Austin Peay State University Top Questions

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

Justin

In my senior year I was attending a high school called Middle College at Austin Peay State University, where I attended normal high school classes, and took college courses all on the Austin Peay Campus. The advice I would give myself is to take more college courses related to my intended major, instead of taking mostly elective classes. I would also tell myself to more actively search for schoalarships, so that I could afford to move out of my parent's house and into a dorm sooner. I couldn't give myself any advice about making the transition, becasue I think that going to high school on the campus for two years, made it much easier to make the transition from high school to college.

Ashley

I would tell me self to go ahead and attend college after you graduate and not wait almost 11 years later before you decide to go to college. After being out of school and a certain routine, its hard to get back into it. I would tell my self you can do it. You better do it while your parents are paying for instead of doing what I'm doing now. Not only am I paying for it now but I also have to work full time, go to school at night and I have a family to take care of. Its better to go to college while your young.

Haivien

I would go back in time and tell myself to study harder in school and pick the career path that you want to and not my parents picking. I would also tell myself totry to make as much friends as possible in college.

Hayley

I was very prepared for college, thanks to sites like CampusDiscovery. I could search schools nationwide and I did. I applied to 25 schools and based on sports, size, programs, towns--all of it narrowed it down to where I am now and it is a perfect fit. I would have NEVER heard of my school if it wasn't for sites like this. One piece of advice I would give my high school self is to listen to the adults in your life. Not only with financial decisions, but they know you the best. My parents were right about what I would like, where I would excel and how to manage money. My goal is no debt, and their advice is invaluable. When you are 18 years old, you think you know everything--but trust me, you don't. The adults in your life only want what is best for you and for you to be happy--SO LISTEN!

Marina

If I could go back in time and talk to 18 year old Marina I would tell her to not stress the little things. As a freshman at Austin Peay I took human anatomy. I had just moved from Germany to America and had attended german school my entire life. While my english was good I remember feeling overwhelmed by all of the terminology that was being used in class. I worried that I would not do well in my classes. I had moved here not knowing anyone and longed for relationships that would cure my loneliness. I soon began making friends and could not beleive how friendly everyone was. The fact that I came from a different environment interested people and I soon realized that many other students had moved from afar as well to get their education at Austin Peay. My sophmore year I joined a womans fraternity. Now I am living with two of my sorority sisters who have become my best friends while I pursue my masters degree. While getting my degree frightens me I take comfort in knowing that a couple years ago I was afraid to get my bachelors and achieved that just fine.

Kara

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I would make myself study harder and not slack off. I would say when you get to college you will have to study much harder than you even had before. I would also tell myself to think that college is going to be hard so when I get there it won't be. I would also tell myself to save and use my money wisely.

Timothy

Talking to myself as a high school senior I would say, “Listen, I don’t have much time. I know you thought college was expensive and you were right but you don’t realize how expensive. The money you have saved up is only going to get you through the first semester. Take the ACT again you need one more point to qualify for the valedictorian scholarship. Apply to be a Resident Assistant and don’t give up the first time you don’t get the job, they like you but you need a GPA before they can hire you. Being an RA on campus will help you in more ways than one. You will be able to pay your way, but more importantly, become involved, learn about all the campus has to offer and meet a lot of people. The experiences you have with those people is what makes college so memorable. Take advantage of the time you have because the four years will be over before you know it. There will be some bumps in the road, and you make some mistakes, but you are smart and determined. Never give up and know everything will work out fine.

nicole

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to better prepare and develop better study habits. The college experience is nothing like high school. It challenges you in ways that you have never been challenged and allows you to grow as an adult. I would recommend every upcoming freshman to develop study habits and come into college with an open mind, and be ready to learn and engage in the college atmosphere.

Erica

Dear Erica, It’s me. I’m you – only older and, because of experience, much wiser. You are about to graduate from high school and I have some advice to pass your way before you make the transition from high school senior to college freshman. 1.Don’t be afraid to meet new people. Your college campus is much bigger than your department. If you stay tethered to one building, you will miss out on part of the college experience. 2.Your high school friends/boyfriend may or may not still be your friends in college, and that is ok. You all will change as individuals. Don’t stifle your personal growth holding on to people just because you promised to be BFF’s back in junior year homeroom or because you were high school sweethearts. Don’t be afraid to grow up and to do what’s best for you personally, professionally, and academically. 3.Life is not all work, but it’s not all play either. Seek BALANCE and don’t let your work or your play make you lose focus. Best of luck to you! Ms. Erica Boyd

Rickey

Dont take anymore class than you have to. Making the grades is the easy part, looking for scholarships are the hard part. Apply for scholarships as quickly as possible. Look for schools with your major. Other than that everything is good.

Shannon

Work first, play later. Freedom isn't to be abused. The more freedom you have, the more responsibility is required. In college classes, take notes. Make flashcards or cute little memorization acronyms if you need to. That may sound "kiddie", but it helps. People are probably going to tell you to party and indulge in the "college life", but seriously, get your work done first. You'll appreciate it so much more when you aren't cramming to get work done. Time management is probably one of the most valuable lessons to learn going into college. Learn to properly manage your time and I guarantee you, it'll reduce a lot of stress. Communication is important too, especially with your classmates and your professor too. A good relationship with your professor is good in the event that you begin to struggle in class so that you wont feel awkward when its time to seek help. I know Im making it sound like all work and no play right now, but if you do it right, you'll enjoy yourself in the midst of your success.

Kayla

I would tell myself not to slack off and attend all of my classes unless it can't be helped. And that not everyone is your friend so when it comes to homework or missed assignments some of the times you're on your own, so be sure to ask the professor what you missed so you can catch back up and not fall futher behind.

Candise

The biggest piece of advice that I would give my high school self would be to learn my studying technique. This was the hardes adjustment for me; learning how to study on a college level. also I would tell myself to take the time to enjoy campus/ colllege life and to be more involved in campus activities. I would also tell myself to explore classes that interest me instead of focusing only on those courses that wer required for my major so that I could have expanded my horzions more. I also would tell myself to take advantage of study abroad programs.

Lyddia

Having the knowledge of life in general that I do now I would tell myself so many things! First I would start by telling myself to APPLY FOR EVERY SCHOLARSHIP I COULD FIND! I didn't think it was that important in high school and therefore didn't apply for hardly anything. Looking for scholarships now, I find so many that I would have qualified for then, but don't qualify for now. I had to take out loans to pay for school when I probably could have gotten so many scholarships, had I just applied. Then I would tell myself to start volunteering at all kinds of places off campus near the school to get more involved. I just started doing that recently and it is so much fun! I wish I would have started sooner. I would as tell myself to look into a lot of clubs and organizations when I got into college. I'm doing that more now and it is such a great way to be active and get to know all kinds of different people. Most importantly, I would say to myself, "Enjoy the ride!"

Maria

Out of my college experience I got training and learned things I did not know before. One of the things I learned is the different styles of writing and which one newspapers use most. I also have a broader understanding of the usage of communications in the society of yesterday and today. It has been valuable to attend college because, even though I have yet to find a career with my major, It looks good on a resume. I also feel great when I am more educated.

Colleen

My college experience has been more fufilling than I could have ever dreamed. I love my degree and the classes are so much fun. I pretty much get straight "A"s and I love to attend any and all history courses. I am the first one in my family to go so far in college and I intend to earn dual master degrees. My experience at school has made me a better woman. I never thought I could come so far (from homeless to honors), and now I intend to go all the way. College has given me a new wonderful life, a second chance to excel past my peers and family, and has given me hope, a light at the end of a very dark tunnel.

Kaycee

My college experience allowed me to grow as an individual and find my place in the world. I discovered more about who I am and what I am meant to do in this lifetime. Not only was I able to grow individually, but I was also able to develop intellectually. I would not change anything about my personal college experience.

Margaret

I have learned many life lessons from college. College gives you the right to be independent. In college, you make your decisions. I have learned to live with someone that is not my family. I have learned how to manage free time and school time. I have learned knowledge about many subjects beyond what I ever thought I could learn. Going to college has forced me to grow up, to mature, to be independent. College has enhanced my life in ways that I can't even put into words. I wouldn't trade this experience for the world!

Renee'

i have learned that college is a huge difference from high school. The professors are no longer your second parents, they are there to help you but now everything is determined by you. I also learned that work is harder and more detailed than your regualr high school papers or work. It is valuable to attend because its getting me prepared for the real world and getting a better understanding on my goals in life and what accomplishments i am trying to obtain. College is also showing me how to get a good job, network with other people, and focus on my weakness and strong points in myself.

Hannah

I have motivation because of my experience at Austin Peay. My professors inspired me to try harder and to be stronger. One professor made me see the connection between real life and all the literature I read. Another showed me the pleasure of research. My favorite professor simply allowed me to break down under the stress one semester, and then she helped me get back up again. I have found friends in people that once scared me with due dates and grade calculations. They inspire me everyday to enjoy what I do and never quit, despite all the financial and academic stress that entails. I found a second home in my English department; I found myself in literature classes. I fully intend to continue with my education until I can be on the other side of the desk, encouraging students to learn. My experience at Austin Peay has made me believe that is an attainable goal, and it has made me want to work as hard as I can to get there and be a professor myself.

Sarah

I started college 17 months ago, I have 7 kids (4 of my own and 3 step), and I needed to get a career that would allow me to support them without having to work 3 jobs. I started with the intention of becoming a richer woman than when I began, and now I am in a state of mind that is so much different. You see I went in with tunnel vision, and my only view was to make more money, I mean isn't that the "American Dream," to have everything you want? I could only see the small light at the end of the tunnel, but now, one semester into my second year, I have a wider scope of my much brighter and richer future. Every day I go to school I feel like a richer and more rounded person than when the day began. So when choosing the winner of this scholarship, although I would be honored to accept, if you don't pick me I will have still achieved what I set out to achieve a richer future for me and my family. Thank you for your time, I do hope you will consider me.

eric

i got a lot out of my time in school .its been valubale to me becuse i am bettering my self and my family by taking classes

Lindsey

I have learned a lot about my biggest passion, music. Also, I LOVE being in Sigma Alpha Iota, and playing intermural softball. I have made several friends for life!!

Joseph

Learning a lot and meeting great friends!

Courtney

I have learned many lessons from college in just the past seven months i have been attending Austin Peay. I have learned that you will not get by if you just do a half way job with your school work. To get great grades you will have to put the time into your assignments and not just precrastinate. You will also learn there will be hard times and by keeping your friends close to you they will help you get through everything. That is something i learned this month i have been going through so much with my family that i am now having to pay for college and take out loans which is going to be something in the long run i might regret having to do but it will also get me places by paying for my education. I believe college is a great experience for everyone! College is Valuable to attend because it teaches you so many life lessons and gives you great responsibilty and helps you grow to a responsible adult, not only will you be at a higher level of education but you will get a higher paying job and hopelly a dream job.

Lynn

Besides preparing me for a career change, attending college has allowed me to meet a variety of people seeking different careers. It has enabled me to do some networking with other students and professors to find volunteer opportunities and obtain advice on applying for graduate schools. There are also many clubs and activities at school providing new ways to meet people and get involved in school and the community. I am a student tutor at the college I attend and I enjoy helping other students to succeed. Sometimes I gain a better understanding of the material seeing it through someone else's eyes. As a returning college student, I know the value a good education can provide in preparing me for a rewarding career.

Tiana

Currently I am attending Austin Peay University. This experience has been wonderful as well as frustrating. I had some difficulties picking the college I wanted to attend, deciding on a major and getting the help I needed to obtain scholarships for my education. Since I have been attending APSU, I have become more confident in my ability to make my college experience enjoyable as well as beneficial to my future. I have always known that I wanted to attend college as a young girl, but with the help of my counselors, I have come to realize that this dream could actually be attained. During my early years of education, I had some trouble with my reading and writing skills; because of this I was afraid that I would not get into a program that would enhance the skills I have and help me advance in the areas I was struggling in. Austin Peay placed me on a conditional entrance into the college based on my GPA and offered me the extra help I needed to become an excellent student. I am now on the second half of my first year and an excited about what the future holds.

Danielle

I have gotten many things out of my college experience. Ihave learned that college is very different than high school. I have learned not to procrasinate on many things. I have also learned that because college is harder than high school, you have to study harder. The main thing that I have taken out of my college experience that I am on my own. There are not any parents around to tell you to wake up and go to class or to do your homework. Your professors are not as hard and motivated as your high school teachers are to help you. They see you as adults and you have to be responsible for yourself. Attending college is valuable because it is my future. I want to be successful and attending college is a way to do so. With college, I will have the stepping stone to continue on with my life and my career.

Kayce

As a high school senior, I was hit with a load of responsibilities just as all high school seniors are. In the blink of an eye decisions were finally in my hands when it came to my future- and of course this decision making came as a stressful task. Everwhere I turned I was constantly being told about college and my future and having to decide what I want to do or who I wanted to be when "I grew up." When the transition did come I was prepared for everything but the amount of free time and the do-what-I-want-when-I-want attitude that would come with my freedom. If I could go back in time, knowing what I know now, I would tell myself how important it is to stay disciplined from the get-go, because staying a disciplined student would greatly impact my future both short term and long term.

Brittany

If I could talk to myself in highschool I would tell myself so much. I would tell myself to study hard and never give up. I would tell me to always keep my eye on the goal. I would tell myself college is diffrent. There are diffrent people, and diffrent beliefs. I would chose the best college that fits me. I would tell myself to apply for scholarships until that was all I dreamed about. Live on campus, get involved its easier when you just jump in. Finally always be prepared college is fully of suprises. Don't be scared "carpe diem" sieze the day

Kayla

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the only main thing I would tell myself is to focus on how to study the best in high school, because studying is really important in college. And unlike high school, you can not just cram 2 hours before the test and make a 100 in college. It takes a lot of dedication and time to sit down and actually learn the material instead of just memorizing it before an exam.

Justin

I would tell myself to have a stronger start and to keep up thoughout the entire semester, rather than trying to catch up at the end. I would have told myself that even though my grades weren't perfect in high school, that if I worked hard enough, then my effort would show excellence at the college level.

Debbie

If I were able to go back in time to my senior year, I would remind myself that graduating from high school does not mean I am done with school. I was always an excellent student and was motivated to do well but I had this mindset of graduation day being the end of reading, studying, and doing homework. I was trying to prepare myself for college but had no idea about how difficult being a college student was going to be. Now as a second semester sophomore I am more familiar with how college classes are organized and how important going to class is. With the knowledge acquired from a year and a half of college I would tell my past self to prepare myself mentally, emotionally, and even physically for the hardships and challenges of college. I definitely would remind myself that high school graduation is not the end of the road, just the beginning of adulthood.

Joshua

If I could go back in time to give myself advice, I say I shouldn't be as nervous as I was. It's not as crazy as you imagine. Get good shoes, because you will be walking most of the day. You should make sure you spend your money on your books that you need before you spend it on other "wants". Make sure you call your mom everyday. She may not show it now, but she cares more about you than you could ever imagine. Either get evening classes or make sure that you go to bed early enough to be able to make it to your classes on time. You should not take any math classes online. The last thing I would say to myself is not to be nervous about asking out that girl that you think about so much, because you'd be surprised and glad when you find out how it turns out.

Deanna

If I could go back to my senior year and tell myself how to make my college transition much easier, I would tell myself to take it seriously. College is so much different than high school. I would tell myself to study daily and keep up with and stay ahead of in all my classes. I would also tell myself that it is important to make many new friends in college. Making new friends in the first couple of months of school is the most important thing to do. With friends you have a support system to help yourslef stay focused. I believe that these two key aspects would have helped me make an easy transition into college.

Kaitlyn

One of the most important things I would tell myself is to apply for more scholarships. Everything is just so expensive. I do not remember anyone telling me how expensive books alone would be. Money is the most essential thing for college. I would also tell myself to study even harder when I arrived at Austin Peay. I never realized how much studying I really needed to do. I would tell myself that everything else can wait, get school work finished first. I also would tell myself to look at all my options and apply to more than one school. I love Austin Peay, but I wish that I had looked at other possible colleges, and what they had to offer for my major.

Lukina

Knowing what I know now about college would have helped me a lot before I started. If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to relax a little. College does not stress you out. Don't cram for test all night; it will not work in college. Most of all I would tell myself to study more. Every class in college requires studying. Even if the class is easy, always review notes. Reviewing will help you push that B into an A.

Elisabeth

Dear Elisabeth (age 17, senior in high school), I know you are excited about your senior year of high school. You plan on taking one challenging class so you can spend your days with friends and stay at home as little as possible. Your year looks like tons of fun; however, it doesn't help you prepare for your freshamn year of college. I have several pieces of advice for you. First of all, you need to take at least one more challenging class so you won't feel completely stressed and overwhelmed your first semster. Also, I know you want to spend time with your friends, but you shouldn't neglect your family. When you start school (and your friends move to opposite ends of the country) your family will be the people you turn to for help. You need to keep your relationship with them strong. Spend some extra time with your mom after school or offer to take your dad out to lunch. I guarantee they would like it. I know these things sound small and unimportant but believe me, they will make all the difference in the long run. Sincerely, Elisabeth (age 18)

rebecca

the best piece of advicce that i would give myself is to take the time to do things. high school is pretty easy, but college is no joke, it takes alot more time and effort than it did a year ago. the classes are harder, and the tests are more difficult. the freedom that comes with college also comes with alot more responsibility. more things to keep up with, harder subjects to study, and learning how to do all of that is hard. just take the time to gather things in your head, focus, and make a plan to get it all done in time. get the hard things done first maybe, or you could fly through the easy ones to leave more time for the more difficult things. whatever path you choose, make sure you have a plan to do it. dont procrastinate on anything, because that will cause your downfall and stress you out beyond belief.

Joy

Well for starters i would not have made my self an easy schedule for my senior year just because once in college you have to get back into that study regimen. I would have also made my self stay on top of everything and not have slacked so much because in college they dont give slack for anything at all when it is due its due. I mean in college you have more freedom but you also have a much bigger workload so i would have made myself be more discplined so that way the trasnsiton would not have been so much of a shock you know.

TiAndra

If I could go back in time and speak to myself as an high school senior, I would tell myself to rely on myself more than that of the teacher. I would also have told myself to become more disciplined because in college it would be up to me to earn my grades and meet my assignments. Also, I would have prepared myself for the independency that I am facing in college.

Katelyn

Well if I were to go back in time, I would tell my self to fill out more scholarship applications. Every bit of money helps. I live in Michigan and I am considered an out of state student and I know now that I need as much help as I can get. I was a bit of a worry wart when I was in high school and I know now that high school is a whole new experience. I was always worried about my grades but I have a 4.0 gpa in college so far and I am so happy. I think that high school sometimes stinks but I would tell myself to wait and things get much better. Scholarships are a great thing and should be taken seriously. Eventually they will pay off in the end. Thank you so much for your time.

Brandy

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior I would make sure that I was truly aware that college was not just going to be fun and games. College was going to challenge me to not only do my very best in all of my classes but become more independent. I would also tell myself that college was going to show me who my true friends are. The friends you leave back at home when you go to college will either stop talking to you or will continue to be your best friend. If they stop talking to you do not stress or get frustrated because when you become involved on campus you will find your true friends?the ones that will last for a lifetime. I would also tell myself to get ready, get pumped, and get excited because college is going to be the most challenging and exciting times of your life.

Amaryllis

I would tell myself to practice better study habits and everything is not all fun in games in college. Also, I would make sure that I was prepared to write a paper and do all my homework doing the time that is allowed and stop procrastinating. There is time to party and then time to hit the books. Also there is nobody to wake you up and tell you to go to class, so you have to be willing to do things on your own.

Daniel

I would probably tell my self to become more social with others. Once i entered college I was the only one from my high school so it was hard making new friends. So I would tell myself if I ould go back in time to practice making new friends. Start the conversations when no body is talking. Also If you satw someone at lunchtime looking around trying to find a place to sit, ask them if they would like to sit with you. Thats the first step. Then just start talking then hopefully you would have made a new good friend and possibly study buddy. One other thing i would go back and tell myself wuld be to be smarter with my money. Just because you will get a refund check for your own pocket from whats lef from school does not mean you can go spend it on anything. Save it for the next semester and start paying off the loans with it also. So basically i would just tell myself to become more social and financially smarter.

Elysa

The first piece I would give myself is to pick the college I want without listening to the wishes of others. Go to college for you and set yourself on the career path YOU want. The second piece of advice I would share is to not worry about classes being too difficult. It the same learning as there was in high school. You have basic classes that everyone takes and you have major specific classes which are kind of like high school electives. You take the classes because you find them interesting, therefore you will not slack off or skip assignments because you will be enjoying the classes. The third piece of advice I would give is there are people at the school to help you. There are specific people to help with finances, schedules, and any other worries you may have. The people who work there are there to help you succeed.

Whitney

If I was to go back to my high school senior-self, the advice I would give myself is to not go crazy the first semester. Partying is fun but college is a place to learn. Parents are still a major part of your life but without them being there everyday it is easy to go out with friends, eat unhealthy, and stay up all night. Even though you are out on your own, you need to stick to a schedule. Sleep is always a must, at least seven hours is needed to function the next day. Also, don't skip breakfast, it helps you focus and concentrate in class.

Sheila

When we are in high school, we look to college as an escape from rules. We see it as a freedom which we have never experienced. Once we actually reach our goals, however, we learn that there is more to being a college student than we expected. There is more responsibility and we have to take care of ourselves or we will ultimately fail. This time in our lives is what shapes us; it is what determines our responses to future events. If I could go back in time, I don't think I would try to change anything I have done. I would assure myself that the future holds nothing that I can't handle and I would remind myself to keep an open heart, which is usually all we need to keep us going.

Megan

Working beyond your comfort zone is the only way to succeed. Making the grades has never been a problem for me, however I am inherently shy and it is harder for me to make friends than it is for other people. The key for success in college is striking a good balance between school, friends, family, and personal health. So when you first get to college, go for it! Try out the ballroom dancing club, go to the icecream social. If you don't push yourself to make friends, you may miss out on some of the best times of your life!

Sonia

Honestly, I have made some bad decisions regarding college and I would go back and warn myself not to do these things. My two biggest mistakes were: making my job at a fast food restaraunt a career instead of just a part time job, and trying to have a family before graduating from college. I would tell myself to not get into my job so much and just keep it as a part-time job to help pay for school. I would also tell myself that it is not a good idea to move out and start a serious relationship when i should be concentrating on school. I believe those are my two biggest mistakes.