Auburn University Top Questions

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

Benjamin

In all sincerity, the message would be simple: Stifle your stupidity and embrace the hard choices. Only fools coast in treacherous waters that can sink even the greatest of minds and the destined to succeed. You are neither. You are stuck in the limbo of mediocrity. On this island of the average and unremarkable, you stand alone amongst intense competition. It cannot be stressed enough how important each and every choice that you make contributes to future success. In accordance, the only attribute that matters is perseverance, which can only be developed and solidified by taking on harder and harder challenges. As counter intuitive as it may sound, the harder you are on yourself now, as a senior, and on after, the more gracious life will bless you in future endeavors. So, take on more challenges in your academic life and learn to struggle. In turn, you will learn to persevere. When you learn to persevere, you will acquire the key to success and happiness. In the end, life will always be a struggle, embrace it! Also, I will leave you with this final knowledge: Please take more Spanish classes because I'm dying here! -Your friend and future self.

Suzanne

Concentrate more on your education and less on your friends and social life, especially when making your college decision. Make sure you feel included at the college you choose. And in the last few months of your senior year don't slack off. Those will make a big difference. Take the ACT again. Every point counts, alot. Apply for more scholarships. Start out managaing your money well. This is a big financial undertaking and the first time real time you can't fall back on your parents to help you. College is alot of money so don't waste your time and money. Pay attention. Do all the "suggested" homework. It will help. And remember to plan just as much time for nap time and play time as you do studying. You will get burnt out if you try too much at one time. Balance is key.

Michelle

I would tell myself that I would change my mind about my future many, many times, but it would all work out. I would tell myself just to focus on the goals I have in life and what I want to achieve. The I would tell myself to be motivated and take risks and chances to get what I love. I would tell myself that my perfect job is out there somewhere, I just need to find the abstract ideas of what I want to do, then focus in as I learned more about the field. I would say to travel the world because life is fleeting and we never know when it is going to suddenly change. I would also say to be outgoing and not be afraid to make friends that will be there for life and that would help me throughout the entire transitional experience of college and eventually a professional carrer. I would say reading and taking time to recompose myself each day and to figure out who I am by learning about others. Finally, I would tell myself to let my family know that I love them and stop hiding behind a facade of emotionlessness.

Jaclyn

First I would tell myself to really put myself out there. The only way to find people like you is to look for them. It may be hard and scary but in the end it's worth it! Also, make sure to keep up with your studies, trying to cram at the end of the semester doesn't usually work out. When trying to figure out what you want to do for the rest of your life(picking a major) don't think of it that way, just find what you love to do and what makes you happy and go from there. You can always change your mind or go to back to school later, so don't sweat it or make it a bigger deal than it really is. When it comes to finances, spend wisely! School is very expensive, don't forget that, but if it's what you really want it will be worth it. Lastly, I would tell myself, have fun! Part of being in college is the experience so make it the best you can; and you will encounter a lot of obstacles along the way but have determination and you will get through.

Victoria

Going into college, I was thrilled to start learning information and attending classes that were directed towards my ideal future job. However, I think all college freshman underestimate the amount of work to be put in to each class. Although I did come out with a 3.5 GPA for my freshman year, there are still aspects I would of changed. I would of studied the information for each class on a more regulat basis, and not cram it all in on the day or two before the exam. I have found that if you break the information up, it is much easier to learn. Also, I would take each class as seriously as the next, because I have found that even English Composition can help later when I needed to write a paper for a Psych class. Although the way a freshman should approach school is important, I also beleive that it is important to get involved and meet new people. College is full of new people and organizations to get involved. If I would of gotten more involved earlier, I beleive I could of made more of an impact in the community and helped other students in areas.

Andrew

Honestly I wouldn't have anything to say, I have no regrets and I feel that I was very well prepared for the transition to college life.

Jonathan

First, I would tell myself to focus hard on my last year of high school schoolwork and to review previous years. Secondly, I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible and to conserve my own money. Then, I would tell myself to make sure to get the contact information of my friends and teachers. I made new friends, but new friends can't replace old friends. Finally, I would tell myself to evaluate himself. I would have him ask himself why he's going to college, is this a step on the road to your future, and are you willing to face any and every challenge this decision hits you with?

Shaista

There are several things I would warn myself about first is to rethink my decision of going to Canada for university the first year. Though that was an eye-opening experience I would love to skip that part. Second, is to move away from the senior year thought of moving away as far from home as possible. I love living 2 hours away from home because that way I get both the living far and living close to home experience. Next, is go to university knowing someone there because when there is someone you know around you it makes the transition so much better. Another advice would be to work as hard as possible in high school by taking more AP classes that way I could come into university with credit hours and save money and time, two crucial factors in today?s economy. A final advice I would have given is have an idea of what you want to do because that way you can explore the majors out there, but at the same time not have to spend several extra years in university.

Quatasha

If have the chance to go back in time and to talk to my past self about the challenges and experiences of college, I would tell my self two important things. One, Never lose sight of your goal. I have seen many people comein with their eyes set on the prize and then stray off and become too involved and not focus on studies or start hanging with the wrong people. The last thing I would say is don't limit yourself espcially in the scholarship search. I started out as a computer engineer and have changed twice. I now have decided that I want to change my major but cannot at the moment because of financial reaons. I cannot because all of my scholarships demand me stay in the engineering field.

William

Sometimes I wish I could go back and give some advice to the high school senior that is myself. The absolute most important advice I would give myself would be to practice and develop my sleep schedule. This is so important for one reason- to wake up early. I have squandered away so much time I could have been using to write papers or read to make up sleep. But the other vital reason to get sleep is to wake up for class. You or someone else is paying for your tuition. It is waster if you do sleep through class. There is no way you can expect to even pass a class if you do not goto class. Some other important advice I would give to myself is to tell myself to have fun. Even though college is based on academics and getting the knowledge to help prepare myself later in life, college is about trying new things and working on old ones. Just last week I started swing dancing lessons after a good friend told me about it. I also play Ultimate in my spare time. College is a land of opportunity; make use of it quickly!

Andrea

All through high school I was scared about the future, about my college career. I grew up in South America and I knew I wanted to come to college in the U.S. I always knew I was going to have to leave my life long friends behind, and form new friendships, and that scared me. I was always dreading the thought that when I came to college I would forget my old friendships. So if it were possible for me to go back in time to visit myself, I would tell myself that there is nothing to worry about; that I would find the most amazing group of friends anyone could ask for. It would be like you had known them for a lifetime and that I would not loose my old friends in the process. I would have to explain how modern technology and web cams make it seem like my South American friends are sitting in the room next to me. I would tell myself not to worry, College Life is Great!

Katherine

The first thing I would tell myself would be to never procrastinate. It's easy to say, "Ugh, I'm tired, I'll do that tomorrow," but it's hard to say, "Oh, there will be time to go to other parties. I'm not missing out on anything major." You have to choose between the two, and only the latter will give you success. I would also tell myself not to hesitate about making friends. I've been blessed with a microcosm of people who all know each other, but in some ways I wish I'd branched out more when I was a freshman. To my younger self, I would also suggest to be more organized. College life is rife with major decisions, deadlines, due dates, payments, and allotted time. It's possible to survive if you just pay attention to the bare minimum, but there is a clear difference between surviving versus surviving and winning. My last piece of advice would be to never give up, no matter how ridiculous all the red tape may seem. College is supposed to be about learning and growing, and if you've done that, you've succeeded.

Emily

I think that if I could go back and talk to myself in high school, I would tell myself this, "College is a learning experience, so don't think that anyone can give you all the secrets. Listen to everything you hear, but don't believe it all; learn for yourself and don't be afraid to change your habits along the way. It's also ok to change your major, even if you have been set on the same job for 18 years - things change. Know what morals you want to have before you get put into sticky situations, you're most vunerable at the times when you're unsure...and if you don't know what choice you want to make at the time, make the better of the two. It is better to know you can change your mind then to regret what you did." And finally, I would tell myself that it will be harder to make friends than expected, but in a few months, I will be having the time of your life with people you wouldn't trade for the world.

WC

Make good grades. Do not focus on campus life. Learn how to be by yourself. Do not go to school looking to make friends.

Kaysie

My advice would be to follow your heart. I absolutely love the University I am at right now but I am actually thinking of transferring to another school because I did not follow my own heart and pursue a sport that I am very talented in. I do not regret making the decision I did, but there are days when I wonder what it would have been like if I were at a different school. When I say "follow your heart" I mean what feels right to you. Some people may follow their "heart" a.k.a their boyfriend/girlfriend to a school where they are not happy. College only happens once and if your relationship is meant to be, it will last and survive long distances. Another word of advice would be to have no regrets. I will from this point on, try everything I desire so that I have no regrets of not participating in a team or club simply because I did not try out. The worst consequence that could ever come from trying out for a position is not acquiring the position. Your life does not change for the worse, so go for it!

Claire

Mostly to not be afraid to form healthy relationships with your professors, advisors, and get involved with positive forms of extracurricular activity. It's is incredibly easy to become wrapped up in a new world when you are no longer living under the supervision of your parents, so be sure to surround yourself with good company, who will have your best interest in mind. Plan ahead and truly remember that while college is one of the best times people will ever have, it is only a small amount of time in your life and is a tool in order for you to become successful in the professional world. Be sure to read the fine print with anything you become involved in, and don't be afraid to ask a question. People who work for your university want to help you more than you think.

Zenith

The biggest mistake I made was attending a four-year school instead of trying to save money and finish my freshmen and sophomore classes at a two-year school as I had started doing after I graduated. Another problem was that I realized too late that I wanted to major in zoology instead of english. Therefore, I wasted time and money as far as taking the appropriate classes. If I could go back to my senior year, I would, first of all, tell myself to stick to going to a community college, even after I move away from home. Then, I would tell myself to make sure that I take classes going toward a zoology major. That way, I would save time, money, and be a lot closer to finishing my college career than I am now.

Kristin

If I were able to go back in time and give myself advice I would have several things to tell myself. I would strongly emphasize the importance of being organized. Organization is the key to success in many cases. I would also emphasize that college can be fun, but there are certain responsibilities that you must keep up with in order to maintain the type of student you want to be. I would also tell myself that patience is the key to all friendships. You can not let small disagreements ruin lifelong friendships, as well as new friendships you will make throughout your college career. Finally, I would inform myself to get to know your professors. Your professors are there to help you and guide you. Your future can be brighter if you realize that asking for help is the first step to an important advantage you can have for your success!

Francesca

Hola senior Francesca. I know you're worried about your Honors English class, but let me give you some advice. Ms. Gonzales will (ironically) assign you a project, to write a letter to yourself that will be mailed to you five years to the day, from our high school graduation. My advice, do not hold back. Write me everything you want me to do. I promise you, I will try wholeheartedly to accomplish everything you ask of me (please nothing too ridiculous, we do have some maturity now). When she later adds that we can write our friends a letter, write all of our friends a letter. Let them know we don't want to lose them. I can't explain to you how difficult it's become transitioning from the commonalities we shared seeing each other everyday at school, to barely making eye contact during the obligatory "hey how's it going" conversation. Tell them, the next time I see them in the store, and they turn towards the captain crunch to avoid the awkward moment of recognition, that I meant it when I said it, and I genuinely want to know; "hey how's it going?"

Alaina

If I could go back in time I would inform myself that there is a career that can infuse my love for infants and physical therapy. I never knew there was something that could combine both loves. Once I learned about Early Intervention Occupational Therapy I became a 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} different student. S uddenly I had a huge goal to be working towards and my grades needed to match the expectations of any occupational theraphy program I would apply to. My gpa coming out of high school was good I just knew I could do better. My grades my first semester of college were the worst I have ever had. Luckily, over Christmas break my mother introduced me to her occupational therapist and my life has never been the same. Since then I have had a total transition for how I approach school, no more just skating by. I have since made the Dean's List twice and raised my overall gpa to a 3.45 (sadly, i'm still trying to counteract my slacking from my first semester). The main thing I would tell myself also is to no longer settle and to expect great things from myself.

Ryan

Assuming I could go back in time to myself in High School I would tell myself two things. The most important piece of advice I would give myself would be to learn as much as I could. The second piece of advice I would give myself is to make the most out of the time I have left. The reason I would tell myself to learn as much as I could is because once in college I have built on top of the things I had learned. Take advantage of all the education that is offered and challenge yourself to. Education is one thing none can take from you and it will only make transitioning into college that much easier. Also, advising myself to make the most out of high school because I am only able to be there once. The friends that I formulate in high school will help me throughout my life. The life skills that I learn from the friendships, activities, and experiences will make the transition into college life that much easier. I would tell anyone, not just myself, this advice. Making this transition, being such a big life change, is a great challenge for anyone.

Jonathan

Life in my country is a very hard thing to remember, i am orignally from Africa, getting a better education is very hard, i struggled to finish my high school. My parents were not rich enough to put but me through school, but due to determinations and hard work, i graduated and got my diploma. I will say to myself now that, with hard work and grate deermination i will achive my desire.

Shoresh

If I could go back and talk to myself I would say multiple things, but first I would talk to my parents. I feel if I would have been able to afford college, and my parents would have saved for my eduacation a lot of things would have went differently. I feel that college has taught me so much about life that, I would have never known and has prepared me for what real life is, but if I could say a couple of things it would be; Shoresh make sure that you go to a school that you can finacially afford. Second would b e to get involved and meet people, because networking is a major component of succeeding in college, study groups, and tutoring. Thirdly I would say to study as much as possible, even when you dont feel like studying study any way. Fourth I would say get to know your professors they are the people that hold your destiny and your grade, if you need help get it at the beginning. and last but not least make sure that you live everyday like there is no tomorrow, take in every experience in college and love it.

Sonya

I would tell myself to be prepared for the ups and downs that goes along with college and to never give. College will be extremely hard but you can do it. I would also tell myself that to go out and discover something new and not to let work interfer with school. I would tell myself to enjoy school because it only last 4 years and then you are off into the real world. You have no second chances to enjoy life as it is now.

Michelle

I would say that it is important to remember to be yourself. While you are moving from high school when you had a group of really close friends to college where you do not know as many people, it is easy to get caught up in everything new and lose sight of what is truly important to who you are. When I first got to Auburn, I was so worried about fitting in and making friends that I changed who I was to make others happy. After a while, I realized that I was not acting myself and I needed to think about my priorities. It is much better to have friends that love you for who you are than to have friends that will only love you if you act or dress like them. The advice I would give is to always remember who you are and what makes you happy, and that is the most important thing.

Tsega

If i go back in time to when i was a highschool senior, i know that i've already comple ted all SAT and/or ACT which i don't have to worry about anymore. i would advise myself to expand my knowledge and understanding about colleges and what i can do besides academics meaning extracarricurral activities. since i've come straight from a third world country, Ethiopia, i would try to assure myself that Auburn is a friedly place and that i wouldn't feel homesick or go through a huge culture shock. overall, i will tell myself that i've made a great choice in deciding to come to Auburn university in Alabama where i will get outstanding academics and extracaricurral activities as well.

Bianca

I would tell myself to focus but to ligthen up on myself and have some fun. I would also tell myself to take a minute and enjoy each second of being young, not having too many responsibilities, and to make good, life-long friends.

Tiffany

I'd go back and tell myself t o focus more on my schooling as opposed to working so much. I'd push myself harder in track and field so that I can get a scholarship for school and so I would have better scores on my Army Physical Fitness Test . I'd also allow myself to spend some time with my friends and applying for scholarships. The last thing I'd do is learn to manage my time better with my extra curricular activities so that I'd have time for everything and still have time to relax.

Kirstin

Be open to new things and don't be afraid to ask for help from older students, professors and advisors, because everyone just wants to see you succeed. Your first semester away from home is always the most difficult and many people get home sick, but staying at your college on weekends will help you adjust faster and make more friends. Every freshman comes to college not knowing anybody, so it's really easy to meet people when you get there. The people you meet in college will be your best friends for life. Also, going to class is important. Professors want you to do well but they will not treat you like children and they need to see you put in effort. Even though no one is there to make you go to class and study, it's important to put school first because there is always plenty of time to have fun and there is always something going on in a college town. And lastly, have fun because these 4 years will fly by!

Stewart

I would tell myself to work harder and focus more. The first semester of college is going to be a fun time, but do not let yourself get caught up in the social aspects of college. Study hard and stay focused because if you get behind it is hard to catch up in college.

Tiffany

I tell myself to cut back the hours at work and focus more on my studies,and to continue with Track and Field, and stay in shape, because it helps with the Army. It also helps to get schoalrships and then all the Financial stress would subside and I could focus more on my studies then working trying to find ways to pay bills and tuition. Another thing is that it's okay to hang out with friends every once in awhile as long as I get my work done first, it's a good break and it's nice to see and spend time with friends and make new ones as well. If I could, there are a lot of things I would change, the biggest would be how I prioritized my time. Then I'd get myself in the habit of training, studying, and working and being able to balance it all before college.

Candace

You're going to make a ton of new friends and that's okay. Life has to change at some point and you can't just keep living in the past. Put yourself out there and allow yourself to get to know new people. Get involved in different groups and organizations that interest you so that you can make friends who have the same interests as you. It's okay to not be a part of the party crowd. There's plenty of people in college who don't party, even though it seems like there's not. Study, study, study because grades will follow you and once they're on your transcript, that's it. Being away from home is a lot harder than you think it will be. It takes a lot of responsibility to live on your own and you will definitely miss home, so don't take advantage of the time that you're there.

Kari

I would advise myself to not spend all of my graduation money. Also I would advise myself to make study habits, and to learn how to study efficiently.

Brandi

Don't be scared. It's different from high school, but it is a great different. New worlds will be opened up to you that you could never imagine. You will meet some of the most amazing people and you will be friends for life. God is going to do great things thorough this time in your life. Do not fear.

Ameya

Don't worry too much about the small things. You have to stay focused on the big picture.

allyson

Go in with an open mind. When you get to school, realize what you are really here for. Do your first job first, because if you mess up in the beginning, its hard to bring it up.

Kimberly

Knowing what I know now about college life, I would tell my high school self, to place more emphasis on actually learning course material and not memorizing it. I would also encourage myself to become more organized.

James

Work out. Attain good study habits. Prepare for fun. Make a lot of friends. Make good choices. Study hard. Do things for yourself not for other people. Stay true. Remember where you came from.

Robert

Parents and students should always tour several college campuses and research thoroughly before deiciding on what college is best for them. It is a terrible mistake when students base their decision on where their friends are attending college, instead of what college best accomadates their personal needs. Each student should evaluate their own personal college and career goals before choosing which university where they will spend four or more years. I would advise students and parents to think rationally before just choosing any university.

SeonJin

college's fame is important factor to choose the school, but more important one is what you are going to study. the college where can support perfactly what you want to do would be perfect choice for you. in addition, before enter the school, keep in mind that university is last step to enter into society. you can hang out with friends, but do not forget to study.

Kylie

Some advice that i would give parents and students about finding the right college is do your reasearch and have a check list. Once you get accepted to all your schools, visit them all and decide where you would most likely fit in. Also most students graduation from high school dont know what they want to be yet, but when deciding a college you should know if you want a big school or a small school, what area it is in, and what they have to offer you.

Brent

The most important thing in choosing a college is to feel comfortable. Not every college is right for everybody and you must find the one where you can feel at home. If you are not comfortable then you will have a tough time making good grades and adjusting socially. Next, brainstorm the five or six things that are most important to you (ex.: major, size, price, sports, social life, etc.) and make sure that you look at colleges that have all of those characteristics. Lastly, do not under any circumstances follow friends and/or a boyfriend or girlfriend to school. You must find the place that is right for you. You will meet so many new people in college and make tons of new friends. War Eagle!

Ansley

When looking for colleges make sure you think big and don't limit your options early on. Go and visit campuses that you are interested in and talk to some of the students there. Think about what majors they have to offer, what campus involvement and student life is life and consider the location relative to home. After considering these factors, find out about the financial responsibilities and talk to an administrator if available. It is very helpful to have advice from the inside. Once you decide on your college, get ready for the experience of a lifetime! College is all about what you make of it. This is the best time of your life to make your own decisions and really learn a litte bit about who you are. Go out and get involved in clubs and groups around campus. This is not only a great way to meet new people, but it is also the best way to figure out where you fit in. Don't be hesitant to try out new things-it only gets harder to do the longer you wait! Most of all, have fun!

Dennis

I feel that choosing a college relatively close to home, within 6 hours, is the best choice. I have enjoyed joining a fraternity and the benefits and experiences that i have gained from it have really proved it as a worthwhile commitment. Remember that you will only go through college once so i recomend making the best of it and try to have the best time of your life. I spent plenty of time partying with friends this year but i also spent at least three nights a week at the library so regardless of what you may believe there is time for everything. I enjoyed living near campus this year and next year i am practically living on campus again and i recomend staying on campus in a University owned dorm/apartment for your freshman year. I recomend seeking out financial aid at your earliest conveniece because the earlier that you begin looking the easier you will be able to find and recieve it. And lastly keep your mind open to new things every day because you will be experiencing new thing nonstop and that is where the fun in college comes from.

Elizabeth

Take a campus tour when you are considering options and go for the one that feels perfect. When you get to college try everything you can and give yourself/your child room to grow. Look for financial aid in every form; apply for every scholarship you can-it will pay off! Study, make friends, and relax! The best four years of your life will pass by quickly, so take time to acknowledge how far you've come! Enjoy college!

Robert

Knowing what you are interested in would be a great place to begin your search for a college. For example, if you enjoy science and math, look at schools that have strong Engineering programs. This would ensure that you fit in at the school you choose. Something an advisor once told me was to apply to three different types of schools: your dream school, your reality school, and a back-up, just in case. The next step would be to apply, apply, apply for scholarships. Look everywhere- there are plenty of scholarships if you are willing to take the time to look for them, and every penny counts, especially if you are paying out-of-state. Parents, help your student with the application process and with the search for scholarships. Students, if you are going to a school where you don't know anyone, don't be afraid to talk with other students; most likely, they are going through the same thing you are. This is probably most important. Making new friends is an exciting process! These are the people you will have fun with for the next four years of your life, and don't forget- talk to professors!

Whitney

I can't tell you how to find the right college for you. It's kind of like trying to find who you are going to marry. Peopl can give you all kinds of advice, but in the end, you are the one who makes the decision, and sometimes you have to make some mistakes to get to the right choice. But there are several things you need to consider, like how well you work in large groups. If you don't like crowds or big lecture halls, don't go to a big school. You also need to look at how well-known the school is for the major you want. If that major is not well-established, prospective employers won't be impressed with your degree. And if you don't like football, keep in mind that the majority of large universities are obsessed with football, and you will be left out of a lot of extracurricular activities for a few months. When you get to school, keep an open mind, and be willing to step outside of your box. Whoever said high school was the best 4 years of your life, never went to college.

Claire

Make sure you look into multiple colleges and visit them. Look at all the extra-curricular things as well as the academic side. Once you find the right fit, get involved in as much as you can. Make friends and work hard but don't forget to have fun.

Erika

When choosing the right college, you should choose a place that you feel will allow you to develop as a person. For example, pick a college that is going to allow you to broaden your horizons and open up opportunities to try new things that you might not have been able to otherwise. Make sure it?s a place where you can spend the next four years of your life there. Visit different Universities. It is like making a major purchase, you want to shop around and compare different prices and styles before making the decision. Once in college, the best way to make the most of your experience is to get involved in something, whether it is clubs, student organizations, sports, etc. This will allow you to network and meet new people. Lastly, if you always keep in mind that you?re in college to get and education and prepare your self for the next stage in life, there is no doubt that you will not enjoy every minute of you college experience.

Anber

The advice i would give would be apply early. If you apply early you will get a possible garuntee spot because Auburn is very competative. When you apply early you get the best tickets to the footbal game, more money from financial aid, the ability to talk to your prefessors before school starts and they can give you hints on the materials you will need. Applying early has its benefits and you want the best for yourself and/or your child.