First off, i also think its important to visit the colleges/universities that you are interested in. When i applied to Baylor i had never even been there, turns out that the first time i went up there was for freshman orientation!
It is also a good idea to apply as soon as possible.
Something that i think is really important is making sure you are comfortable with your decision and know you will be okay. I applied to Baylor, my first choice, because i was pre-med and its probably one of the best schools in Texas for that. There was no way I would even think about going out-of-state. Well, after my first semester i quickly changed majors. Yeah, when i was a senior in college i was concerned about going to the right school for my major, but i was also into the whole "wow, baylor, thats an awesome school" and made that my number one reason, which was a really really bad idea. My parents were always telling me to go to UH and stay here in Houston, then if i didnt like it i could transfer. Of course, everyone in high school couldnt wait to move out. I was never like that, but i was just more caught up in the moment and influenced by friends to go "away" to college. I should have listened to my parents from the beginning because now I do attend UH. Sure UH isnt the most prestigious school around like Baylor is, but its right for me. I am a lot happier going to school there because the people are genuine and real, and the best part is that i get to live at home with my family.
What I am trying to say is that I was more caught up in going to a school with a good name, than going somewhere where i would be more comfortable which is way more important, im my opinion.
Hope this helped some!
Good luck sweetie!