Observe the college experience. Visit a university and sit in on some classes. Observe the students who appear to be enjoying their education. Speak to students on campus and ask about their academic and social experiences.
Think about your interests. Do you love soccer? Tennis? Poetry? Choir? Do you enjoy parties and an active social life? Research colleges that have clubs and extracurricular activities dedicated to your talents and hobbies. Imagine what it would feel like to participate in the activities you love in a safe, supportive environment.
Decide what you want to be when you grow up. Most careers require some sort of college education. Research what type of salary you'll earn once you're working in your chosen profession. Think about what you can do with the money you'll earn. Will you have children? Travel? Live in a big house and drive a nice car? Understand that college will help these plans materialize into reality.
Look at the alternative. What will you do if you don't go to college? How will you earn money? Talk to people who decided not to go to college. Are they happy with their careers and earning potential? Research jobs you might obtain if you don't go to college. Compare the salary you'll earn with what you would have made had you gone to college.
Think about your family and community at large. Consider how you could benefit them by going to college. Would it make your parents proud? Are there things you could learn in college that might help your family and community thrive? Understand that college is an investment in their future, as well as yours.
Think about the freedom you would have. Going to college usually means getting away from home. Look forward to living like an adult and making your own decisions.