North Central College Top Questions

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

Basia

I would tell myself not to stress out too much. College is not that hard, it just seems difficult to get used to functioning much more independently than before. There are lots of people to help with the transition, and things aren't nearly as strict as they seem. Being late is more okay than in high school and there is always much more time to get between classes. Homework levels are about the same as high school, and in general, college has more free time than high school. Major-related classes start to get harder than they once were, but hard work still pays off in good grades. Biology labs get much more interesting than high school labs were, and finally, people are much more accepting and less judgemental than high school people are.

Isabella

Do you remember that suffocating feeling that made you pick pencil after pencil out of the box and sharpen them to obsessive perfection while choking on the fear that you might accidentally break all of your pencils and end up failing your first AP exam? College feels a lot like that for me, but I've learned it shouldn't be. Sometimes life gets frightening, and it's okay to be scared of what might happen. It is okay to be scared, especially when you go into something as daunting as moving from high school to college. I know you have been scared. But after you took that AP test and you got your score back, you did pretty good, didn't you? Even after you said that you were terrible at that subject. In the future, you might delude yourself into thinking that you can't do anything, that you're too scared, but never let yourself be trapped by that. You are more than what you think you can't do, and more than what you fear. So sharpen pencils if you need that comfort, but don't ever forget to do your best on the test.

Dennise

You couldn’t have known your first university would turn out to be a bust. How could you have known your first year would be the most discouraging time of your life? As you peered into the cafeteria and observed laughing students together and living the ever romanticized college experience, you blamed yourself. You stayed on campus well past your class hours to try clubs that would never meet again or were not a fit. Don’t look down that apartment window. High school encourages four-year colleges for fear of lower matriculation rates from community colleges. You know you wouldn’t have given up in community college. Two years and four universities later, was it all worth the hype? Not at the cost of your self preservation. Knowing your student debt will be above national average is the biggest slap in the face. Yes, the Golden Gate Bridge is beautiful. This time, your teachers were wrong. Your college readiness class was wrong. It’s okay to go to community college first. Save yourself the sanity.

Christopher

The advice I would give myself would be mostly about football. I do great academically and have no problems in the classroom. I would tell myself to work harder in the weightroom and on the football field. College football is a big step up from high school football and I didn't realize how much tougher it would be. You're no longer the star of the team in college, everyone is as good, if not better, than you are. I would stress lifting more as well as running more to get in shape and to get faster because college football is much more fast paced.

Christopher

As a high school student, I never recognized the possibilities of a good education. High school, you still are guided by the teachers as far as making you do your assigned work. Many students still don't know what they want to study nor how they want to explore further education for their futures. Education is very important if you want to achieve your goal in life and make it in the working enviroment. My advise to myself would be, pay attention in class, study hard, never say "I can't do" or "don't understand", go and make that extra effort to get support from faculty. Achieving all good grades and having a good GPA or high ACT score, allowed me to go to a college where all that hard work in high school has been recognized and rewards have been presented to me with scholarships. I also have my parents to thank for, who have always supported me

Danielle

I would tell myself that it's all going to be okay, that doing the best you can is better than nothing at all. Have confidence in yourself, love yourself more and be the absolutely amazing person that you are. I would say that there's a whole life waiting for you just past these four years of college and you'll get there, you'll make it because you are amazing and you will succeed at everything you are and want to be. Just have faith and love everyone, they're all fighting too.

Lauren

Dear Lauren, Next year you will finally be going to college. First, I know you are very confused on where you should attend. There are so many different options. The perfect plan for you is to go to a commuinty college. High school has not prepared you for the university life. Plus you will get homesick. You need your family more than ever. Once you graduate, you can transfer. Second, you have worked since you were 15, so save your money! I know you enjoy socializing, but you will regret not saving. Trust me, it will help you in the long run! Third, focus on school. I know since you were a freshman you have thought you needed a boyfriend. This will distract you! Stay focused on your future! I know as you are reading this letter you are probably thinking, "blah. Yeah right." You will eventually learn this on your own, but take my advice while you have the chance! I'll be honest, growing up is hard, but you will it make it. No matter how hard life gets do not give up! You will do great in life! Stay true to yourself, Me

Cris

The college life demands much more discipline than what you experienced in high school, and in different ways. To be successful and enjoy your transition, one must organize their time in such a way that allows for school work to be completed as well as for fun to be had. The easiest way to be successful is by putting in the effort to complete the tasks that must be done first and then enjoying the sense of accomplishment afterwards. It's crucial to stay on top of all assignments and classes, so that you do not fall behind. By the same token, developing relationships and friendships is one of the most rewarding things that you can experience. Make the effort to meet people and initiate the friendliness around campus. as by way of karma it will certainly be rewarded. However, the most important thing to remember is that 20 years from now, you will not remember the stress you had over the assignment that was due, but rather the memories you made and the experiences that filled your time.

Kristen

When I was a senior in high school, I was very excited to move on with my life by going to college. By graduating from a semester school and transitioning into a trimester college I knew would be something very different. If I were to go back in time as a senior at Lincoln-Way East High School in 2011, I would advise myself to work as much as possible over the summer because unfortunately, college is not always affordable. I would find a second job and work as much as I could. Besides looking at the financial need of college, I would advise myself to have as much fun as you can at college because it is four years of your life as a young adult you cannot take back. Make college a great experience for yourself and get involved.

Zac

I would tell myself to make every single mistake that I did. The only difference would be that I would change my mindset about school and about how seriously I take it. I would say, "You're going to make a huge mistake freshman year, get caught up in the moment, and be expelled. Don't change a thing. Lutheran was a fantastic experience and changed you to be who I am today. Enjoy every single moment of both schools, the class and life lessons that you learn are more important than they seem. Being at Lutheran will get you back on the right path at a time when you're still figuring out the kind of person you'll be. The mistake you need to change though, is your work ethic in school. Not so that you can get in a different school or get a better scholarship, but because you owe it to yourself to value the intelligence you were born with. You'll go 4 full years wasting your time unless you do this. You'll still have all the same experiences but the confidence and self-respect that come with working harder would be invaluable; please."

Haley

If I could talk to my younger self, I would tell myself that it is okay to excel. Since I have attended college, I have discovered how much I love learning and doing well in school. It is a passion that I suffocated for so many years because of the remarks people made to me about my good grades. I was a self conscious high school student who just wanted to fit in and not be known as the nerdy girl who actually did all of the assigned work. I stopped performing as well in all areas of school so that I could be like the majority of the other students. Looking back, I deeply regret that choice. I have always loved learning, but for far too many years, I hid my desire to learn from others. Now that I no longer do that, I am much happier and I am performing to my highest potential in school. I have also realized to what extent my love for learning is and how it has matured over the years. I don't know if I would listen, but this is definitely something I want my former self to know.

Emily

Emily, you need to be extremely open in the college choosing/transitioning process. Look at colleges you wouldn't normally look at, go on as many tours as possible, but don't apply to too many schools. Keep it narrowd down. Make the right decision based on what you learn. I know you don't know what you want to do, but thats ok. The first term is all about finding a way to get involved and make friends, so focus on that first and worry about choosing a major later. You'll just stress yourself out more than you need. But still put yourself out there even if its scary--you won't regret it. The most important part about transitioning is patience. You're not going to make friends right away, and you're going to have a rough time at first--and it's ok. It'll take a little time but you'll figure everything out just be patient. Things get easier when you just go with the flow, one day at a time. And if it gets too hard, mom and dad are just a phone call away.

Amber

Just take a moment to breathe and relax - everything will work out fine. Yes, at the beginning the transition can be very overwhelming: you're living in a whole new environment, possibly away from your parents and relatives for the first time, and may not initially know anyone or where anything is. But the college knows this! That's why colleges have first-year orientation programs and introductory courses to acclimate you with college life. That's why you might have welcome picnics or retreats, or go to an event with your orientation group, such as the first football game of the season. Not all colleges offer this, but if it's important to you, you can find a college that does. Although you may never believe it at first (I sure didn't!) college will eventually become your home away from home, and at some point, you will likely find yourself not wanting to leave it. So just relax, be yourself, and be willing to accept some changes. At college, you may find the people, passions, and/or professions that could forever change your life.

andrea

If i was to take this chance again of going back and giving myelf advice would be making sure I am prepared. I would take any summer courses in math, english, and writing and taking time to work on my basketball skills as well. I also would tell myself that scholarships are needed if you want to attend a private school and not have to worry about all the loans that I took out just to fund my freshman and sophmore year. It is very expensive and anybody that is willing to help you recieve free money by writing an essay or answering some questions is only good for you in the long run. I would aslo say to myself to atleast have an idea of what you want to study before you make your transiton then you will be able to make clear decisons and not as many mistakes with choosing a major and changing it three or four times before you choose exactly what you want your degree to be in. I would also say that you have to enjoy yourself and take every opportunity that comes your way.

Dana

My undergraduate college experience resulted in immense personal and professional growth. As a first generation college student, I not only improved myself through higher education, but opened the door to the importance and reality of a college education for the rest of my family. While previous generations of my family never had the opportunity to attend college, I am confident that all future generations will aggressively seek higher education. As the first college graduate in the family, I have set even higher goals for myself and am currently enrolled in graduate school to become the first Phd!

Kevin

I entered college with only a hint of an idea for a future but now within my second year I am following two passions towards psychology and musical theatre that I developed early on in my college journey. The opportunities available for my two studies has allowed to me both focus on the things I love while still pursuing other likes. North Central has been the best transition from high school days of sitting through class waiting for the bells to enjoying what I study.

Elizabeth

There are many things that make college worth attending. One of the most obvious is that it makes a person able to enter the real world with your best foot forward. In college classes I have learned a lot by taking business and law classes , such as knowing about contracts. It also helps with practicing with working with a group. Taking the law classes also helped me more fully understand what I need to do, if I decide that I want to become a judge in the court system. Also by the end of college you have become frriends , and therefore made connections with people that might be useful in the future with business opprotunities. During college I have also realized the importance of time management.

Angelica

My college experience so far is wonderful. I have learned alot with the smaller classes that North Central has to offer. The teachers and staff are all very helpful. Everyone is so close knit it's great. My class is the biggest class North Central has ever had which is approximately 3000 students. There are free tutors available to help with anything you might need with class work. The Dyson center is a medical office the school provides for free. It is very convienient and helps alot.

Jessica

Hoping to get alot of experience when I attend college. I plan on going for Medical Administrative Assistant. It will help me get a good job and be able to provide for me and my family in the future. I also love to learn new things and feel that this would be a good new experience for me!

Christine

I have learned so much throughout one year of college. Knowing how to manage time and having the right mind set to getting school work done has been the main focus out of this year. It was valuable to attend a private school because the teachers really focus on the student's schoolwork more in depth which makes the students work harder for a better grade. It has been a challenge to get the right kind of paper written for the professors and just adjusting to other people's rules has become a huge lesson I have learned. Knowing how to manage time wisely made all the students become more responsible and be able to become more independent. In the future it is going to be so helpful when I start a job and learn to work with many different people and how to manage with their ideas. Also, it was good to attend this college because it was helpful to learn to start a life on my own and not always depend of my family or parents all the time.

Carissa

I learn something new everyday at NCC. Living on campus has taught me a lot about what it is like to be independant, responsible, and also about the things that I need to change to become the person that I want to be. This experience has changed the way I think about the world and has opened me up to oppertunites I didn't even know existed.

Brittany

Throughout every generation, there is bound to be fear. Fear of the unknown and of inexperience. Two things that if you allow them to, can determine your standing in life. I have thus far only taken three short semesters of schooling at a junior college in my hometown, but they have opened my eyes to a world of possibilities that I never allowed myself to fathom throughout my years in high school. I have learned so quickly what I want to do in life and where I want my passions to take me. I may not have the funds to get myself there right now but I believe in patience and faith. College has taught me that faith and heart can get you where you want to be, you just have to believe

Jennifer

My college experience has enabled me to participate in a wide variety of activities. I have been involved in volunteer programs, the orientation staff, and other activities on campus. I have met a diverse population of individuals, and have been exposed to a great center for higher education. I truly love North Central College, and feel that it has been valuable to attend, because it has prepared me for the future. Not only will I be able to exceed career-wise, but attending North Central has increased my confidence and the level of self-worth I have. This campus enriches individuals and makes all feel truly welcome. The level of faculty assistence and involvement is one of a kind. I have learned that a close-knit college community provides the ultimate experience.

Dara

As a young adult, the freedom of college life is something that must be respected. Working toward course goals and requirements can become monotonous and it is very easy to become distracted with surrounding opportunities or events that will prove to be much more interesting. Stay focused on the end prize. When work is completed, there will be plenty of time for celebration and fun and games. Plan your schedule accordingly to allow yourself time to work; time to relax; time with friends and family. Study in a group setting to glean additional information from classmates concerning the coursework. Be prepared to engage in discussions that further your knowldege and understanding of the topics in the course(s). When in doubt, or if coursework is difficult, do not hesitate to call upon a tutor to assist you in "getting it." There is never a "dumb" question; the one you ask may help others have a clearer understanding of the topic(s). Know your limits and know when to say no. Education is an opportunity to expand your world; revel in the experience and allow it to make you a stronger, positive force in society.

SOFIA

The one thing i would tell my self and wish someone told me is that, Without education you are nobody, you have to make sure you pursue your dreams and work on becoming the woman you deserve to be, life is always going to have ups and downs, but do not let that side track you from pursuing your education, it is the only thing that can change your circumstances, no excuses! you need to be the one to make a difference in your life, working constantly and living paid check to paid check isn't going to be good enough, you might think you can't afford college, and you don't wanna be in debt, but you just don't know how easy it is once you enroll and just have different scholorships to apply for, different grants are going to be available to you, your life will be better you will feel good about yourself knowing you are doing something for yourself and mostly for your kids one day, you want to set a good example for them. i love you and good luck with colleg.

Zee

If I could go back to talk to myself as a high school senior the first thing I would do is put my arm around his shoulder and say "Lets find somewhere to sit.". I would tell him to be brave and not worry about not having the strength to go to college at eighteen. I would reassure him that everyone has to travel their own path and although by the time he reaches college and all his friends will be graduating, he will be much the wiser for his journey. I would tell him to not be afraid to fall on his face and live life as an adventure. Never be afraid to be an individual, to try to love without asking for anything in return. I would tell him to always be inquisitive because you willl then always live life starring wide-eyed at this wonderful world like the small child he once was. I would also tell him to kiss his mother and tell her he loves her everyday.

Margaret

As a senior I had lots of ideas of what I would do and who I'd become in college, but life took me a different way when the economy crashed and took my college fund with it. If I could I would tell 18 year old self the benefits of going to community college. I'd originally thought I wouldn't be able to gain from the experience, but after a year I'd been able to explore some of my interests like art history and philosophy while saving myself from student loans and high interest rates. I was also able to gain work experience while going to school, being a part time manager at a local business gave me perspective as to how school was so necessary to my future, and how my own consumption was affecting the world around me. I learned about life outside of school. The biggest thing I would want to tell myself is to see college as more than a building of bricks and mortar, but a learning experience for you want to live your life. Its not about the college brand name, but the name you make for yourself in the world.

Justin

I would start to prepare for this new chapter called college by sitting down with my parents or guardians and discuss my plans for the next 2-4 years. I would also examine what my career goals are and the what the best way to reach those goals are. I sometimes wish that I would have taken the Junior College route to save a few thousand dollars of the money that has been devoted to a private school education. My main piece of advice would be to tell myself that it is never too early to start saving for school. At times it can be financially troublesome when students are away from home for the first time with spending money on the wrong items. Successfully managing a debit or credit card is essential to keeping your finances headed in the right direction.

Juan

As a high school senior, I spent most of my time preparing for my freshman year as a college student. However, one thing I would change would be the lack of effort I put into my senior year. I took easier classes than I usually do, and even though I did't actually blow off any classes, I got pretty lazy. If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would tell myself to not take culinary arts, and take physics or biology. When I was in high school, I never thought that I would become a biochemistry major. I never particularly enjoyed science, but I always did well regardless. When my classes started here at NCC, my major was athletic training. Soon afterwards however, I decided that I wanted to be an eye-doctor. My best shot to get into graduate school for this profession was to switch my major to biochemistry. So, against everything I thought as a high school student, I will now be taking mostly science orientated classes. That extra experience I blew off in high school no doubt could of been helpful in getting me started on the right foot.

Darette

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to start the year out strong. In high school a lot of the material that we learned was spoon fed to us. There was always an outline of the lesson printed out for us in the morning whether it was math or social science; it didn't matter. I came into my freshman year still having the same mentality and study habits that I had my senior year of high school. Turns out what works in high school, doesn't always carry over the same when you get to college. My grades for my first term were not horrible, but they sure weren't what I hoped they would be. Now that I've finally had a taste of the college life as far as education goes, I know what I need to do to achieve my goals for the terms to come.

Kyle

I would not have to give myself any advice other than, don't be so nervous about it. College is awesome and you will meet a lot of new people as well. The college life is great and with being on a sports team, it will make your year go by that much faster. With being on a sports team, you may not have a lot of time to do the stuff you thought you would be doing, but you will always have time to do homework and study, and relaxing and hanging out will come on the weekends. I would also have to tell myself, to prepare to not eat as much food as normal, with coming to North Central College. I would also say, do not worry about missing high school, because high school is nothing compared to college. You will become more free of parents telling you what to do and it will be time to make all the decisions on your own. If you do not want to do something like clean or laundry, you do not have to right away. And the roommate situation is great by having a friend from high school. Have FUN!!!

Kristina

One thing I would make sure to tell myself is "do not choose such easy classes a senior. I know that it's your last year, but you will need a lot of these skills in college, especially your first year. One class you need to take as a senior is math. College math will be so much harder without that last review. You should also get a head start on Spanish because once you're here, they don't care that you have never taken a Spanish in your life. On a less educational level, make sure you don't lose your best friends. You may need that bit of comfort while your away. It's not easy to form those bonds now that you built as a freshman in high school. Just remember these things and your first year will be just a tad bit easier."

Madeleine

Madeleine, Study hard and don't slack off during the senior year. Those slacking study habits will carry over to the freshman in college term. Too many freshman in college slacked off the senior year, that I've seen, and fail out the first semester because the study habits have been ruined by slacking previously. Keep up your personality and join as many clubs as you feel fit. That's the best way to make friends. Drinking in college is the dumbest thing to do, especially when making the transition. Yes, you are free from parents decisions, but you are now responsible to make your own. Don't make a stupid decision to drink on the weekends heavily. Too many bad things will result, and if it isn't this time, it will be the next. Embrace college with open arms and go out to meet new people, especially the foriegn exchange students, it never hurts to have another friend.

Jessica

Three years ago I moved from my hometown almost four hours north to attend a college that I thought I was prepared for. If I could go back in time and tell myself, as a high school senior, things to expect transitioning from high school to college I would start off with advising myself to stay focused. I always knew I wanted to attend school away from home but I would tell myself to save money so I would not have to stress about spending or trying to find a job with the fall of the economy. The first year of college can make or break your future. Seniors in high school think they are on top of the world, I thought that way anyways. Attending a private, 4yr college quickly changed my mind. I have a lot to learn and I wish I could go back in time to tell myself that there is something new to learn everyday and be prepared for everything, stay organized, and most of all to not slack off. It is better to get the job done sooner than later. Procrastinating should be the 8th deadly sin. Most of all, make long-lasting friends.

Kevin

Be prepared for anything, college is a brand new experience and something worth looking forward to. One's life doesn't have to be planned out the day of high school graduation because college allows for exploration in fields of interests and is a transition from life spent at home with parents to living in "the real world" as an individual. Even though I'm only a freshman in college, I would suggest taking every opportunity offered and maybe even creating opportunities for others and in the end everything will work out!

Lisa

In making the transition into college, my best advice is to get involved on campus. Being involved in a team or group really allows you to get to know more students on campus and interact in a new area. While being involved on campus, you can form study groups and count on those around you to help with academics as well. I would also suggest to ask for help when it is needed. Everyone on campus is very helpful and strives to help you succeed. Do not be afraid to meet new people and request help.

Mallory

I would want to tell myself to really investigate what I want to do. Including possible jobs for the future and what degrees and experiences I would need for that. To reach out to professionals in the fields I am interested in and really get a feel for the "real world" so I would know what path was good for me. I changed my major multiple times and am now going to start grad school because I have finally found the path I want for my life, I just wish I had started it sooner.

Sarah

Choose WISELY. Keep all your options open, apply to any schools that even slightly strike your interest. Visit schools, make sure that you talk to your parents about financial aid and living on campus. Know what you want in your school - do you want a party school or a dry campus, an athletics-focused or academics-focused school, are you looking for diversity? Make sure you know what your main priorities are in finding a school and weed out those that do not fit the requirements. even if friends or significant other is attending one school, it may not be the school for you. Make sure the school has your major/minor that you're thinking about, maybe even your back-up majors/minors.

Sal

Look for a college that your child is comfortable with because it's definitely an experience that they will never forget.

Andrea

Absolutely visit!

Madeline

My biggest word of advice would be to not let someone make the decision for you. For the student, it is all about what college fits them best, not what college do they best fit in. The process is sometimes too focused on applying to top ten colleges in the nation, rather than emphasizing the fact that that school may not be the right one for the student. Ending up at the wrong school for you is very frustrating and so the process needs to be taken slowly. The one way that a student can make the most out of their college experience is to use it a s a learning and growing experience, and a time to become an adult. It pushes you to become your own parent and provider because you are in control of everything. Along with that, the people that you chose to surround yourself with will either make or break your experience. My motivation for making the most of my college experience is my future goal in life. You cannot slack and give up because this is the one time in one's life that means everything.

Megan

Be picky! If you don't love it keep looking. But also don't forget that just becuase you choose a college you have to stick with it for all 4 years. You aren't stuck. Get out and look around at lots of schools as a junior in highschool. The more schools you take a look at and the more students you can interact, the greater your confidence will be about your decision. Don't choose a school becuase of your boyfriend or girlfriend. Choose a college becuase you love it. Make sure your family agrees becuase they are your support system through life. Lastly, ENJOY EACH PART OF YOUR LIFE. Savor your memories of high school and of college and the rest of your life becuase each day is a gift. That's why it's called the present : )

Dominique

To both parents and students, visit the colleges you are thinking about attending. One of the most important things is making sure the college is right for you. By visiting the college in person, you can get a feel of what the college will be like. To the parents of young students; Let your child decide. Set limits such as distance from home, or financial stability, but let your child have the last word. After all it is their future. For the student. This is one of the most important decisions of your life. Choose it wisely. Choose the college that makes your feel like you belong. The right college may not be the cheapest. The right college will not always have everything you need there. But the right college will make you happy and proud to be apart of it. The right college will make you never want to leave.

Christine

Students, try as many clubs and classes as you can, or you will never know if there was one that would have truly inspired you. Leave your dorm room door open. Your best friends will be the ones who come in asking for superglue and never leave. Don?t be afraid to initiate a friendship. Don?t be afraid to end it doesn't feel right. Don?t worry if an epiphany doesn?t appear the moment you step foot on campus. You will grow, but it will be a gradual process. Only when you look back, can you realize how far you?ve come. College is preparation for the future, for sure, but don?t get so caught up in what will be, that you can?t enjoy what is. Once you get out in the real world, you will look back and miss the games, the late night coffee runs, and the friends who lived no more than five minutes away. And finally, take pictures. You will be glad you did. Parents, learn to let go, and if your children come home with laundry, offer to do it. You have no idea how much it means to us.

Danielle

Great facilities and location are both important, but it's really the people that make a great school. Talk to as many people as you can when visiting schools, get a feel for the overall atmosphere of the school.

Spencer

In the end, you have to choose what you feel is right for you, what you want to accomplish, and where you are able to gain the most opportunities. There are thousands of colleges in the country that you can choose from, and some definitely resemble others and are expendable. When you visit a college however, and are walking around the campus with a smile on your face and have a gut feeling that you know this college is right for you is when you make your decision. It happened to me when I first looked at North Central College in Naperville, IL and I haven't looked back since. I have made lifelong friendships and connections that will stick with me for the rest of my life and that is what I hope every senior in high school achieves when attending college.

Michelle

When looking for a college or university, I found that campus visits were the most important aspect. If the campus is small and empty on a visit, then when you attend, the college will most likely still be small and empty. Looking for a school that best fits your personality and style is crucial to a fulfilling college experience. If you want an active and friendly community, the best way to discover where that is would be to visit and immerse yourself in that community for a few days. After deciding on a college, be sure to get involved in campus activities. Whether student government, community service clubs, or some sort of leisure activities, campus activities allow you to express yourself and meet students outside of your major and classes. I have met my closest and best friends through the clubs that I have joined.

Lisa

Some advice I would give to students searching for the right college would be the following: 1) Take the time to visit the campus. It is very helpful to see what is around the campus and see where you will be living. 2) Look at the size of the campus. Some people enjoy the small schools, and others enjoy the bigger schools. And lastly, 3) Academically, find a school that has your area of study. If you are undecided, it is important to see which school you think you can be the most successful. Advice I would give about making the most of your college experience is to have fun! Live on campus, enjoy meeting new people, and make lifetime friends, while you continue your education. The most important thing is to get your school work done, so you have time to enjoy life!

Mark

If you visit a school and it feels like home, it probably will be the best place to start your education.

Sarah

I would make a point to not pick a school and only keep that school in mind. Widen your choices. When I was looking at schools, I thought I had found the perfect school and would hardly take any more into consideration, but when that school fell through, I realized that I had a problem. My school now is comfortable, and I am glad that I considered it, but because of my stubborness, I missed out on the one school I really wanted to attend. I would also add, that once in college, make friends. Everyone always thinks that they won't make any friends or that they won't fit in, however, if one doesn't assert themself, they will be eating alone, studying alone, and definitely not socializing. I thought I wouldn't find any friends, but I made great friends with the girls next door to me, who just so happened to be in band with me. Find someone with a common hobby or activity. This will help tremendously to make friends as well as keep oneself going through the toughest parts of adjusting to a new environment that we call college.