Choosing the Perfect College

Unfortunately, those rumors you've heard about the "freshman 15" are often true. Many students when confronted with unlimited french fries, pizza, and soda make bad eating decisions and put on the pounds.

It's also true that when thousands of students from all over the world come together in small classrooms and residence halls, they share lots of germs. A college campus is much like a petri dish -- colds, flu, stomach bugs, strep throat, and STDs tend to spread across campuses quickly.

While you'll find germs and fattening foods on nearly every campus, you should ask some questions about the college's health and wellness facilities and programs:

• Do the dining halls always have healthy options? Are baked foods (rather than fried) and a salad bar always available? Are fresh fruits and vegetables standard offerings?
• What kinds of exercise facilities are there? Do non-athletes have easy access to exercise equipment, a track and a swimming pool? Does the campus have hiking trails?
• Is there a health center on campus where you can go for basic services such as immunizations and the treatment of common ailments?
• Does the college have a counseling center to support students struggling with anxiety, depression, or other psychological issues?
• Does the college have programs in place to teach students about responsible drinking and the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases?

Many of these issues may not be high on your list of priorities as you narrow down your college options. However, students who are healthy in mind and body are much more likely to succeed in college than those who aren't.