Lesley University Top Questions

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

Elisa

If I could restart this year, I would make the same choices. But I would accomplish more than I did. After graduating I took a gapyear. A very unorthodox decision but I knew that it was right. I would pressure myself to workharder. I could have applied for more schools. I was very self confident in terms of what schools I wanted that I forgot to consider the possibility of not being able to afford them. I should have underestimated myself at times. In case my initial plan didin't work. Also, I would advice myself to be excited about college. It may seem like an underrated choice because of the amount of diverse forms of education nowadays. With new forms of technology college seems outdated. I find it to be a necessity. Not only because it is the purest form of education out there, but also because of the experiences you get to have. I've only heard about them but I know enough. It's a world of possibilities that help you figure out who you're meant to be. So a piece of advice to myself, don't be afraid to take risks, you might be suprised.

Molly

If given the opportunity to speak with myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to partake in any and all scholarship opportunities rather than rely on the one that I was granted (which greatly limited my college-seeking scope). I would also tell myself to not limit my opportunities based soley on my locational comfort zone, to venture out more often and gain a broader knowledge of my surrounding world. I would also tell myself to begin looking into acquiring a job in an alternative healing center that focuses on expressive art therapies early rather than wait for my required internship.

Rahumai Rafaela

I would tell myself to strive for better grades and plan ahead. Right now, I know what good grades reflect, and I have learned to work hard and be focused, which has reflected in my college years' grades. I would also tell myself to inquire even more about the college I'm going to apply or attend to. Even though I did inquire before entering my current school, there are always things they don't mention because you just "did not ask" about them specifically. Asking more is always better, I would make myself be more informed. I would also help myself focus a little bit earlier and narrow down my field of study in order to save time and start to enjoy it earlier. Finally, I would tell myself to enjoy the college years ahead with passion, focus, and love for my career, because that is what will give me the drive and means to thrive in the competitive field of Photography.

Kelly

I would assure myself that choosing to enroll into Lesley University is the right decision. I would tell myself to put aside the doubt and uncertainty I felt traveling far away from my family. Attending Lesley University will help me ahcieve my future goals. Therefore, I should be confident in attending this university. I would also assure myself that I will successfully become independant and mature to become a human being that will be able to survive without the reliance of parents. While I will have a shakey start and tough transistion, I will become accustomed to this new lifestyle and be better off in the future.

Hadassah

Do what you love that helps others. Focus on your art, creative projects, and everything that inspires you (pay much less time to romantic relationships and what other people think). When you pursue what you are deeply curious about, everything that energizes you, you are naturally driven. Consider input from advisers, but follow your heart and Soul drives and passions. When you research, write and create, learn and grow, for the pure joy of it, it inspires your work. The sooner you get your degree, the better (it will be a ticket to professional writing opportunities). Accept yourself more, and judge yourself less. Be less concerned with making straight As, being a perfectionist; it is knowledge, learning and enjoying of the process, that is critical. Don't worry, the challenge of being the first person in the family to achieve a college degree, will be followed by the blessing of inspiring others to do the same. Two sisters will go on to get their undergraduate degrees, after you, and a generation of nieces and nephews will do the same. Be unafraid of traveling: the world and your own mind. Learn as if your creative life depends upon it. It does.

Tanya

Knowing what I know about college life now, I would give two very important tips to ensure a successful college transition. The first important piece of advice I would give is to learn time management skills and put them into practice. For example, having a set time for studying each night will help make sure your work is always done on time and that you are fully prepared for upcoming tests. Once you're behind in college, it's almost impossible to catch up. Putting time management to use will allow you the ability to be a successful student, help maintain personal responsibilities, and still have time for fun activities with friends. The second important piece of advice I would give myself is to start the college/scholarship search as early as possible. Some scholarships allow entry as early as your freshman year in high school. It's never too early to get extra funding for tuition and book fees. Your college selection is also important. Start thinking about where you would like to live, class room size, yearly cost, degrees offered, etc. These two tips would make a huge impact on preparing for and maintaining a successful college life.

Emily

Take advantages of your resources. College is a myriad of opportunities, ranging from expensive software and technology, to renowned professional with timeless advice and wisdom. These connections will prove you well in your future career. Reach out to faculty, advisors, and older students. Their knowledge is invaluable. So much of colleges is experimenting and finding your own way, but it can be overwhelming at times. It’s okay to ask for help. People are there to help you succeed. College is a time of creation. Explore who you are and create a safe community to allow yourself to grow. Get involved with different clubs, organizations, volunteer, try new experiences, but don’t forget the importance of setting aside time for you. Love yourself, own your views and beliefs, and follow your passions. You know yourself better then anyone else. You have nothing to prove. It’s okay to admit you’re amazing because you are. Always remember that no matter what happens, you will get through this, and you will be stronger and wiser for it. College is an opportunity many people don’t have ability to seize. College is a privilege, make the most of it.

Amanda

If I could go back in time i think i would pick a different college to attend. Lesley is a great university but it is not the university for me. Also transitioning into college life is very difficult. I would tell myself that sleep is very important that I shouldn't stay up intill 3am every night. Also i would tell myself to really monitor my eating habits on a much stricter level. Drinking is also a huge aspect of college and I've learned that being able to know your limits and understand that no one needs to pressure you into doing anything. Thats what I would tell my high school self.

Amanda

If I could meet my 17 year old self, I would tell her that she isn't as bad as she's been made out to be. That despite learning disabilities, she can still do anything set sets her mind to. I'd help her unlock that hidden determination and fight that she has left. I'd tell her not to let people's cruel opinions affect her. I'd assure her that every negative feeling she had to endure will only give her courage as an adult. I know that she would be very happy to know that she will be the first one in her family with a college degree. She wouldn't believe that she got anywhere in life! Most of all, I'd tell her that she ISN'T worthless. If she could survive adoption, borderline personality disorder, and abusive people, then she can survive college with no problem.

Melissa

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that I should not be worrying over everything. I am just a teenager; God is in control. When I was in highschool, I worried a lot about where I was going to go to college, what my major would be, how I was going to pay for college among other things like self-image etc. I wish I could tell my former self that God would work everything out for His glory. Not that I still don't worry about paying for college, but I know that God has a plan for me and I don't worry too much about who I will be. I would also tell myself to be my own person. I tried too much to be like my sister. I wanted to be just like her. I had to get good grades and do everything that she did. Now I know that I am my own person and can exhibit that person!

Mallorey

If I could go back in time and give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would have nothing but postive things to give. I would tell myself that the adjustment process from high school to college life was relatively easy and that I would do a great job. I would meet a few people that would become my friends for the next two years (and hopefully, for a few more after that), but I would still stay close with all of my friends from highschool. The one peice of advice I could offer myself would be to appreciate the time spent with my family the summer before freshman year of college, because I will miss them an incredible amount while away. However, there is always a bus to take that will bring me home! All in all, I would tell myself to keep on keeping on, because I am doing a swell job so far.

Ashley

Hey, I'm you from the future. You will get over that later but right now I have to tell you that college is far less challenging and much less horrifying than our teachers painted it out to be. Being that Lesley's Art Institute of Boston is an art school, you cannot escape the stereotypical artists with half-dyed locks with a cigarette infinitely attached to their lips. The peers are not exactly up to par but the teachers are crème de la crème. They have all had professions in the art field before becoming professors so their advice are genuine life tips for an artist in the real world. The cherry on top, they sincerely care about their student's mental health and their growth as a intellectual and an artist. The lessons are extremely enriching and encouraging to make me strive for more knowledge.

Leah

If I could go back in time and give my high school senior self advice about the transition I would tell myself to always be welcoming and open to new challenges, faces, and ways of life. Stand up for yourself and appreciate where you came from and what you believe in. College in the city will expose you to many new people and lifestyles and just remember to always be accepting and helpful. Do not judge a book by its cover, and be accepting of everyones character. You don't have to try to be best friends with everyone, but don't close yourself out from meeting new people and making new friends because you never know who might open you heart and soul. The transition is easier than you think. Continue to study hard, but always remember to enjoy what you are doing, and work to better what you think is not. Its good to put others first as you often do, but don't forget to care for yourself and enjoy the warmth of the good new company that loves and surrounds you.

Manli

I wouldn't even know where to start. As a senior I worked very hard in school and still had participated in sports all year round. When I wasn't doing that, I was doing community service. Although, I ended up doing well in school, if I could go back, I would tell myself to try even a little harder and have a little more fun. The biggest thing I would advise myself against is putting everything off to the last minute. If I hadn't procrastinated so much on essays and studying in general, I would have had a lot more free time. The only regret I have for the begining of my senior year was not studying as much as I should have for the SATs and not liking my scores very much. Even though that doesn't matter now, considering I got into the college that I wanted to and would not choose a different college even if I could, I would have liked to have had better scores.

Tiffany

I would tell myself to utiliize the campus resources like the center for academic achievement but other than that I had a successful first semester and I was very prepared so their isn't much that I would change.

Riva

This is the right choice- even though high school sucks, college will be better than you ever imagined. The friends you will make, the things you were learn, the oppertunities you will have and the things you will experience will more than make up for what you're going through now- so keep strong and carry on. Do what you want, and the more you are yourself, the more not only will you respect yourself, but people around you will too, especially once you reach college. Step out of your shell- there's a whole world waiting for you.

Martyna

My college experience is just beginning. However already I have been introduced to many career choices and I feel totally in control of what I want to do with my education. The support that Lesley University and it's staff has to offer is too good to be true. My experience at college has been very positive so far, and I can't wait to see what else comes from it. It has been valuable in many ways. Not only do I now see all the doors I have open for my future, but I can see just how simple it can be to get there.

Lily

While I have been away at school, I have learned more about myself and the type of person I am. I hold tight to my values and do not let other people pressure me. I have also challenged myself with the amount of classes so that I can learn more and earn more credits at the same time. I have also been able to become treasurer of our gay club known as L.E.A.P (Love & Equality of All People). I also have been able to participate in the Community Service Club and help at the Blood Donation as well as handing out food at food pantries in Cambridge, MA. I have also learned how to work out issues with my roommate and become a better communicator because of those issues. I have also been opened up to the real world and to see what life is really like without my parents. While being at college I have realized that when a child sees that they realize how important it is for them to recieve a good education so that they become someone important someday.

Charles

Life changing experiences, cultural differences, great learning skills are the things that I got out of Lesley University. Life changing experiences is because I have been exposed to a different part of the continent than just the mid-west. Cultural differences, I am seeing how other people celebrate holidays and handle life problems diffently. Last, great skill learning by acquiring life fundamental skills I have received from the classroom. I am able to apply them into the real world once I graduate.

Starla

College has been a wonderful experience. It is so fufilling to be learning things that will help others. Not only has it been a step towards my desired degree of a Registered Nurse but has also showed my three children how important education is. I have always told my children that college is a must to succeed in the world. Naturally, their first question was, "Did you go to college?" When I had to tell them that I had not , I felt like I had failed them. Now that I am attending classes, it feels wonderful to be setting a good example for my children.

Lyndsay

Through this college experience, I have become more open to new ideas and views separate from my own. Lesley University has really encouraged me to explore my career options, with everything from taking a class in art therapy, to statistics where we had to create our own study. The professors are so helpful here and that in turn has made me so dedicated to school and focused on my aspirations for the future. I know without a doubt that I would like to be a therapist, as well as a professor at a college level. I have a professor who currently does that and every time she talks about being a therapist, I get this overwhelming swell of hope and excitement for what lays ahead. Everyday I get more and more excited at the life I am starting to live and how Lesley University is helping me to accomplish that. I have seen a lot of students that throw away their education or do not appreciate it but that is not me. I love the sense of accomplishment that I have when I'm in school learning, and I never want it to be taken away. Thank you!

Hasson

In the earlier stages of my college experience (undergraduate), I mastered enough learning, to serve as a foundation and springboard for higher levels of academic pursuit, such as the earning of my master degree ( Springfield College,MA), and my current under takings, to complete studies for the PhD degree program at Capella University. During my academic life,I have gain a valuable learning experience in the ways of civilized society, and solid direction for living my life, as civic mineded American citizen and resident of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Aimee

Other than the valuable education I have obtained through hard work and discipline, I have learned to be more responsible, have seen the world differently, and learned how my everyday decisions affect the things and people around me. My education is something no one can ever take away and is an invaluable part of my life and future career and actually being able to attend college, has shown me just how important it is. Not everyone is fortunate enough to be able to further their education, and I am very grateful that I am. It is something I should never take for granted, along with my life, and this past year in college I have learned this well. Along with a new outlook on life and importance of hard work, I learned to be more responsible and how to respect each of my classmates as well as the professors and teachers. Another important thing I learned is how to be able to set reasonable goals and work hard to reach them. Working with others is something I had many chances to do in college and the teacher-student relationships became more important as they helped me work towards my goals.

Vanisa

Over the past year I feel as if I have been on a personal journey of self enlightenment. Becoming emersed in the college community you being to reevaluate your comprehension on life. I learned quickly that professors are not there to treat you like a child. I learned that in the begining you are a sponge absorbing everything around. You make friends, you lose friends, you make mistakes but you learn from them. While this process goes on you learn, you learn things about yourself, your friends, your school, other people, and occassionally about the world. Attending college is important to me because I am the only one on my father's side of my family to attend college. I feel proud to break this negative cycle that continued on his side of the family. I learned that the longest journey starts with the first step, and since I have been attending college, my cousins behind me have been looking up to me and asking me for help so that they can apply to college as well. I feel proud to be a college student and make difference not only in my life but in my families life as well.

Sukhjinder

I have gotten out of my college experience at College Of DuPage is independence, knowledge, and leadership. Independence has taught me that being on my own means taking responsibility for my decision making and how important each decision really is. Knowledge has taught me that one thing that no one can take away from you is your intelligence and knowledge only benefits one. Leadership is one of the most valuable traits I have since I can also use this in my career to succeed. College of DuPage has been valuable to attend because I was involved in a lot of the honor societies and clubs where I met amazing faculty members and also other students who are some of my really good friends. Also, it gave me time to decide where I wanted to transfer to and what I really wanted to major in. Now, I will begin my education at Benedictine University where I hope I have the same college experience.

Brianna

Through my college experience I have gained a lot of things, most of which I will take with me through my whole life and throughout my career. I believe that the most valuable lesson that I have learned is integrity. From attending college, I have learned persistence, values and most of all responsibility. It has opened up doors to a new tomorrow and in the long run has made me consistent in achieving my goals and aspirations. I believe that through attending school I have gained a better sense of my self that has made me a more confident person in what life will bring tomorrow and in my future. College has been valuable for two reasons. The first reasons stands with responsibility. I am able now to understand concepts and principles that i never could quite interpret. Lastly, I gained respect. Respect came from the sheer fact that i am able to live up to my dreams and shoot for the stars, stopping at nothing less than satisfactory.

Hayley

Learning skills for the work place. Learning to meet deadlines

Emilienne

What i have gotten out of my college is the experince.I have learned to mange my time wisely. From have classes in to morning to working in the afternoon and having night classes as well. On top of that getting my homework done on time. I have also learned to be myself more around people and not worry what others think of me. I have also become more social and have an understanding of the world and society, because i have learned that life is not how it is cut out to be and that reality has funny ways of coming at you.

Jade

Hey self, I know right now you're getting pretty tired of questions like "Where are you going to college?" "What are you going to major in?" "What do you want to be?" Well, here's the scoop: It's ok if you don't know the answers to all of those questions just yet! What's important is that you choose a college that caters to your general interests, and just go for it. Seriously, dive right in. You have a couple years to narrow down your specific course of study; in the meantime, stretch yourself! Try new things, get involved with your community, make friends, use your time wisely, and enjoy this phase of your life. All through High School, routes were pretty much mapped out for you to take; but that map is gone after you graduate, and instead there's a world of opportunities and open doors calling your name. So, (cliche alert) follow your heart. Do what feels right. Study what interests you. Find out what you're good at and then improve. You'll be surprised at what you can achieve. Study hard, have fun, and make your own path. Good luck!

Stephanie

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to enjoy life as much as possible. It wasn't until I moved out and started college that I realized I wasy trying to grow up too fast.

Renee

If I could go back in time and give myself advice as a high school senior, the first thing I would tell myself is to stop goofing around and apply for as many scholarships as possible! It's hard to excel in college with a constant weight on your shoulders of not knowing how you?re going to afford it. I would tell myself to make sure and join clubs and extracurricular activities. College life is very hard to get through alone. Friends are a big part of college. I would tell myself not to be shy and jump in but also not to be out with friends all the time. You are paying for college unlike high school where you take it for granted. You are paying for these classes and you really need to focus and take time on your work. One of the most important things that I would stress to myself is to not procrastinate! Get your work done as soon as possible. If you wait till the last minute, not only will it not be the best work because you were rushed but also you don't need that extra stress laying on you.

Dani

I am torn because in many ways I wish would have told my high school self how important a college education would be. I wish I could known how many jobs I would have to work that offered little or no advancment opportunites, poor compensation and did not fill my soul. However, I suspect my high school self would not have listened because at that age I was full of hopes, dreams, and I felt I knew so much about life. My high school self would have simply gone through the motions of school never really owning the the knowledge. Yes I would have had a degree but would it have really meant the same thing it means to me now. As a returning adult student I bring my life expereinces. I am a focused and driven student. I know where I have been and know the path I want to be on. I feel that this long journey to becoming a teacher will serve to make me a better teacher than I would have been had I gone to college straight out of high school.

Tyler

The unique experience of talking to oneself in the past is not something I'd waste. High School Senior Self and I would go out to eat somewhere nice and talk for a very long time. I'd be happy to answer his questions (assuming the new knowledge wouldn't dramatically change our future). In the event that he was just too speechless about my apperance, I?d still have a few things to impart. I would tell my High School Senior Self to start applying for scholarships soon because there won't be as many available during his year off. I'd tell him to stay on top of paperwork even though it's scary and not to worry about the acclamation process (luckily, he won't be the most nervous person there). I'd tell him to pack long before he has to leave. I?d tell him to be friendly once he was there, because everyone else is just looking for a friendly person. I?d tell him not to count on a full night?s sleep and tell him to be as involved as he can be in every class he?s in. And: "Have fun.?

Roni

For me, this question is especially significant because if I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have a lot of helpful advice for myself. Senior year of high school is famous for being one of the most important years of one's educational life. It is filled with important decisions to be made, and many of us are taught that if we make the "wrong" desicion, the consequences are immense and cannot be altered. Although I was fortunate enough to have plenty of aids in the college process throughout my senior year of high school, great amounts of my final decision were based on some factors that now I know are fairly insiginificant. Looking back, I based my decision on more surfaced things such as closeness to home, size of dorm rooms, how close I would be to high school friends, etc. As a college transfer student who was not happy with my initial decision, I now know that the most important factor in college is my education, and my success rate within a college, and that even if mistakes are made in deciding, regretting gets one nowhere in life.

Sarah

If I could go back in time to tell my high school self a thing or two, I would start by exclaiming, "Lesley University has a time machine!" Then, in all seriousness, I would tell myself that college is not all fun and games--but not to worry, there is plenty of that, too. It's a tricky balancing act between getting the work done and still being able to drink from the fountain of campus activities. There is always something going on, so you'll never, ever be bored. Getting to bed and waking up on time is a challenge--you will probably sleep through several classes before you get the hang of it. But as long as you try your best to keep up you'll come out with your grades intact. Remember, it's more about the experience then the grades. You didn't take out an exorbitant college loan just to bury your head in books all day--you want to meet new people, love your professors, march to your own drummer, pursue your life's dream. College is the first step towards capturing that dream. This is where the good life begins.

eila

Hey girl, this is future you, and well what i have to tell you is get your portfolio done sooner, and submit faster, also look more into housing at the schools.

Nancy

People will tell you how important a college education is to you. It is very easy to say that a piece of paper stating you earned a degree does not prove much about what you know. People who are dishonest can often get the same piece of paper or degree. The proof of a person's knowledge should come from the person and not the degree. In theory this is all very true. Reality is a different story. As you grow older you will accumulate life experience and knowledge. This will help you in everyday life and as people get to know the person you have become. First, they need to give you the initial opportunity to prove yourself. Without that degree, you will often not be given the chance to show who you are and what you know. There will not be the initial respect, that you know you deserve. From the time I started my bachelor's degree until its completion will be 38 years. I am now gaining the respect from others and myself that I know I deserve. It may not be the answer, but it is a key inside the door.

Blair

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior I would tell myself to always follow my dreams and not worry about what job makes you the most money. Doing what you love is the most rewarding thing of all, you could make millions in another career being misrable; millions do not ensure happiness. I would al so tell myself to let go of all stress and negativity and focus only on the positive things in life. I would re-assure my self that spending time on projects is the most beneficial thing I could do for myself no matter how stressed out I may be. I would conclude by telling myself to keep my head up and stay foucused on my goal and never give up.

cheryl

Apply for more scholarships and start saving money to help pay for college. Also, start to build my credit up in high school, so I can take out loans.

Raina

I would tell myself to not worry about all the little things, they don't matter, just be happy and have fun.

Stephanie

Find a college that shares similar ideals as your own with an environment that suits your needs. Don't settle with outdated buildings or limited activities because a school may have a good reputation. Each student has their own idea of a perfect class and shouldn't settle for anything else. And if your ideals don't fit with a partiicular school, don't dismiss it, because it will become a much bigger problem when your student is attending five classes with these ideals being implimented. If your student is liberal or religious try to find a school that reflects those characteristics where your student can feel free to discuss their opinions. There is a perfect match to every students wants/needs in their education so don't settle on a school that is 95{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} there. Your student will be spending a lot of money and time at this school, so make sure it's a place they can call home.

Justine

Pick a school that feels right to the child and that the child can grow in.

Kristen

Really do your research. Go to all of the open houses and go prepared with questions that you want to be answered (and don't be afraid to ask questions!). Also, I recommend you look at all different colleges in all different areas. Really get to know how many different environments colleges are located in to find the best for you.

Ashley

Make sure you visit and spend an adequate amount of time at each school you are thinking of applying to, so that you can truly get a feel for the school. Also ask tons of questions, really find out how the school functions. And don't just ask administrators or faculty, ask students, because their answer will always be the closest to the truth because faculty does not see what goes on in the daily lives of sutdents. Make sure that your decision is that one that makes you the happiest!

Tara

I would suggest to recent HS graduates to take a year off and travel or delay their college career for a semester. I am more experienced now than I was at 18 and I wish I had the knowledge to make a decision as important as college with the maturity I have now.

Olivia

I started college in community college and decided to transfer to a four-year school. The experience helped me to figure out what I wanted to study and where I could pursue the type of education I wanted. I would recommend thinking carefully about what you want to major in and what type of learning environment you are most comfortable in when deciding where to transfer. For me, my stepfather was very helpful during the application proccess. I would definitely suggest working closely with your family or other adults to chose the right schools. To make the most of the college experience you have to put in the effort to develop yourself through education and make relationships with the people that can help you succeed. There are so many available resources at today's universities, even the small ones, but you have to make use of them in order for them to benefit you. Becoming more involved in my field and actually going out into the field and conducting research has been one of the most valuable experiences I have had over the course of my education so far.

Molly

Finding the right college for youself or your child is one of the most valuable investments you can make. Many new students find the partying aspect of many colleges more appealing than the quality of education. It is important to take your time to find the right school for you. A school that will fit your specific needs and offer several mediums of learning will help you understand the importance of a good education.

Donna

Make sure that the college chosen is the student's choice! I attended community college for my first two years because my family thought it was wise, but I was sad at times that I wasn't living it up on a college campus. However, I do not regret my decision because it saved me thousands of dollars in the end. I would suggest though, to choose what is right for the student, because it is them going to college there, not their parents!

Owen

The transition into college is often difficult. Schools not only offer more programming than most high schools, but they allow for more personal choice and input than students may be used to. Finding an academic niche early on in one?s college career is one of the most important things a student can do to ensure a strong academic future. Accessible teachers allow students, not only to strengthen the quality of work and studies, but to flesh out ideas about life after college, whether it is career or school related. Regardless of size, schools can provide personal relationships between students and faculty through small class size or extensive extracurricular and organizations. The academic choices that can be daunting or overwhelming to an incoming freshman are manageable when guidance from a faculty member who, not only knows the ropes at the university, but knows the student?s academic capabilities and personal interests is readily available. Countless times throughout my college experience I have seen fellow students turn to faculty, only to be pushed aside. These students, who may be struggling in a specific class or program, whose needs are not validated by the institution, lose both confidence and motivation.

Cassandre

I would say choose a school that is best for the major that the child is interested in and make sure to visit the school and also make sure the school is accredited and a top school to attend in the state