Ashland University Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Maria

I would tell myself to allow myself to try new things. Just because it was not normal in high school, there is more out there than what you knew in high school. Take risks and become involved in things that you did not do in high school. Study abroad! Travel and push yourself outside of your comfort zone! It goes by too fast to say that you can do it later!

Kelsey

I would tell myself not to worry because everyone is in the same boat as you. I was very worried about what it would be like to live in a dorm, or how it would be making friends. The stress I had over these things was not even worth my time because everyone I met on move in day were in the same boat. Every incoming freshman had to make new friends and live in a dorm, so it was a lot easier than I thought to make friends. Just be yourself too, don't try to fit in with people who don't have your same morals. Be the leader, not the follower.

Carol

I think I would tell myself to believe in myself. I would tell myself I had what it takes to make it. Perservere and work hard and you can attain anything you want. Don't let doubt or fear get in the way of your dreams. Work smarter, not harder. Dont let anything or anyone stand in the way of your dreams.

cory

One thing that i would have told myeslf in high school is that i need to focus more on my education and start focusing on the career path that i am interested in taking. Another thing that i would have told myself while in high school would have been that i need to stop goofing off in class and focus more on my assignments that need to be completed and study for the tests and exams that are coming up in the future.

Amanda

If I could go back in time to when I was a senior in high school and give myself advice about college life and making the transition is that do not think college is stereotypical. I went to my senior year and the summer before college thinking that college would be like the movies; There would be parties every night, you would get a horrible roommate, people would be having sex all the time, and I would hate it there. With all these thoughts running through my head I was terrified to leave for school. I built college to be one big party, and I am not the parting type. The time came to leave and go to Ashland, the first couple of weeks, I kept to myself, went to class and came back to my room and shut my door. This got very lonely and boring. I finally started to get out and make friends. I wish I would have made friends earlier and not sheltered myself from everything because I was scared of all the stereotypes. None of these stereotypes were true; it took a couple of weeks but I love school now.

Morgan

Make sure to keep an open mind and visit a wide variety of schools. Big, small, liberal, conservative, in the city, secluded, ect.

Alexandra

Although I established strong academic and personal skills before starting my undergraduate education, I probably would have pushed myself to build stronger time management skills. As a full-time college student, the pressure and work-load expected from a private university such as Ashland, or any university for that matter, can be an unexpected shock to a first-time college student. If I had learned the time management skills that I know now in high school, I would have been even more prepared throughout my first year of undergraduate studies, taking less stress off of me and those around me. These time-management skills would have also helped me to live healthier by taking the stress out of my life, giving me more time for a proper sleep schedule, exercise, and a healthy diet. Of all the lessons one can learn before entering college, time management must be the most important.

Jessica

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about making the transition to college I would tell myself to get involved. When I first got to college, I was lonely. I missed my close-knit group of friends back home. I started to feel at home when I became involved in the religious life organizations at my school. Becoming involved in on campus organizations at school can greatly impact your college experience. It will help you find a group of people who have similar interests and values to you. These are the people you will be able to create lifelong friendships with. They will be able to hold you accountable to your schoolwork, help you make important decisions, and help you through difficult times in your life.Overall, I believe the most important college advice I could give to myself would be get involved in something that is important to you. It can make the transition to college significantly easier.

Tricia

If I could go back and talk to my high-school senior self, I would tell myself to consider my options very carefully. I didn't look around hard enough for a college. I only applied to Ashland University, and once I got accpeted, I never looked back. Now, a year later, I have completed one year of college, which is tremendous and fulfillling, but I am also transferring. I cannot guarantee that I would've changed my mind if I had looked around, but I just wish I would've given myself the chance. Another piece of advice that I would give myself is that, no matter what, chase your dreams. My ultimate dreams got put on the backburner for a while because I went for a career that has the possibility of being more lucrative, but something I've realized is that my dreams will always be there in the back of my mind. And I don't want it to be five years down the road and I'm regretting the choices that I've made. So I've learned to always go for my dreams because I will thank myself in the long run.

Clarissa

During my senior year I was very idealistic about college. I was recruited to play softball and I did not have to worry too much about how my college was going to be paid. I also had my parents to rely on to help with any additional expenses. My dad, in particular, did quite a bit to help me realize my dream of playing college sports. Little did I know I would suffer a career ending injury and return home. Without the financial help of the athletic scholarship I am now finding that paying for college is not as simple a possibility as it once was. The injury I sustained matured me in many respects. My priorities have changed so quickly and I realize how much I want a college education and the amount of work it will take to get it. I am determined and willing to do the work. I have gotten a part time job to help pay for expenses. My advice. Life is much more real than the insulated world of high school. Listen to the adults. Listen to your parents. Growing up does not have to be painful. I do not have all the answers.

Shelby

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college I would first of all tell myself to pick a college that makes me feel right at home. That is exactly how I feel at Ashland and I would not change my choice of college for anything. Second, I would tell myself to spend as much time with my family and friends as possible. Once I got to school, I missed all of them so much. I wish I would have done more with them during my last year in high school and during the summer. Finally, I would tell myself to not be afraid. I was so scared to leave the comfort of my home and my friends and family. I didn't know who my new friends were going to be and I wasn't even sure if I remembered how to make new friends! I was scared that I would get lost on campus and not understand my classes. As I got adjusted and used to campus life, I realized that I had be scared for no reason. So I would for sure tell my self not to be afraid and to stay strong.

Kara

Out of my college experience, I am learning how to be a better teacher, and I am meeting many great people. I am building new connections with teaching professors that will help me become what I need to be to be successful in the classroom. Ashland University has many kind, useful people that have been helping me through my financial struggles and any other issues. I am learning different teaching strategies that I would have never thought of before, and loving this campus more everyday!

Kristin

I would not trade my experience at Ashland University for anything. My time at Ashland has helped shaped me into the professional, intelligent, and career seeking person that I am today. I not only received a great education at Ashland, but I also acquired "real life" experience through internships/ student teaching/ and a number of volunteer opportunities. Throughout my four years I took part in a number of social "campus bonding" events and even though we were a very small school, you could feel the school pride run through our campus. Ashland's moto was "Accent on the Individual" and that is exactly what I felt like each and every day that I was on campus.. I have earned a great education, life long friends, and professional experience from AU. I have taken everything that I gained from AU and I apply it to my professional life each and every day. Without going to AU I would not have gained the extensive amount of knowledge of my field. AU opened my eyes to the many career options available to me and helped me to decide to further my academic career by attending Graduate School to persue my teaching licensure.

Amber

Everyone goes to college seeking a good education; one thinks of professors and exams. While my education is of great importance, it is not the only thing that I have gotten from my college experience. I have also gained new skills, a support system, and truly, a second home. I work as a student caller for the Admissions Office. Through this job, I have gained the skill of comfortably talking on the phone to someone I don't know. Independence is another skill I have gained. I do everything for myself at college - no one is going to do it for me. These are just two of many important skills I have learned that I will use for the rest of my life. In college, I have also gained a support system. In the organizations I am involved in, I know people in each one whom I can count on to help me out. My professors and advisor also provide assistance. I have made new friends, who are always there for me. These people are the reason why I consider college to be my second home. Together, these things are what have made my college experience so very valuable.

Lauren

My college experience has been a trying time, but also a time full of learning and expansion. This is the first time I haven't lived without parental supervision, so everything is done according to my morals and goals. I no longer depend on my parents to wake me up in the morning or give me day-to-day advice. This has made me a more independent and focused person. There is no one forcing me to go to class every day; I do everything under my own free will. As my first year is passing along, I am slowly molding myself into the person that I want to be when I graduate college. I am so thankful for the opportunity to attend a wonderful college that makes such an accent on the individual.

Lindsey

My college experience has been filled excitement and new discoveries. I feel that I have been able to learn things from a variety of different subjects which as an idividual has helped in me discover new and intresting things about myself. By going to college I feel that I have opened myself up to more possibilities for a better career in the future. College allowed me to find an inturnship which allowed me to gain work experience that I would have not been able to experience without it. Attending College is valuable because it allows me to further my knowledge in a subject that I love which opens up endless possibilities in getting a job doing what I love.

Jalessa

Based off of my first semester in college I've gotten a sence of responsibilty, and community. I've learned that you cant blame the world or others for your own mistakes. you have to learn how to take defeat and turn it into a success. As far as community goes, it is true that its not what you know its who you know. Ashland is a community full of networks that can get you where your going. The network will get you through the door but thats where one has to be responsible enough to know that their actions reflect themselves and also reflects those who recommended them. Ashland is valuable to attend because you learn more than just academics. There are life lessons and experiences that will serve as an aid no matter where life takes you.

Jake

Although I have only been in college for a year, my college experience has been quite valuable. I attend Ashland University and my major is Commercial Art. So far, I believe I have been taught some very useful techniques when it comes to drawing. My artistic abilities from high school have definitely evolved and now I draw much differently. I have learned various methods of drawing, detailing, and how to make my objects more realistic. I am on my way to becoming a better artist, and I am starting to pay much better attention to detail. The career field I want to get into is graphic design, but starting off with the essential art methods and trying to master them is going to serve me very well as a graphic designer. College has also given me the opportunity to meet peers in my field and be able to work successfully as a team with them. College has given me a lot of experience, and I plan to use this experience to the best of my ability in the future.

Frances

I have received a lot out of my college experience so far. Currently I'm learning that it's great to be involved. I recently jwent through sorority recruitment and joined Alpha Phi. Its here that I have made connections that I hope will last a life time. I also am involved with Adopt-a-Grandparent. This organization has provided me with the notion not to let life slip past you and to not forget those around you. Its been very valuable to attend because I'm receiving a valuable education. I know by attending and pushing myself I will in the end have a career that I love and have always wanted. If i didn't attend I wouldn't experience the experiences I have now. Including the small things like becoming independent and being responsible of myself. College teaches you not only the skills for your major but the little skills you will need later in life.

Wendy

When I enrolled at San Joaquin Valley College, I knew it was going to be a difficult jouney. So far, I've been there a total of 14 weeks and it seems that my choice to further my education was the best decision I've made for myself and my child. I still have 10 months left in my journey, but all I've gained to this point has been an experience I would never change or give up. Leaving my education on hold 10 years ago, by working and helping out my father, I always knew I was capable of so much more than settling for just a job where I knew was taking me nowhere. I knew going back to school and obtaining my Associates of Science in Computer Support Administration, would be more gratifying than sitting behind a desk pushing paper for the rest of my life. I know I have alot to learn still and the learning will not end as long as we use computers, but I can't wait to go out there and show the world what I have gained.

Jerika

I have came to an understanding that if you don't suceed in the goals you have set for yourself then you must not be trying hard enough. Being a student at Ashland University has introduced me to a overwhelming world of networking and compassion. I have learned and still am learning that at Ashland University if any student from any backgroud is determined to complete their goals at hand and is willing to create a solid networking foundation, for them the sky is the limit. A leader is never born, he/she is made and Ashland is teaching me this day by day. The goal for an Ashland University student is to not only graduate in a timely fashion but to be prepared and ready for the day after graduation and days to come after.

Jamie

The most valuable thing I have gotten from my college experience is freedom. Freedom to make choices, make mistakes, learn and grow. I commuted for the first two years of college and that got me nothing. I had to leave home. I had to live in a dorm and make life choices on my own. The only way to become who you were meant to be is to leave the nest, go to college, join an organization to develop your resume and leadership skills, make a ton of mistakes, fail a class and learn from it all. The greatest freedom of all is knowledge. Going to college gives you the knowledge to get into the career of your dreams so you can learn more and make more. Had I not attended college I wouldn’t have had the opportunities, internships, and sisters that have already made me a better person, and will continue to help me grow and become me. Going to college got me out of a small rural town where had I not left the most I would ever make of my life would be to get married & have babies. College gave me the chance to be more.

Breana

Congratulations, Bre! I know you thought that high school would never be over, but you finally did it! You should be excited but not too excited because you still have to carefully decide on a college that will be right for you. I strongly suggest not choosing the very first school you visit just because the campus is pretty. Apply to many schools and really envision yourself living there for four years. Make sure you can have fun, but gain a valuable education at the same time. And don't forget to wait for the financial aid award letters before making the decision because you could get a full ride! Don't miss out on anything and pay attention to detail because this is one of the most important decisions of your life. It is vitally important not to procrastinate anymore. You will learn a lot about youself these next few years, so enjoy your time in college. Oh yea, one more thing; there IS homework in college, and you do NOT know everything. Again, congratulations and goodluck!

Krista

College is a time where students gain an abundance of independence. It is a time where family members are not going to make sure the homework is done, and each morning you are on time for classes. College is a time where students become more responsible, and have to make their own decisions. Students are faced with many more decisions in college, and students have to draw a line where there is a time to study and time to have fun. When making the transition from high school to college, it is totally all right to be nervous. Another aspect that helped make my transition to college easier was meeting my roommate during the summer before I attended college. This made the transition easier because I already had a friend on campus, and we consult each other if we have a problem. Another way to make new friends on campus is to leave the dorm room door open. By leaving the door open, people will stop in and say hi or even stay a while and just talk. Explore organizations that interest you, and do not be afraid to step out of the comfort zone.

Jaimie

HEY DUMBASS! stop trying to pursue a feild that you think "sounds cool" you're just going to quit for a full time job anyway. In 4 years you're going to realize you love helping people and have a soft spot for third world countries. Go! INTO! NURSING!!!! You're just going to hear about Doctors Without Borders, fall in love with what they do and end up broke and trying to go back to school so start now!!!! Make it easier on the future you aka me.

Crystal

As a freshman in college, the balance between study time and free time seems to be a pressing matter. I wish I would have known the secret of balancing these contrasting features before starting my first semester. Actually, I wish I would have known there would be an issue. Throughout high school, the line was clear between homework and relaxation. The majority of my homework was finished at school and my worries and cares were left in the classroom. However at college the classroom is just a ten minute walk and the work is endless. I think the secret to this precious balance is a sturdy schedule and scattered free time throughout the day to limit stress and pressure.

Ricardo

If I went back and talked to myself, I would tell me to stick it out. Life is not always easy. Just because challenges are thown my way, I can beat them. It has taken almost 20 years, but I have two associates and am currently working on my Bachlers in Nursing, with the ultimate goal af obtaining a Masters. It would have been simpler when I was younger and not have the responsibilities I have now. I do not regret my current life, but it could have been easier if I would have JUST STUCK IT OUT.

Katy

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself when I was a high school senior I would tell myself to think only of what I wanted. Knowing what I know now I feel that only you yourself can make it work, you can't make your decision based off the idea that you know you have others that will be there with you. Unfortunately I had made that mistake when I gave up my number one choice for my boyfriend. I thought that I could make it through another school just because him and I were together, but I should have thought of myself and if I could first do it alone and if that would be true then all the support would just be an added bonus.

Joey

I would tell myself to get involved in as much as possible. I would want to experience everything possible while in school and not pass up opportunities to grow as an individual. I would say that schoolwork is the most important aspect of college and to give everything i've got in regards to my schoolwork. I would mostly want to tell myself to never doubt, never questions, and never pass up any great chances that come my way.

Amy

Visit a lot of colleges/universities. Look at schools you weren't originally considering--be open to possiblities (state vs. private, D3 vs. D1, in-state vs. out-of-state...). Don't let cost deter you from applying... but definitely consider it when you are choosing which school to actually attend. Also, be sure to consider near every aspect of the college experience prior to making a decision; such as student activites, study abroad, campus housing policies or residence life, greek affairs, is it a dry campus (?), religious affiliation (if any), campus dining, academic affairs (obviously), size (number of undergrad students or students residing on campus), local activities/jobs/places to go/things to do... you may not think this matters, they will significantly alter your college experience later on.

Robert

Just find a place that matches your personality. I find it much easier to be around people that have similar interests and personalities as my own. You just have to find that place that works for you! Also, get involved on campus by doing a sport, getting a job on campus (which can also provide some needed funds for necessities), playing intramurals, or joining some kind of club or organization that appeals to you. Don't just do things because they'll look good on a resume. Do them for you! Make sure to keep focused on your schoolwork or you will fall behind, making your college experience much more stressful and less enjoyable. Other than that just have fun, enjoy everything college has to offer, and get good experience for your future out in the working world!

Amanda

Incoming freshmen need to recognize where they plan to be within the next five or so years. Do they see themselves still in school? Or out in the workforce? Knowing how much education they plan on getting and what their chosen career path is will help narrow down college choices immensely. For example, as an aspiring teacher, I knew choosing a university that specialized in education would be ideal. In order to fully grasp the "college experience" one must recognize that staying on campus for the weekends is a must. The campus usually comes to life when classes are over for the week, allowing the student to become more easily submerged in the experience. It is during the times when a student is not worrying over classes and other obligations that he or she will have the chance to explore new areas and develop friendships.

Justin

Find a college that fits you, don't go for a girlfriend/boyfriend. Go where you think you would have the best time learning and having a little fun. All work and no play makes johnny a dull boy.

Derek

Make sure you choose a school that you will like that fits your child's needs to grow and expand as an adult. Make sure the school that they choose is for their major and not just to have fun and party. School is about growing as an individual and the child needs to feel like they will be able to grow as a person as well as recieve a high quality education from a high quality school. Its not necessarily the size of the school a student goes to but the quality that matters when choosing the right school.

Alaina

I would suggest looking based off of what feels right - the campus, the community. Also, look into the department and major you are interested in; not just the extra curriculars.

Michelle

Before selecting a college, it is extremely important to find where you fit in best. College is a huge investment in your time, effort and future, and it is not cheap. My best advice is to come up with a list of the most important characteristics of a potential college. After coming up with your ideal values (size, reputation, location, living arrangements, extra curriculars, etc.) find schools that best match these qualities. Campus visits are also important, as you can really get a feel of the vibe of the campus. Don't settle for what school you "should" go to. Your friends, parents, and boyfriend/girlfriend will really have an opinion of what you should do. Don't let this influence your decision too much, because you will be the one attending the school, not them. Do what will make you happy. This is probably the most imortant piece of advice I can give to anyone looking at college. Do what makes you feel good, get involved, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there. You only get one life, make it count.

Heather

The best advice I have to give parents or students about finding the right college and making the mos of the experience would be to follow your heart. The odds of finding a school that has everything you love and absolutely nothing you dislike are slim. Start looking early. Visit as many places as you want and ask a lot of questions! Things like housing and dining on campus are extremely important. Make the most of it and get involved. Greek life is a great way to do this. You meet tons of people and form a bond that will last a lifetime. Don't get caught up in the party scene. Keep your head on straight. Don't procrastinate. HAVE FUN!!!

Tiffany

I feel the parents and students should agree on their process of finding the right college that best fits the student. The student should make sure that they look at around and visit before even making a decision. Just by visiting it and looking at the campus helps the students get a feel for what they are looking for in their college experience. Students and parents also need to find out about how much the school is willing to offer you in scholarships and grants. Know how much you can afford and what you may need help on. Talk to the administration, let them help you to satify your needs as a parent and also as a student. A student wants to feel comfortable in the school they choose because that is where they will be most of their time, studying and learning their careers for the future. Students want to make sure that a college is right for them because that is what will make their college experience worth it in their end. Take the time to really figure out if that college is right for you and not anyone else.

Samantha

Finding the right college is much easier than people think. Try not to get too stressed over the decision-making process. The college you should be at is the one that feels like home when you're there. No matter where you go, there will be ups and downs, great people and merely okay people, excellent professors and ones with whom you do not get along. Remember that college is a learning experience, both in terms of academics and in terms of life lessons. You learn who you are and who you want to become when you are in college. To make the most of the experience, try to stay positive, and surround yourself with people who are happy, fun, and can make the most of anything.

Jessica

Visit your college before hand andspend a weekend or two there. You never really know how the school is until you stay for a lil while. Meet the teachers in your major study area and if they are not a professional in the community then look elsewhere. Make sure your surrounding environment matches your wishes because you will get depressed if you feel in a foregin land with no friends. Research scholarships far in advance, evven if its a small monetaryamount, remember it all adds up. The debt you will have after graduation is great so make sureyour career center is amazing, otherwiseyou'll be unemployed, angry, and in debt.

Molly

College is all about what you make of it. Regardless of the school, you have to dive in head first! Join something a club in college that you were in in high school, or try something you always wanted to do. College is all about finding out who you are and to do that successfully, you need to take chances and make mistakes. Some things you try you will love and continue all 4 years and others you will quit by spring, but the point is you got involved, and hopfully gained some knowledge and a friend. This is the easiest way to assimilate to college and the easiest way to make friends. College doesn't last forever, so make the most of it from day one!

Jeffery

I would tell incomming college students to visit as many schools as possible and to choose the school that you feel is the beset for you. Never base a college choice by where your friends or significant other is going. It is essential to chose a school that you feel you can see yourself being happy at for numerous years down the road. Partying, drinking, and social events will come and go. However, a great education will stay with you forever.

Angela

Find a college that you feel comfortable at when visiting, not nervous. Also look for one with strong programs in the area you are interested.

Brandon

Just make sure you feel comfortable at the school. If you're an athlete, go to a school where you would go even if you didn't do athletics there.

Joey

When selecting a college, don't rush your choice. Explore the campus, see what it has to offer, and the main objective is find a school that will give you the education and career oppurtunities you are striving for. When you get to college, get involved. Join clubs and groups to meet new people and socialize. The main thing is find what fits you and will make you happy so that the next four years of your life can be memorable. To build a foundation for your future you need something solid to start with and picking the school that is right for you is the first step.

Josh

visit the college and make sure that you will fit in with the surrounding. Sit in on a class and see if you like how the teacher teaches or lectures the class. Visit the dining service it is easy to see how people enteract in this area and how friendly people are or if most are rich little stuck up kids.

Tricia

I would tell them to look a little out of their comfort zone. I chose a small school because thats what I was used to. Althought I enjoy the small university I chose and have recieved research oppertunities I would not of recieved at a larger institution, small schools tend to lack school spirit and other social experiences I feel I missed out on. Also, sit in on a class, it really gives you a feel if you would be comfortable to learn there or not.

Sarah

you should visit the campus before making your decision. your gut will tell you whether or not it is right for you when you step foot on the soil/pavement.

Frank

Choose the school that fits you best and makes you feel the most comforatble. Be sure the school you choose also allows you to make improvements and set you up for your career and life.

Shane

Make sure it is a place that you feel you will fit into. It will become your home for the next four years, if you don't like something about then don't go there! You'll find where you belong, and once you do, you will know it! I believe the key to making the most out of your experience at school is taking one day at a time and enjoying the time you spend there. While it may seem like such a pain at times, I guarantee that all the homework and testing is worth it. Once you do begin school make sure to cherish it, it goes by so incredibly fast. You will wonder where it went, but you will have some amazing friends and memories that will last a life time.