Preparing for college success can begin long before students even fill out an application form. Finding the "right fit" starts when they begin reviewing their options.

"The college search process is starting earlier," said Rachelle Hernandez, associate vice provost for enrollment management at the University of Minnesota. "High schools encourage sophomores to get started."

While many students arrive at their top choices by studying college websites, she said, an old-school shoe-leather campus tour is far superior to a virtual one. That applies to freshman enrollees and transfer students.

"We want students to pursue visits early on," Hernandez said. "That's how to get a fuller picture, a real sense and feel of campus. If they haven't visited, they may have assumptions that don't play out when they enroll."

Beth Lingren Clark, director of the U's orientation and first-year programs, said the university makes efforts to solidify its bond with students when they're admitted.

"Right away we want them to feel like, 'I belong here; I'm going to graduate from here,' " she said. "We have multiple programs built around retention."

Clark said that parental support can be a key piece to students' success, which can ultimately keep them at the school where they're enrolled. Many schools have programs directed at the parents.

"We attract high-achieving students, and some of them have never gotten a bad grade before," she said. "If they struggle, they may start to wonder, 'Do I belong here?'

"That's when parents who heard about resources at orientation can remind them to go to the writing center to get help with a paper, or access other academic support."

Other suggestions for all incoming students:

Make a connection. Find a group, club or activity on campus. Involved students are more satisfied students.

Seek help early. Colleges offer programs to help students academically, but don't wait until it's too late.

If stress is taking a toll, seek psychological support. Most colleges have increased the mental health resources available to students.

Kevyn Burger