assistant: Choosing the right university programs to apply to can be a daunting task, but there are several things you can consider to help you make an informed decision:

1. Your academic and career goals: Consider the academic programs and majors offered by the universities you're interested in, and how they align with your academic and career goals. Look for universities that have strong programs in the fields you're interested in, and that offer opportunities for research, internships, and other experiential learning.

2. Location: Consider the location of the universities you're interested in. Do you prefer a rural, suburban, or urban setting? Would you prefer to attend a university close to home or in a different part of the country or world? Consider the cost of living, transportation, and other factors that may impact your experience.

3. Campus culture: Consider the campus culture and community of the universities you're interested in. Do they have a diverse student body? What kinds of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations are available? What is the social scene like? You can often get a sense of a university's culture by visiting campus, attending information sessions or events, or speaking with current students or alumni.

4. Resources and support: Look for universities that offer resources and support that align with your needs and interests. This could include academic support services, mental health and wellness resources, career services, and more.

To improve your chances of being accepted, you can take several steps:

1. Maintain a strong academic record: Focus on achieving good grades and taking challenging courses that demonstrate your academic ability and potential.

2. Get involved: Participate in extracurricular activities that showcase your skills and interests, and demonstrate your commitment and leadership potential.

3. Seek out opportunities for personal growth and development: This could include volunteering, internships, research opportunities, and more. These experiences can demonstrate your passion and dedication, and help you stand out from other applicants.

4. Make a strong application: Take the time to craft a strong application that showcases your strengths, interests, and potential. This could include a well-written personal statement, strong letters of recommendation, and a compelling resume or portfolio.

Remember, choosing the right university programs to apply to can take time and research, but it's important to make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and interests. Good luck with your application process!

assistant: You should send you applications to as many universities as possible, to increase the likelihood of getting accepted. 

You should get letters of recommendations from teachers, or former employers for part time jobs. The best thing you can do, other than getting high grades, is get community service or volunteer work at local charities.

prompter: ok but what if I'm a felon

assistant: If you have a criminal record, it's important to consider how it may affect your chances of being accepted to a university. However, there are still many options available to you. One of the most important things you can do is be honest about your past on your application. Many universities ask about criminal history, and lying could lead to more serious consequences down the line.

In addition to being honest, it may be helpful to look for universities with second chance programs. These programs are specifically designed for students with criminal records and may offer additional support and resources to help you succeed academically.

Another way to improve your chances of being accepted is by getting involved in community service or volunteer work. This can show admissions officers that you are committed to making positive changes in your life and can help offset any negative perceptions they may have about your criminal record.

assistant: Being a felon does not exclude you the possibility to participate in higher education. While colleges will find out your criminal history, this is only one factor of many that determines your admission status. Getting good grades, taking tough classes, and participation in extracurricular and charitable activities are some examples of things you can do to offset your record with the law.