This is for all those high school students looking at and applying to college. College can be crazy amazing, if you find the right school for you. As a senior in college, I am so jealous that you are just starting your college journey. I have some bits of advice for you as you are trying to find your place.
1. Do your own tour of the campus.
Do an official tour of the campus, but also explore on your own. Look in at a few classes. Check out the library. Talk to some students and get their take on the school. Try to really get the vibe of the school. That's how you'll know if you have found your new home.
2. Everything happens for a reason.
Apply to a bunch of schools. Don't count your chickens before they hatch. Wait until you get all of the responses back. If you don't get into your dream school that is OKAY. There is a reason you didn't get in, give your other options a chance. They are probably a better fit for you in the end.
3. Ask for advice.
Ask other people what they think of the schools. Talk about how you feel about each one. Really assess all of your options thoroughly. Pro and con lists are really helpful in decision making. However you best make your big decisions do it.
4. Check out all of your options.
There are a lot of different schools out there. Check as many as possible out. Don't narrow your options based on money either. Scholarships and loans exist for a reason. Keep an open mind and don't sell your self short. Apply to reach schools as well as safety schools.
5. Respect that you have a lot to learn.
You have a lot to learn. Every single person in this world will be learning throughout their lives. You are no different. Right now you are probably a high school upperclassmen and therefore the top of the social ladder. When you get to college you are bottom of the social ladder and you need to respect the upperclassmen. They are just a little older and wiser than you. Respect the people older than you and heed their advice.
6. Live a little.
Do your applications, do your homework and study hard-but don't forget to enjoy your senior year. Have fun. Go out with your friends. Enjoy having less homework while you can. Get excited for 4 challenging and amazing years.
