Vanderbilt University Top Questions

If I could speak to myself as a high school senior I would only want to say one thing, " Stay excited". The most rewarding, thrilling moment of my entire high school career was when I opened up my undergraudate acceptance letter; I was shaking with pride and joy envisioning the friendships, opportunties, and knowledge that was in my future. Since thenI have tried to keep this passion with me everyday of college. As a part of our human nature, we are always chasing after 'what is next'. With this sometimes we forget and become dulled to the great joys in our lives. For me, I did not want to forget that pure happiness with my acceptance to college. Beginning my first year, I joined a mentorship program for high school female students. In this progarm college females are paired with highschool females to learn about female empowerment and the transition from high school to college. Now, four years later I am the president of this same organization and I could not feel happier with my choice to stay invovled with this mentorship program and be a role model to young women in my community.

If I could advise my high school self, I would definitely tell myself not to worry so much about the college application process. I was overly concerned with getting into a few specific schools, and based my happiness and worth on these acceptances. I did not end up getting accepted to my first choice school, and it was devastating. I would like to tell myself that one school or one acceptance does not define your value as a person, and that everything works out in the end. I ended up choosing to attend Vanderbilt University, and I can honestly say that I am at the best school for me. I thought I knew what was best for me then, but I was actually guided in a much better direction. I would also like to tell myself to be more comfortable in my own skin. I have always been shy, but college has given me a much greater sense of confidence that I wish I could have had all along. Greater self-assurance and self-esteem would have made my transition to college easier, since it is easy to doubt yourself in such a new and intimidating environment!

Don't be afraid to go out and meet other freshman.

Five words would have completely changed my college experience - welcome new experiences without fear. I never imagined that I would go to a school like Vanderbilt University. In fact, I had not considered applying there until my high school debate coach, an alumus of the school, encouraged me to apply. This was the first moment that Vanderbilt tested me - would I shy away from a seemingly daunting experience, or would I boldly confront my fears and step into the unknown? I first had to overcome my fears of being the only Black girl in class and of being the imperfect student before I could fully appreciate the rich history that makes Vanderbilt a remarkable institution. Little did I know that these meritless fears were unimportant once I found a supportive network of people who were just as eager I was to do well academically, while making time for relaxation. These fears were frivolous once I became part of an environment where I interacted with students willing to engage thoughtfully in conversations about society's most pressing issues. I learned to appreciate the power in the ability to welcome new experiences without fear as the difference between being average and legendary.

Do not focus on what you or what you think you lack compared to other students whether it is education, money, prestige, or talents. You were admitted for a reason because your school saw potential in you. Although it is important to know your weaknesses, do not focus on them. This will debilitate you if you only focus on what you lack. Do not focus on what other people would think when you make a mistake. Know your strengths and use them to your advantage. Show yourself and everyone what you are capable of. You may feel like you are the only one who feels the way you do but there are many other students who hide their insecurities behind their smiles just like you. College is difficult but you will enjoy yourself. Just keep your head up, be yourself, and do not be afraid to use your talents.

I would say to myself, "Sam, why are you hung up on attending an Ivy League college? Sure, the national reputation of the Ivies supercedes most other colleges and universities, but there are so many other amazing colleges out there. Think about your high school.... it's not as reputable as many of the other schools in the Atlanta area, but look what you were able to accomplish. You can do the same when you get to college, as long as you have the resources available to you and an environment in which you can grow and express who you are, and make friends. Sam, you need to talk less and listen more. Don't get so upset when people don't agree with your views - listen to where they are coming from and chances are they will give you equal respect when you state your side. Seriously, listen more.... talk less. And one final thing. Stick to your summer running schedule. If you do, you might be state champion in cross country - sure Cameron Thornton is tough to beat - but you have to at least give it a shot.

Always try your best, don't be lazy. You are so smart do not slack. Apply for as many scholarships as you can because college is expensive. You should work hard and achieve the best grades you can. Do not be afraid to speak up in class. You can achieve your highest aspirations you just have to work really hard. Whatever your dreams are you can do it with will power. Get into good organizing habits so you can keep track of all your notes and assignments. Study hard especially in math. Make alot of friends. Create memories you will never forget and please dont wear those silver heels to graduation.

I felt very prepared going to college. One thing though that surprised me was how I made friends. I expected that I would make friends with people in my classes, like I did in high school. However, that was not the case at all. All of my friends were made on my dorm hall. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior, I would tell myself to be extremely friendly, outgoing, and open right away with everyone on my hall. While I did manage to make friends with everyone on my hall eventually, it was hard becuase I was acting shy. I would make sure to tell myself to not be shy and attempt to make as many friends as possible, especially on my hall.

Go with your gut and don't be afraid to take a chance on unfamiliar things. It's okay to change your plans: no one will be upset with you if you do. While you know you won't be the smartest person here, you also aren't the dumbest: you're hardworking, determined, and stubborn (the good kind) and professors (as well as future employers) will take notice. Take time for yourself sometimes because hammering yourself into the ground makes things worse. Make time to unwind, relax, and if need be, go see someone at the PCC to help you cope with your anxiety problems.

My senior year of high school, I was faced with many difficulties, which at the time I thought were the end of the world. I fell into a slump that I could not get out of. Losing a family member and experiencing a tough break up not only consumed my mind at home but it also did at school as well. I missed a lot of school, let my grades slip and blew off my friends. While I did not stay in this funk for long, I still experienced damage, especially to my grades. Knowing what I know now I would tell myself that life goes on and whatever pain I am going through will only make me stronger in the long run. I would also tell myself to pull through the grief and make the best of my last year of high school, which I will never get back. I will never roam those halls or sit in those desks again so I need to go to class and excel like I know I can. I should not take my friends for granted, I will not see them everyday anymore. I would tell myself, greet the day and smile.

If I could go back in time, I would advise my high school senior self to figure out early in my college career what subject I would like to be my major. I could have easily double majored had I realized earlier my subjects of interest. Additionally, I would advise myself to think about the fact that after college you need to find a career path. Although picking a major you enjoy is important, it is also important to make a living after college to support yourself. While I thoroughly enjoyed my major and it did allow me to find my current job, I now need to go back to graduate school in order to have a successful career in the field. It is worth thinking, while in the beginning of college, if you would really like to go back for a graduate degree. I could have found a major that I would have enjoyed that would have also allowed me to get a job with just a bachelor's degree such as engineer or finance. In conclusion, find a subject you enjoy, but also consider the career possibilities.

I would tell myself not to be nervous. I would also tell myself to talk to someone who was already at the school i was going to so I would have a better idea of what I was getting myself into.

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that going straight into college would help me for the rest of my life in many ways and that the fun and free time would be much more enjoyable after college! The benefits of starting college immediately after high school would far outweigh any fun and free time that I think I need to prepare myself for more school! Not just the financial benefits of going straight into college, but the personal growth that being a college student brings is worth far more than time spent on fun and free time!

Dear Past Deb, Do not schedule morning classes. No matter what you may think, you will never make 8am Calculus and General Chemistry. You will think it is smart to cut your hair short and dye it purple, but really it will be the first mistake of your Freshman year, and that cute boy you will meet at a Mayfield party, will break your heart 2 years later. As a result, you will spend weeks sleeping in your best friend's room when she's in class, watching Jerry Springer, Maury, and Judge Joe Brown; while eating a lot of disgusting food combinations (ex. onion dip and hot cheetos). Regardless, the person you will become, is far more composed, accomplished and proud of the ridiculous banalities of freshman year. There's nothing I would do to change you, except maybe to tell you that your gut instinct is far more right than your overthinking rambles, and that Ashlee will become your best friend/one of the most influential people in your life; even though you thought she was ridiculously loud during your Doreways program. Head up young person, the world is yours for the taking. Sincerely, Future Deb

Going into college, I did not understand what it meant to be self-motivated. Throughout high school, my parents were behind me the entire time, pushing me when I became lazy or distracted. When I arrived at Vanderbilt, I did not know what to expect academically, and was subsequently exposed to the harsh reality of college academics. I had to learn on my own what it means to work hard and go above and beyond what is expected of me in the classroom in order to succeed. This is a lesson that I will never forget and has made me a much stronger person in every area of my life that needs that level of work and commitment.

If I was taught anything in high school it was how to succeed, to excel, to be the best, qualities that were no doubt exacerbated by my acceptance to Vanderbilt University, an self acknowledged prestigious university. As I arrived here I expected to shine and in all honesty I did, but I was unhappy for the first time. It is through college that I realized that academics and praise alone cannot create happiness. College is vital to one’s life experiences because it forces you to evaluate what you believe to be important, to humble yourself enough to admit that you aren’t always right, that you don’t know necessarily know best. We, as freshmen, walked through the gates of our respective colleges ready to tackle serious academia and whatever challenges the world saw fit to throw at us. And while we may not have succeeded academically, the college experience remains invaluable. College tests the very mettle of the student, their courage, and their ability to adapt, all traits needed to thrive in a career an in personal relationships. It is a trial by fire that, when attempted, will widen our narrow horizons and spark creativity and critical thought.

The biggest thing I have gotten out of my college experience is learning myself. I have learned my likes and dislikes. I have learned how to trust and handle different kinds of people. i have learned how to be myself inspite of the odds that may be stacked against me and the people that dislike me. I have learned how to be independent and handle the situations life throws at me with maturity and tact. Most importantly, I have learned that hardwork and dedication pays off. Being myself, taking care of business, and not letting anyone or anything deter me has made me the individual I am today and I would not change the college experience I have gained at Vanderbilt University for the world.

I have learned that college not only gives you an education, but also the qualities that many employers look for such as being able to speak in front of large crowds, work with groups of people, and be reliable when others are depending on you to do your part. Being graded for my attendance has made me understand the significance of always being there, and being on time. I know now, after attending college, that things aren't going to be handed to me and that I have to work to acheive things, such as good grades and high test scores.

Knowledge is more valuable to me than anything else. While there are those that have had it easy and have already graduated from college or a vocational school I in the other hand have not. If I had college experience it would be worth more than gold itself. I believe that when a person is taught something from someone, a part of that someone lives inside that person forever, and as long as everyone teaches your lessons to other people you will live on forever. Knowledge is more valuable than anything else which is why I would attend. Thank you for listening

Vanderbilt University has an aura that greatly simulates the demands and professional expectations of the working world in which ultimately I must operate. My college experience has afforded me the special opportunity to learn to interact with a diverse group of individuals; attend a world leading research facility; and study under highly qualifed and renowned faculty professors. The emphasis on academics and career preparation, while also addressing social and community awareness, allowed me to become a more well rounded student, individual, and responsible member of humankind. The value of my having attended Vanderbilt Univeristy is multi-fold. The networking streams are invaluable in terms of the potential to assist in my future career journey. In addition, I gained the benefit of substantial confidence in my ability to succeed through proper equations of faith, hard work, humility, endurance, and self-accountability in completing a task. The accurate measure of value relative to my Vanderbilt experience and degree completion has its quantification in my long-term ability to significantly and positively impact the social, natural, and human environment with the tools my education has granted me.

My college experience has been invaluable. I have learned more in two years of college than in four years of high school. Along with the academic benefits of attending Vanderbilt I have also made new friends and gotten involved in volunteering and a few clubs. Along with Vanderbilts top notch academic qualities, Vanderbilt also provides and encourages opportunities to experience other cultures. One such opportunity I have found valuable and enjoyable is the foreign film festival. Throughout the school year Vanderbilt hosts various foreign films followed by an open discussion of the film. I have found these to be both enjoyable and enlightening. When I go back to school in the fall I plan to speak with Vanderbilts career center in order to help me secure an internship. This is yet another valuable aspect of attending Vanderbilt. In short, Vanderbilt University is a great school that offers the highest quality academic courses, taught by a diverse, friendly, and knowledgeable staff. It also provides a wide variety of extracurricular activities that are both enjoyable and worthwile.

I've learned discipline, flexibility, and the importance of a college education for helping me to succeed in my other goals in life, such as finding a job that I like and that supports me.

The knowledge that I gain in college will undoubtedly help me in my future career and will give me a much higher chance of success.

The college experience is a learning process in several ways. There is the learning that takes place in the classroom, but so much happens outside of the classroom that is just as important. First and foremost, going to class is an amazing learning experience because I am around so many brilliant people. Intellectual curiosity is common and a communal desire to learn spurs my own studies. Beyond this, college is a time where you learn to be independent without quite having to be an adult just yet. During my college experience so far, I have learned many lifeskills simply from having to do everything on my own and having to make my own decisions. These lifeskills range from simple things like doing your own laundry to learning how to budget and watching how much I spend. Besides this, attending college has allowed me to pursue a variety of things that interest me, allowing me to further understand myself and define who I am. Though my college career is far from over, I have already learned so much simply by the virtue of having to live away from home. Attending college has been one of the best experiences of my life.

My college experience couldn't get any better. I not only had the opportunity to meet many different people, from many different countries and backgrounds, but also had the chance to get involved in many clubs and other activities on campus. Not only that but the atmosphere at my college is comfortable and friendly. It's as though you can be yourself and still be accepted by everyone, regardless of your race or looks. I've learned so much and I've only been going to college for a semester! I've definitely learned to balance my personal life, school life, and social life and have learned a lot about life already from my professors. These are only some of the reasons and ways that attending college has been valuable and as I begin another semster I look forward to learning and achieving so much more.

Academics, research, friendship, scholarship, connections, a more open mind, and a renewed thirst for knowledge. These are the things I have gained from my college experience thus far. I did not know what to think when I first left for college last August, and it has far exceeded my expectations. I have been tested in my classes harder than ever before. I have formed closer bonds of friendship than I thought possible. I have become a leader and joined organizations like Model United Nations and Vanderbilt Student Government that I never thought I would be a part of. I have obtained a research position in a stem cell lab and have learned vast amounts in a hands-on environment. I also joined a sorority and have taken part in a rich and vibrant social scene, while remaining a diligent student. I have developed relationships with my professors and learned more than I expected by putting in that little bit of extra effort. At Vanderbilt I have learned not only how to be a student, but how to be a student, a leader, a fan, a friend and a better person.

I would tell my self to be open minded in college selection. I would tell myself to apply to more than just three big schools, and to not only look at places close to home. Vanderbilt is a place I origionally never imagined that I would end up, but now I couldn't be happier. Transfering here from The University of Michigan was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Nashville, and most of the people here, are not similar to what I have previously experienced. Therefore, I would advise my self to push to go somewhere where I can be exposed to new types of experiences, communities, and people. Somewhere that would broaden my horizions and shape me as the indivual and professional I am becoming.

As a senior last spring, no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't slow down the inevitable arrival of May 1: decision day. Looking back after my first college semester, there are many things I wish I had known. First, I wish I?d realized that college rankings mean nothing. Prestigious private schools sound great, but a well-rounded education and college experience truly are more important than endowment. And to find the right fit, you MUST actually visit schools; don?t rely on the Internet or preconceived notions. Seeing campus size, typical classes, even gauging the weather and dorm life are all important factors (and great excuses to go road-tripping for a week!). Also, it was comforting to see one familiar face around in a brand-new environment. You will grow and change immeasurably in your college years, but some people you may regret letting go. So if you are where I was, stuck with a difficult decision, don?t fret too much. No matter where you go, college is what YOU make of it. Go with your gut. If you work hard, attend class, and make an effort to meet people, everything will work out fine.

If I could tell myself anything, it would be to be more socially ambitious. Everyone here is intelligent, well-accomplished, and hard-working, but not everyone is a social butterfly. I was always quiet and shy in high school, and I told myself I would be different in college since I was being given the chance to "remake" my personality, in a sense. The social scene here is great - there are tons of people to meet, parties to go to, and things to do in Nashville - but you can't enjoy any of them without making friends. I have broken my shell a little, but I did not put myself out there during the first few days. I still am shy when it comes to meeting new people, and I feel that if I had been more outgoing when I first arrived, I could have embedded the extrovertedness into my "new" personality. There is still time and plenty of opportunities for me to crack the social code, but I wish I had gotten more of a jump-start on things when I first arrived. So, to my high school self: Don't be shy!

If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I wouldn't know where to begin! First, I would ease his feelings of finality. College is not the end of life at home; you still talk to your family all the time and you can always go back home for breaks. Once he felt less apprehensive, I would urge him to stand up for himself, even against a professor. The faculty is very accommodating and they want to know what you really think of them and their programs. Besides, the most important thing is what is best for the students, not what is most convenient for the staff. Mostly, I would emphasize the fact that college is not only about academics. The best lessons college has to offer are those learned in social situations. Meet people, try something new, stay up too late playing a board game with friends, finish that philosophical conversation instead of your homework. It's okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. Those experiences are far more crucial than any assignment a professor could give you.

Hello Senior-Me! Some advice you will learn next year, but would help to know now: B.) DO NOT QUIT NOW. This "senioritis" nonsense is a crutch and you don't want to begin college limping. D.) Professors are not like teachers. (Thus two words for the same occupation.) They are brilliant and they want you to learn, but they run a tight ship. Spend this time getting organized to be ahead next year, and appreciate the teachers you have now. E.)Time management. You have heard this a thousand times, but maybe you will listen to someone from the future. C.) Go to your sisters' concerts. Seriously, you will miss them a ton, so build up those relationships now.... and stop rolling your eyes at me. F.) Attitude is key. Stop thinking that college classes are impossible - they are not. But don't think they are easy either. It will take hard work and long nights, but you can do it. There you have it. Do awesome(ly). PS. Remember that senior porfolio you are stressing about? The school board is going to abolish it next year, so have some fun with it and go out with a BANG!

Flexibility and perseverance are the essential ingredients to success and happiness and college. Explore all of your opportunities, and be open to pursuing new interests- socially, athletically, philanthropically, and most importantly, academically. College will allow you to expand your horizons in ways you have never conceived, so it is imperative to always keep an open mind, because you may find a new career path that will make you happier than anything you have ever done before. Always go to class- whether they take attendance or not, it is guaranteed that whatever you miss in class will be essential information, because this is college- the professors don't feed you unnecessary information. Don't let failure discourage you, but learn from it and continue trying- never give up. Most importantly, know that while you owe it to your family to succeed, this is your time to accomplish great things that you can be proud of, and do it for yourself. College goes by far too quickly, so get involved early, roll with the punches, be persistant, and do things to surprise yourself, because they will better you. Oh, and get as much sleep as possible.

Sports in colleges are for those students who play sports only. Struggling in academics and participating in High School sports with the hope of getting a sports scholarship in College is futile. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Unless you are a gifted athlete don't break your back trying to participate in high school sports. Take part so long as you enjoy it.

Relax. Work hard on your college applications. Don't worry about things that are out of your control; eventually, everything will work out. Savor the moment. You only go to high school once. College is a phenomenal experience, but so is high school. Make time to hang out with your friends; you will soon have much less time to spend with them. Once you go to college, make friends, study hard, and get involved outside of the classroom. Leave time for yourself, though, to detox from the day. Always remember why you're at school... what your goal is. Never accept anything less than that which will help you achieve your goal. Most of all, have fun!

Learn how to effectively time manage. I do not feel that the rigor of the work in college is that much more difficult than High School. However in college there are so many things to do at any given moment, therefore it is really important to learn in high school how to balance your academics, social life and other activities.

Katie, Remember that the college transition is going to be difficult, but it won't last forever. Yes, you are leaving your high school friends, but you will meet new people and your old friends will be forever in your heart. Follow your own dreams when picking a major, and don't decide based on what you think your parents want. Continue to believe in yourself even when things get difficult; just because you have to work harder now doesn't mean you aren't still smart. You will learn things here that will carry you through the rest of your life. Remember to slow down and enjoy life on campus because you shouldn't be in any rush to graduate. Yes, you want to finish early, but you have the rest of your life to get a job and only the next four years to fully experience the joys of learning. When the pressure gets to be too much, remember that you are the only one who can define what is right for you, and act accordingly. Fondly, Katie in college

Its not about which school has the highest rankings, its about the school that fits you best.

The main piece of advice I'd give them is to not look for the label on the school. Look for a faculty member or a building or something that truly inspires you to work, grow and be yourself. Harvard is great for some people, but there might be a little school that is perfect for someone and they'd get more attention. It's alright to be a bigger fish in a smaller pond.

Go visit the school and if you can stay with a current student. Every top school can offer you great academics but only one school will feel like home.

During the final months of my college selection process, I was overwhelmed with stress because I could not figure out which college was right for me. I still did not know what career field I wanted to pursue, and I felt like I was supposed to find a college or university that offered education for the most career possibilities. One day, my dad delivered some very sound advice which eased my tension tremendously. He reminded me that no school would necessarily give me more opportunities than any other. Just the fact that I was going to acquire a college education would open up hundreds of doors which would not be available to someone with just a high school degree. No matter which college I chose to attend, I would be making the right choice simply by deciding to go to college and further my education. He was right.

My number one piece of advice is to visit the schools. Rankings and reviews online are a great starting point, they alow you to compare schools and help to narrow your interests, but visiting the school help you to understand the school completely. Ask a lot of questions when visiting these schools, and most of all try to sit in a class that interests you. Just remember when you are accepted into a school, the college is now competing for YOU!

College is about finding yourself. If I were to give advice in hindsight, I would tell others to look for a college that allows the most flexibility and that is well-rounded. You are not going to have the same intrests going into college that you will have coming out of college. LIkewise, your interests and goals in will change from year to year. Therefore it's important to choose a school that allows for flexibility and experimentation throughout you academic career. Schools that are only good in one area (like a really big medical research school, or a school that only has a really good english program) may be attactive to you when you are applying if those strengths are specific to your interests. However if you go to a one-faceted school chances are that sooner or later you'll change your mind and find different interests and your school won't be able to accomodate this. In fact, the human mind changes until we're in our mid-20s; scientifically, you WILL change. Therefore, choose a well-rounded school and you're setting yourself up for a nourishing college experience.

The "college experience" means something different to everyone. The first step in choosing the right college is defining what you want out of the "college experience". Factors to consider may include, but are certainly not limited to the strength of academics, location, size, Greek life, and athletics. However, the final decision may defy logic. It will likely come down to the vibe the student feels when visiting the campus or that alumnus who cared more about answering the student's questions during the interview than asking their own. That's ok, though, because life isn't about the numbers or hard facts and neither is college. The education is only a small piece of the college experience. College is about finding yourself. It's about the journey that is growing up and becoming your own person. In order to make the most of the experience, you must be willing to open your eyes and fully immerse yourself in the world. This means studying until dawn, exploring religion, rooting for the team, stepping out of your comfort zone, celebrating and even doing your own laundry. These are four short years of your life; you don't want to miss a second.

Make sure the students choices for a college are broad because there is no guarantee that one will be accepted. Go on college visits to see if the student likes the environment. The student should decide if he/she likes certain attributes of a college such as whether or not it's going to be placed in a urban area or if the school is big or small. Don't worry so much about costs, financial aid will help make college affordable. Many colleges have programs that let high school students visit the college for a weekend to get a grasp of the college experience. It's always good to try to get involved in those. Decide what you want to do in life, what you want to major in and chose colleges based on that major. A student wants the best education available to fufill his or her dreams. College is very important, but remember, it's not all work and no play for four years.

I would advise prospective students to choose a college based on where they feel the most comfortable. I made a decision based on money, and I ended up transferring after two years to a school that was more expensive but was also where I felt more at home. While money is relevant, student loans are not the end of the world and your well-being is more important. To make the most out of your college experience, it is importnant to be willing to try new things and get involved. The freshman who signs up for 20 clubs and ends up commiting to three of them will be better off than the freshman who chooses to play Rock Band every evening. It is tempting to be lazy becasue of the new freedom, but it is necessary to continue to pursue your passions. Also, be sure to do things that are new, like attend a cultural event that you are unfamiliar with or join the greek system.

When visiting schools, talk to students who don't work for the admissions office in order to get an idea of what the school is really like. Read the books such as College Prowler that give you the students' perspectives, things that rankings can't tell you, like how much kids from different backgrounds interact, what the food's like, how much kids party, etc. These are very important aspects that will affect you that often get ignored during the college search process.

I would advise parents and/or students to not only look at the prestige of the particular school they want to attend but also what will best fit their learning needs and ability. Just because a school is a top 20 university and you did very well in high school, doesn't mean the school is necessarily right for you. You must go into what ever school you choose with the right mindset; you must be foucsed , driven, and let nothing distract you. Many freshman enter college with that high school senior year mentality or even high school mentality of how they used to do work and how they used to study, but you cant bring that to college. It's a whole different world. All I can say is make sure you use your time wisely. You may have the time to do extra things socially with friends, but make sure you have the right balance between your academic/work life and your social life. If not you could start off in the wrong direction, and although it is possible to come back from it, it is very hard. Take it from someone who knows.

Consider every aspect you can think of.

Pick the college that you feel the best about; don't let anyone else tell you where to go. DON'T pick a college based on their reputation; go somewhere that you feel comfortable.

You should look into every aspect you care: school reputation, financial aid package, location, city size, average class size, dining, housing, environment, etc.