to make the most of your four years. Research helps out a lot but seeing for yourself is worth more. Some things you can research online but the best way to find out what it would like to be to attend a school is to find our first hand. Ask some students about their opinions. Sit in a class and make observations. Only then can you make an appropriate decision. As for your college experience....EXPERIENCE! The only way you can see how things work out is to try things out. Do not be afraid to go out there and do something. Try new things and do not forget to just be yourself.

Carlin

Every student has individual needs and ways in which they learn. Students and parents must realistically asses the needs and strengths of the student. The specific needs of the student can then be matched to the strengths and weaknesses of universities. It is important to be honest with yourself when applying and determining in the environments in which you can succeed. Doing this will hopefully help you go to a university where you fit in and save you a lot of stress as you adjust to the college environment.

Rodney

To relax and have fun. Sure academics are important but you have to remember that college is the best 4 years of your life. You'l never have an experienc like this again. The best way to succeed academically is socially. The relationships you build with people in college can last you a lifetime or be a huge favor for you later down the road. Usually the kids that succeed were able to balance an active social life and their classes. Is it easy? Sometimes no. But is it rewarding? Oh definitely! A college professor once told me, "Have fun now while you still can because after this, you'll always be working." I also heard another professor said, "College is a four-year vacation from reality, but it will the best and only one you'll have. Don't let it go by." If your college professor is telling you this, coming from a former student him or herself, then I would take their advice.

Nicole

When finding the right college for you, meet with your high school guidance counselor and decide what your major will be, or at least decide what your interests are. They will help find the colleges that cover your interests academically. To be pick the number one college for you, however, you are going to have to dig a little deeper. There are websites where students give testimonials, rate their school, and offer statistics comparing the schools. These websites offer you the personal information that college brochures and college websites do not. You will be able to discover just how involved the students are, what they really do on the weekends, what stigmas are associated with the college, etc. Once you are in your college, you are going to experience something similar to culture shock. Getting involved in as many things possible freshman year, truly helps you adjust and love college. Go to the events your school hosts, the games, club meetings, etc. They are a great way to meet new people, put your name out there, and help you discover the person you are becoming. By sophomore year, you be able to narrow the activities to what suits you.

Luke

Students, go to college on your own terms. Listen to the advise carefully, be grateful for it, but in the end make your own decision. Stand by what you believe in and don't water down who you are because it's what you think the admissions office wants to hear. Whatever you do, don't fear the new and unusual, as it is often the new and unusual that makes all the difference in our world.

Monica

I would tell students that they should visit a few different schools before deciding on one, andto visit while classes are in session if they can. It's hard to make the most out of your college experience at a school that just isn't right for you, and visiting a variety of colleges will help students make the right choice. I'd also encourage students to ask lots of questions, while picking a school and after starting classes. It's much better to look stupid once than be stupid for a long time.

Tarek

Some simple advice to both parents and students with college futures: do not overthink your decision! Throughout my years of high school I would hear one of the most common subjects of converstation within the school halls: which college will you attend? I understood why high school students would be so worried and preoccupied with the selection of a university to attend after high school graduation. It is definitely a big decision and one that will impact that students immediate and foreseeable future, but one big mistake that students can make is making such a big deal about where to go. One thing that I have noticed after my first year of college is that the coursework I am learning would presumably be similar, if not the same, had I went to some other college. The important thing to take away from college are skills and experience in an environment where the student relies mostly on themself. A dedicated student will do well no matter where you place them, so the moral of the story is to focus on doing well, not where you will be doing it. Follow this advice and you will do well in college and life.

Christine

My advice to parents and students about finding the right college is take your time when searching. You should visit every campus you think you would like to attend. I suggest spending a weekend at the campus if possible to make sure it is really what you want. Make sure that the school is in the right environment for you, that there are activities to do and places you can visit on the weekend. Also, your first year you should stay in a dorm to get the whole college experience. Living in a dorm is a great way to make friends. Although it can be ackward it forces relationships to happen.

Matthew

Visit the campus first. Find out what you really want in a university and research whether or not the university your choosing has what you want.

Kathleen

College will become a student's second home. All your classes will be on campus. Most events are on campus. Many organizations meet on campus, normally during the school week (Monday through Friday). Depending on the college you go to, many of your friends may live on campus. My point is is that in the four years you go to college, you will be spending a lot of time at the college. Make sure you really like the campus. Take tours of college campuses. See lots of different campuses. There may be a class or an organization that you really like at one college that isn't offerred at another one; tours help you find that out. If something bothers you right now about a college, check out another college. You will be spending four years there; you don't want to make those four years the worst years by picking the wrong college.

Amira

Don't worry so much about the statistics. The way to truely know if the school is a perfect fist is to go on a campus tour. And from there, the school should sell itself.

Genevieve

finding the right college can be extremely stressful. It's a very personal decision that students and parents have to make each year. Like any major decision in life it should be done early, (ideally in the junior year if not earlier), and it's critically important that this be approached with a well defined decision making process with well thought out criteria that reduces stress and ultimately gives the best decision. I submit for due consideration the following advice as a "Plan of Action". Determine what area of study the student desires to major in . Create a list of criteria to be used in evaluating colleges as being ideal for selection to attend. Make a list of potential colleges offering the student's desired major, and apply the above criteria to narrow down to a managable list those colleges that will offer admittance to the student based on GPA and SAT scores. Gather and review all resources and information about each school you're considering. Where possible visit the colleges on your list. Make a final list of choices among those schools that may accepted you. Review their possible scholarships. Finally, apply to those schools that made your cut .

MARJORIE

Finding the right college is like finding the perfect car that you have always wanted. You have to take time and not only look around the actual campus but talk to the ?sales people? or representatives. Finding out what ?extras? the college offers such as student computer labs, recreational opportunities, student organizations, or even extracurricular activities can be very helpful when the running is close between two or more colleges. Most important when searching for the right college is to find out what current students have to say. Make sure to speak to a couple of students and find out how the feel about the professors, the class content and the college as a whole. Once in college, make the most of it! Make sure to take advantage of all the campus activities offered throughout the year, these are great for networking and simply meeting your peers. These social events are also the perfect time to unwind, relax, and reenergize. Enjoy every second of the college experience from the usual sleepless nights to the relief that sweeps over when your last final exam is complete.

Jessica

College: it's a big step in life. Sure, high school was a breeze and you've already taken your SAT's so the only thing left is to choose your college. :confused look: Many students have no idea how to go about choosing a college or university. The first thing you need to do is decide what you want your college experience to be like: big school with lots of people or a smaller school with a more tight-knit community? It also helps to know what field of study you are going into so you can compare the programs at different schools. You should make a list of the top three schools you want to attend and VISIT THEM! This is where most students mess up, they see pictures and think: "Wow!" and then they get to the school and are let down. Once you make your decision and begin your college experience you should make the most of it! Study hard and get good grades, go out and make new friends! Everything about college is an experience, from the packing and moving in to the last day of your first semester. Make it count!

Lyndsay

College is a very formative period in one?s life. Many things should be taken into consideration when making your choice. Among the more common things to consider are the cost and location of the university, however, even those things need to be looked at on a deeper lever. Look at the cost of living in that area, not just tuition. Does the surrounding area offer a variety of resources? Other things to consider include the distance from home, dining options, and size and composition of the student body. It?s very common for someone to change their major, so a variety of programs of study is very important. To make the most of the experience I would highly recommend living on campus for at least the first year. Also, join a group related to something you enjoyto meet more people. Look at what extracurricular options are available when deciding what school is right for you, too. All of these things are important, but the best piece of advice I can give is to know yourself. A school may look great on paper, but if you know it doesn?t suit you it will be a long four years.

RYNATA

MAKE SURE YOUR CHILDREN HAVE A SAY IN WHERE THEY GO AND LET THEM GET A FEEL FOR THE CAMPUS BEFORE THEY JUMP INTO TE SWING OF THINGS

Chiau-yun

Be sure to know which field you want to go into which will help you decide which college is best for you. Don't worry so much about your social life in college becuase you'll have the rest of your life to have a social life. There are plenty of parties to attend at any college you choose so do not choose your school base on the kind of parties they throw. The important thing is you get the best education you can in which you build your life on. This will lead to what ever kind of social life you want in the future. Remember, college is only a four years sacrifice but in return you can live in luxury for the rest of your life.