University of Kansas Top Questions

I think the most important thing to remember is comfort; look hard at the college to which you're considering applying and ask yourself, "Does this sound like the right place for me? Am I going to be comfortable here?" That isn't speaking strictly to academics. When I was applying, there were several schools that offered competitive degree programs, but after visiting the campus, I walked away feeling like the atmosphere just wasn't suited to my style. And I think that's totally natural; not every place is for everyone, and sometimes it takes a good eye and some determination to find the kind of university where you step foot on the campus and think, "This is it. This is me." And while academics may come first, a lot of what college life truly offers is a chance to explore things you haven't been exposed to before. Make sure the university you choose is going to let you do the kinds of things you want--both inside the classroom and out.

I would tell parents to not focus so much on the quaity of the school but on the dedication of thier child and willingness to succeed. Also they must undertand the personality of their child. If their child is timid, shy and tends to be homesick, it woud be wise to pick a smaller local school. Big universities are more for students who are indipendent and outgoing. I beieve that if your child is dedicated enough to succede that they will do well whereever they go. However, I also believe that larger universities tend to challenge the students more because of the diverse sets of people that the student will have to learn to deal with on a daily basis. All in all, you are going to want to find a school that will both fix your childs needs but also challenges them to go outside of their comfort zone.

With regards to finding the right school for you, I think it is very important to have a good idea of what you are wanting to do after school. For example, the University of Kansas is geared more towards pre-health degrees whereas Kansas State University has a great school of engineering and agriculture program. Knowing what you want to do after school can help make the decision very easy. Also, make sure that you are comfortable at the school. If you are not comfortable, the learning experience and social experience will only make everything more difficult and less fun. As far as the experience, you also need to make sure you are comfortable with the school. Furthermore, make sure to get involved with things you know you love as well as new things so you can learn more about what you love and experience new things.

Get information about the colllege from various other students and check out the campus for yourself for a week.

My best advice is to visit the campus. That way you can get a feel for the campus and actually see yourself there. The campus tours are really helpful and go into it with an open mind.

Follow the student's instincts as to what is right for the student. Prior to making a choice visit various campus situations such as an athletic event and a college town. Additionally, discuss what the student wants to study and how long the course of study will take.

Finding the right college is just like finding a girlfriend/boyfriend. You need to know what you want in a school. And not everyone has the same taste. There is the size, cost, and location of the school. However, there are other things such as research opportunities, greek life, and career possibilites to consider. You cannot pick a school just by reading the brochure! A college visit is a must! It is even ok to visit schools you may not be as interested in. Not only will you learn what you do like, you will learn what you don't like in schools. This may make it easier to pick a school later on. I was a "big fish" in high school and I took a pretty big blow to my self esteem in college when I struggled with coursework for the first time in my life. Consider talking to current students (not just admissions, which is trying to convince you to choose their school) of schools you are intersted in. They are more likely to give you the honest truth about campus going-ons than an admissions counselor. Good luck!

When you trying to find the perfect place to go to school just walk around the campus and see if it feels right. When i walk around my campus I feel at home. Even though i have problems with the administration sometimes and can feel lost in the crowd, It keeps me going to feel like the campus is my home. The acedemics are important too, but they are no substitute for sitting on the campus green and feeling like you belong. Ultimitly you will be happy with any university as long as you feel like you belong there.

Finding the right college is tought. Do your research! Visit potential school that you would like to attend. There is no better way to learn about a school than to actually visit the campus. You don't want to attend a school when you feel no connection with the people or the campus. Attending a campus tour helps a lot, you just might find the school of your dreams that way. Making the most of the college experience is what is most important. Join student organizations and just be active in anything you possibly can! You make SO many new friends and learn a lot as a person. It will also help with all this character building that our parents have been instilling in our brains when we were young. Being active is the way to go!

I think the best piece of advice I have heard since coming to college that I wish I had heard before I came to college is that it doesn't really matter what the initial costs of your education are, provided that you don't plan on being a failure. I think if I had heard that before going to college I would have allowed myself to open up to the possibilities of traveling around and finding the best school to fit with me and my major. Provided you don't plan on failure, it doesn't matter how much you take out in student loans so that you are able to completely focus on whatever it is you need to do to accomplish your goals and complete your major. The most important thing you are going to school for is the experience, the knowledge, and the community. If you constantly have to focus on working, you won't be able to put all your effort into what it is you want to do for the rest of your life. Not in a competative way, anyway. You will always be better off picking a school whereyou really want to be.

I would tell the student to go where there heart desires. Your parents may not agree that it is the best choice but you all should talk it out. This is one of your first adult choices, make it for you. If you go where your heart is telling you, that is where you will achieve the most. And get involved in what ever school you do choose. Good luck!

Just pick what works for you. Don't worry about what your family wants, its your life. You are the one that has to be happy. Get involved. You will be miserable if you don't. Come out of your shell and show people who you really are. They will love you for it.

My advice would be to take the time and actually go visit each college you're interested in no matter what. If I hadn't visited the University of Kansas I would have never realized what I was about to miss out on if I had decided to go elsewhere. The minute I stepped on to campus I knew that no matter what happened here I wouldn't regret it because it was a start to something new and terrifying/exciting in my life. I made friends that eventually turned into family and that I won't ever forget no matter where life takes each and every one of us. I came to Lawrence, KS not knowing how things would turn out, who I would meet that would change my life, and if I would find what I was looking for in my life. Fortunately for me, I found the greatest people that I could ever ask for, an advisor who will be my mentor and hero for forever, and teachers that have changed my life more than they'll ever know. While I made some poor choices I regret nothing here, if anything it made me better and stronger!

Visit as many as you can, but ultimately no matter what the prestige of the college may be, let your student make their own decision as to where they feel most comfortable.

When deciding on a college, my best advice would be to first decide what you want to do for a living. What do you plan on majoring in? Then think about whether distance from home matters to you or not. If you are an undecided major, I would suggest attending a Community College where you can take classes for a lot less money and get your general classes out of the way. Making the most out of college is all up to you. You have the resources at almost any college you attend to become anyone you want. Be aggressive in whatever it is you choose to do.

You don't always have to be where your friends are in college. Making new friends is the most important part of school (aside from the academics). College is the most frusterating yet rewarding time of a young person's life and to make the best of it you have to throw caution to the wind and get out. Make sure to live in a dormitory if you can, you'll meet friends for life there. Make sure you take the classes you're interested in because you won't have the motivation to study if you're not interested in the subject. Find places off campus to hang out and make your own, you'll be living in this city for 4 years or more so it's important to feel as comfortable as possible. AND it's okay to be homesick, no one cares if you call your mom every day.

Start saving early and often. Don't only apply to one school. Make sure to visit many campuses and talk to college friends about their experiences.

To take a campus visit, find out all the information about clubs and organizations, and get a true feel for the school by attending at least one major athletic event

What led me to The University of Kansas? Was it the gorgeous, rolling hills of Lawrence? Was it the tradition? The tuition? The football and basketball teams? These things I indeed love, but they didn't bring me here. In June 2006 I moved from New York to a small Kansas town. I hated it! I wanted out. Until... I was introduced to another, yet very different, small Kansas town. Lawrence is where I fell in love with Kansas. It was there that I met the people who will be in my life forever. It was there, after a nomadic-at-best 18 years of life as an Army Brat in 14 different towns on two continents, that I found home. And in Kansas I'll stay...for...well, forever. Two years later, as the sound of the campus belltower wafts gently through my window with the chilled night air, I realize that the most vital factor in my choice to attend KU was my heart. So seniors, go where your heart takes you and settle for no less than love. Find a place you never want to leave. Then, it's up to you to make your mark.

Don't limit yourself. Look everywhere, even if you think it is too much money, or too far away, or too small or big. Do not limit yourself, look at all of your options. You may regret your decision if you limit yourself

1. Research programs (majors) online 2. Visit college campuses 3. Apply early to be eligible for school scholarships 4. Make a pro-con chart 5. Shadow someone in your intended major at school of choice OR school unsure about - make sure you like the everyday life there - can help decide on or rule out a school 6. Check out Study Abroad programs - excellent experience!

Well, first It all depends on what a person wants to major in. Each school has their strong focuses and their weak focuses. Next it would depend on how much the child is dependent on the parent, and if the child would get home sick. If they get home sick or relys on their parents than it would b a good idea to find a campus closer to home. Finally, they need to go to school for them, instead of following a best friend or the love of their life because people change. My mother always go to school to get an education and not a Mrs. degree.

Make sure you can see yourself there, if you can't move on. I recommend big state schools because of the amazing and diverse oportunities they have to offer. Also, as soon as you settle in, try to get involved in something that interests you like a job or university activing. Joining the Ultimate Frisbee team, which is run through our recreation services department, was the best thing I ever did!!

First, I would advise parents to start saving money for thier children's college experience early as possible. Money may not seem important before your child goes to college, but money is a necessity if you want your child to be able to go to college. I had a hard time with money problems and now receive no help from my parents. Next, don't go to a college just because your parents want you to go there. You will be the one spending four plus years there, not them. Don't worry about where their alma mater is because what is important is that you start your own traditions and legacy. Another important piece of advise is dont follow your friends or boyfriend/girlfriend to whatever school they are going to. If it is meant to last, it will last no matter where you go to school. Basing your decision on what someone else does is never a good choice because you will never be happy. Lastly, go with your gut. Most of the time your initial instinct can tell you more than you ever know. Enjoy college, it really is the best four years!

My best advice for parents is to help your children pick a college do not choose for them. I know more than one person that is attending a college they do not enjoy, but they are attending the school because of pressure from their parents. Doing well in college is about enjoying where you are. If the student enjoys the school they are attending they will work harder in classes. My advice for students is to get involved and develop good study habits. Being involved in campus life is a major key to success. Being involved in clubs, attending sporting events, and getting to know people with different backgrounds will broaden your outlook on life, your school, and will help you gain school spirit. My second key to doing well is developing good study habits. This is not high school anymore and it cannot be treated like it. My study habits in high school was terrible, but I got through with a great GPA. If I would not have changed my study habits I would have flunked out by now. College courses are very demanding and they cannot be taken lightly. This is the foundation for your future!

Many of my friends decided to go to certain colleges because they would have friends there. Choosing a college because your friends are going there is not the best decision. Following others will not give you what you want in life. You should pick a school that offers what you need whether it is financial aid, your favorite extracurricular activities and/or interesting courses. Kansas University offers all of the above. Whether you know what you want to major in or not, Kansas University offers everyone an excellent well-rounded education. Taking courses in various subjects, having one-on-one time with instructors and/or becoming involved in school activities will help you discover yourself, your goals and your dreams. Without attending Kansas University, I would not have been able to grow and realize my dreams. Before attending Kansas University, I attended a small community college. Transferring to Kansas University to continue my degree was one of the best choices I have made. Kansas University allowed me to gain more self-confidence and become more involved. Going to Kansas University can offer you the same things and more.

Talk to strangers. Student orientations are a great opportunity to tour and get a little information about the campus, but college is all about talking to strangers - and thus making connections. Those strangers are all possible classmates, roommates, friends, teachers, coworkers, or even future connections to career opportunities. They know the college life on and off the campus, and what they have to say will tell you more about whether or not you'll be happy than any tour of a library. Do not be afraid or embarrassed. Holding back will not get you anywhere in college or life. The more connections you make, the more opportunities will present themselves to you. So talk to strangers, and turn them into something more.

Picking a school should not be taken lightly. At first glance, picking a school for it's academics is the way to go, but there are so many other aspects of college life that must be considered. Think about if you want to go greek, if you like the sports teams, the school's journalism program, or how good their top choir is. Think, "is this college too far away?" or maybe," is it far enough away"? I started at a smaller college for my first two years, and made a very smooth transition to the university I am at now. Like I said picking a school should not be taken lightly, but once you find the one for you, hopefully it'll make you into the college grad you'll soon become! Good luck!

The best advice that I could give for choosing a school is to visit a variety of different schools. When coming out of high school most students have no idea what they want out of a college and the only way to find that out is to keep an open mind and visit a variety of different schools that are small, large, east coast, west coast, mid west, etc. With a variety of experiences it makes the decision of which school most likely will fit a students persona much more accurate and simple. Also, be true to yourself, do not go to a certain school because that is where yor high school friends may be going, because it oculd hurt yourself in the long run, it is much more important to be true to yourself. I know this from experience, I went to an out of state University where I knew 2 people prior to my first day i nthe dorms freshmen year. And it was the best decision I have ever made because I learned so much about what I am capable of achieving and accomplishing when I am put in a situation where I must rely on myself.

Students must start their college search as early as possible. Parents should be encouraging, not forceful. Students should involve their parents in the college search process because both parties, while having a common goal, weigh their concerns differently (finances, social life, housing). Both parties need to discuss what each is searching for and how college will be financed (scholarships, loans, part-time job). Once both parties have agreed upon a school, students must take charge of their own lives. While the opinion of a parent is important, a student must learn to take initiative. Students definately need to be as involved in organizations or volunteer work as their time permits. One of the fundamental accounting principles that applies to everything in life is that "for every debit, there must be a credit." Students will get as much out of their college experience as the effort they put into it.

It's crucial to visit a variety of schools, even if you think you already know where you want to go. I've found that the instincts and gut feelings we experience walking on a campus are extremely helpful and usually correct. A school has to feel right. Students, when you find the right one, you'll know. Parents, try to leave the decision up to the students as much as possible. Share your opinions if you have them, but try not to add any pressure. This is already an extremely stressful time for us. We need you to help us through it, not make it more painful. Once you've chosen, get involved. Walk around your dorm, knock on doors and meet people. Join a club that interests you. Freshman year is a great time to really put yourself out there because everyone is in the same boat. Everyone's nervous, alone and a little scared, and it's the perfect opportunity to make life-long friends. I've made better friends in college than I ever had growing up because we took this huge leap into our futures together. Most importantly, have fun!

I would say that go where ever you are the happiest. You can always apply for more financial aid if need be, but in the end you will be a lot happier with the school that you love instead of a university that you sort of liked that was a lot cheaper. I would just follow your heart, whichever school you love go there, and don't stress out too much!

I would simply advise that a prospective student finds a place they could feel at home in. It is extreemly important that you feel comfortable and happy. Student success demands a proper mindset. This state of mind is much easier to achieve if you're energized and ready to succeed. Finding a place that has promotes diversity, while at the same time sharing values that you posess will make the transition from home to college much smoother. Find a place that is easy to succeed in. Look for schools that are as goal-oriented as you are. If at all possible go to a place where you'll have some sort of background. Go to a school with a friend from your childhood, or return to a town you once spent a lot of time in. This is the one thing I can stress more than anything. Be happy. If you can find a place that makes you feel like you beling, everything else will fall into place.

The most important thing to remember when trying to decide what college is right for you is what type of person you are. Do not go somewhere because that is where your parents went or because all of your friends are going there. Go where you feel comfortable. Take a visit to every school you can, get as much information as possible on each school, and come to an educated decision based on your needs. If you do these things there is no doubt that you will find a school that you will be happy with. College is an opportunity to take on responsibility that you did not have in high school. It is a place that you can go and find yourself; it is the best time of your life and I wish you good luck in finding a school that will provide that for you.

The advice I see as most helpful to students and parents is to visit the school beforehand. Take some time to check out the campus and see if it would be well suited for your likes and dislikes. Talk with an advisor and see if this school relates well to the career or path in which you choose. Also, try and decide on a clear major prior to attending college. I made the mistake in just going to college and trying to figure out my path as I go, which has cost me a lot of money and time.

Finding the right college is always hard because you never know for sure what your experience will be. But the most important thing to consider is your learning direction and if the university has a good reputation for offering the type of curriculum you are interested in. Once you have decided and have been accepted to your college, you must make the most of it in many ways. You must get involved in student-run activities. You must use your professors' office hours to your advantage. You must realize the big picture and understand what your purpose is at school, this keeps your academic goals in line. You have to be willing to open your mind and learn not only in the classroom, but also in every other situation possible. Only then will you have made the most of your one chance at being a college student.

The two most important factors in determining the right college are status of the university nationally and regionally as well as the quality of life on campus. Now that I am interviewing for medical school, I have found that the prestige of a university correlates with the quality of the education. It brings a sense of achievement to trudge through school knowing that the end result will be a diploma from a renowned university. But the factor of utmost importance is the campus life scene. Staff who always give a smile and never cease to help, professors who aim at student success because it is their life goal, and students who work towards a cohesive student body all add to the vitality of the perfect university.

Look for a college that contains what you hold as the most valuable life experience whether that a campus social life, extracurricular activities, or a certain academic major.

The students have to decide what's right for them. Only they will know what they want to get out of school and what is right for them. It is still a very smart idea to take into consideration your parents opinions on school since more than likely they will be helping pay for it. To really get the best out of college you always have to keep reminding yourself that you are here for school and that should be your main focus. However, don't get so wrapped up in studying so much that you miss out on the great friends and experiences that are available at college. You don't have to even drink to make friends; you can easily make the responsible devision to not drink alcohol and you're still able to go out with friends and no one will care if you choose not to drink. Also, don't get too wrapped up in your social life, there's much more important things going on. My biggest suggestion is to stay organized and prioritized; if you do that then you should be able to balance work and play.

College can be hard for many reasons: you're on your own, harder classes, independence. Your future is in your hands. The University of Kansas does a great job at making you feel part of a whole. I reccomend living in an on-campus dormatory; you'll become acquanted with other students, most of whom will be in your general education classes. Take advantage of the Universities librarys, they really the perfect quiet setting to study at. Don't worry if you have no idea what you want to major in. You have until your Junior year to declare, and even then you can change your mind. Also, don't worry if your grades are not what they were in high school, it takes time to get into the groove of how much more studying is required. The proffessors are amazing! They really enjoy the subject they are teaching and really do want you to succeed. The last but not least, as a student you must MUST go to a Jayhawk basketball game in Allen Fieldhouse, it is magical! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

Do not just mess around your freshmen year because it is hard to make up for poor grades. Also, make sure if you want to graduate in four years that you take at least 15 hours per semester. Also, go out and have fun but balance school with leisure. It is good not to get burnt out but it is not good to totally neglect your studies. Most of all, enjoy those four or so years because they fly by and dont waste a single moment! Do not be afraid to put yourself out there to make friends, everybody is in the same boat and the friendships you make will be worth it! Have fun!

Take advice from people like you. Greek organziations fit a variety of different people and give you a fantastic social and employment network.

Find somewhere that you fit in.

They should tour as many campuses as possible and find the one that fits him or her completely.

Go where you want to go but make sure you feel comfortable on the campus. I would definitely recommend visiting campuses before you apply.

Have good communication skills and be open for fun things like going to the movies or just taking a walk around the town.

I would advise students and parents to make trips to see each potential school. I moved from Minnesota to Massachusetts right before my senior year in High School, so instead of college searching, we were house searching. I never got to experience college tours or the atmosphere while school was in session. I strongly encourage students to do so, because the campus is what makes or breaks your college experience. Some places you will fall in love with, and others will make you uncomfortable, and taking that trip is the best way to find that out.

I would find a college that best suits you academically. Reseach the majors and look through course catalogs. Then I would talk to student leaders, as well as regular students, to find out what life is like on and around campus. Ask questions about student life and how each student juggles schoolwork with extra-curricular activities. Also I would ask about how much tradition means to the students. Usually a school rich in tradition would be the best place to go because you know what you are in for. Make sure you tour each college and see if the facilities are to your liking. You wouldn't want to be studying and working hard in a place that you didn't really feel comfortable. Also ask about the teachers and administration. Find out how well they work with students and if they really care. Some places have administration that don't really care about students and that would make any college experience unenjoyable. Find out about the living situation on and off campus, as well as types of transportation. Make sure you know your college experience will be the best ever.

Write down a list of everything you find important in looking at schools. Whatever you are passionate about write that down in ascending over of importance. Follow your heart (even if that sounds dumb). This is a choice that will effect the rest of your life so you need to do plunty of research of school visits before making a decision.

Visits are crucial. It's also good to look at colleges of different sizes to see what feels right. Once you're there, you have to be intentional about finding places to get involved. You have to devote time to developing friendships in addition to studying.