Barry University Top Questions

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

Sheila

If I talked to myself in order to advise about college life and a transition that it would take, I would first encourage myself to think about all the possibilities available. Also, make sure I get involved with volunteer activities as much as possible, and also be compassionate with myself with the transition of countries, a different language, and a different culture. Moreover, I would advise patience , willingness, and persistence.

Venice

I would have attended college right after high school. It was very hard financially to care for a family while attending college. Time management was also an issue because of family obligations.

Moniqua

If I were able to go back and time, I would advise myself to research financial aid options and to make the best decision on whether or not going farther away from home is best. I have had a great Fall semester at Barry Univeristy. I am a very friendly, outgoing person, the only issue I have is that I still have a balance and it is the end of this semester. I have received the maximum amount of financial aid that I am able to have and I am unable to apply for a private loan because I do not have a cosigner, so I would definitely advise myself to apply for more scholarships and make sure financially secure. I would also advise myself to take the time to deliberate if going far is good. I would choose staying closer to home as it is much more convenient.

Yolette

Life in high school was more about peer acceptance and less focus on the academic component. The friends would spend time socializing, not paying attention to the teachers, thus neglecting the schoolwork. We were never ready for exam because we did not take time to study, but at the last moment. The advice that I would give to myself is not to wait at the last moment to complete school assignments and study for exam. There is a time to hang out with friends and there is a time for school work. I would give priority to my education rather than peers. When missing on basic components of certain subjects in high school like English or math, the student would have difficulty in college understanding such subject. The college instructors often reply "you should have known that from high school" . As a result, subjects that should have been easy in college now become difficult and the academic performance is affected. Now I invest more time and effort into my education. I feel more comfortable taking my exams and maintaining my GPA.

Cassandra

Pick a school major and stick to it. Because, I wasn't sure of what I wanted to do it caused me to switch many times which caused me to remain in school for a longer period of time. If you received a refund from the government, don't spend it frivolously but invest in CDs in a bank or a savings account that you can't touch because when you really need the money you will struggle to find it. I would definitely complete the 2+2 program which is when you complete 2years at a community college and 2years at a university. Community colleges offer the same education and sometimes the professors work at the local university and community college. I would definitely say if you are getting a car after high school to get a inexensive BRAND new car (honda, toyota, or nissan) because for at least 3yrs you will have a guarantee and the car will be in good condition without having to worry if it will get you to your clinical site. Do not fail classes because of friends and do all extra credit whether you are doing good in the class or not!

Isaura

I would tell myself that I need to take every oppportunity that comes my way to really experince everything that college life has to offer. Meaning, being more than just your average university student, I should get involve in different organizations, clubs and becoming an active participant in my university. Most important of all I would tell myself that I can make a difference in my future, my university and the world.

Ryan

I would not change one thing about my senior year of highschool. I worked hard in school and graduated from two National Honor Societies and was the captain of the wrestling team. At Don Bosco Prep I balanced my time between school work and extracaricular activies, and forged friendships that will last a life time.

Maria

A few problems i have encountered many times are, getin my books too late making me fall behind on homework. From that leading to bad sleeping habits. My advice from now to my myself as a highschool student would be to buy the books early to be on time and maybe even ahead for doing readings and homework. Another advice would be to never take a difficult class durring a summer term.

Ariel

I would encourage myself to think more carefully about my decision. If given the opportunity I would have went into more depth in attempting to choose the college that is best suited for me. As a senior one does not have the time that is needed to make such an important decision.

Mandy

The road to success will not be easy. There will be many obstacles alone the way that will push to the egde, but don't fall, off stand strong, and fight to the end. Remember hard work pays off. If everything was giving to you on a silver plater what sense of self pride would you gain from it if i you didnt work hard for it? no at all......... So be thankful for the tough teachers, the loads of work, and exams back to back it is only preparing you for the career of your choice.

Stacy

As seniors in high school, many students stay close to home to avoid financial problems and becoming homesick. If I could go back in time, I'd follow the footsteps of my classmates and go to a University closer to home. I'd also be sure to use my time wisely and apply for as many scholarships as possible to help my college education to be more affordable. I'd also give myself the advice to stay focused on school work, because college work is a lot harder and more serious than high school. I'd also be sure to attend counseling services for choosing the right major to make sure that I was really interested in my intended major. I'd be sure to warm myself that college is the most serious part of my life and once the opportunity is gone, it may not come back.

Stephania

I would tell the parents and the students to search for schools that has the students desire student -teacher ratio meaning if they prefer being in small classes, then they need to look for schools that have a small to medium size population. Secondly, they should go to on the campus tour of the school they are interesting in. By going on the tour they will get more then learning about the different buildings and the services that are provided to the students; however the parents and students can take the time to the chairperson of the students desire major. That way the parents and the students can learn about the services that the department provide to their students, as well as to talk with the students in the program about their perspective of the program. The second advice I would give the students is to take advantage of the services at their school and join clubs that suite their interests. In addition, they need to take the time to learn about arrange services their school provide for them to go to the beach, amusement park, shopping centers, and any location near or far from their schools.

Mandy

Visit campus to see what school fits you, ask million and one questions about the campus and once you decide and choice a school for you make friends it makes the experience worth while. education is the key to the future no matter how old you are there is a school that is made just for you!!!!

Karla

Parents should give advice to their kids about making the right college decision. I went through that experience and I could say that I was somewhat scared about entering a new stage in my life. A parent's support is the best comfort for students beginning college. It is best to make college visits, and then when it comes time to make a decision, pick the best college that suits the student's liking. The student should be able to feel comfortable and secure in a new type of setting. To make most of the college experience a student should come prepared into a new college to succeed and leave a mark on campus, so that student can be remembered when they leave. That is why is it best to get involved in clubs and activities and in the campus community. But it is important to never ignore your daily duties and to never forget why you are attending college.

Malikka

I would say to researcha nd find out everything about the school that you can. Be sure to visit the school and get to be familiar with your surroundings so that when you are on your own you can know where to get your neccesities. Be sure to find out if the school can provide you with what it is that you are looking for within a safe environment and a worthy school.

Janice

The most important advice I can ever give about finding the right school is to go and ask questions. Do research and make sure it is the one where you feel comfortable in. An educated choice is the best choice that can ever be made. When I visted Barry University I feel in love wth the hospotality of all the faculty and staff and in an instant I knew this is where I belonge. Many people frownded upon me for having choosen such a small private school that tends to be a bit more pricey then the neighboring community colleges of Miami but my response to that is, you just can not but a price on your education.

nedeen

visit the school first

Josefina

I lived on-campus for the four years I attended Barry University. From my experience, I advice parents and students to visit the college, research the area, and learn about the accreditation of the university and the school of interest attending. These are key factors to know before selecting a college to attend because many schools are not accredited, even though the university has an accreditation. This can cause problems in the long-run because graduate schools require the undergraduate school to have a specific accreditation. Additionally, the best advice I can give anyone is to live on-campus. Campus life gives students the overall college experience because they have all the resources they need to succeed in school. For instance, students who live on campus attend the labs, where tutors assist students with their homework. Also, I noticed that students who participate in extracurricular activities are those who reside in the dorms. Furthermore, students are able to meet their classmates and make friends forever, since they spend more time together: in the cafeteria, library, study groups, etc. Moreover, residing in the dorms allows students to become independent and grow personally and professionally.

Karla

Make sure that your child feels comfortable in the environment that the campus is located in. Remember that they need to feel like they are at home and that it is a friendly environment.

Jonathan

Find the school with the field of study you enjoy most and not one you choose because you feel the need or pressure to go to college. Choosing a school for the wrong reasons will cause you not to get the most out of your enducation and social life. When picking the college you wish to apply to pick the one you feel most comfortable in and would feel at home.

Karl

If your student is looking for a good pre-med program Barry University is a amazing school. That also goes for if you are looking for a small program where you can expand. Our Psychology Masters program is one of the best in the country. Though other then that you really need to look into your program to see if it suits your student. Barry is a great academic school but campus wise it has a way to go if you are looking for a lot of things to do on your campus Barry might not be a great place to go. Just make sure to take a tour of the school and talk with the students and you will get a pretty acurate desciption of what it is like to be a Barry student.

Jade

Make sure that the student has an idea of what is expected of them in school. Make sure that they are not lead on false pretenses that school is so hard and scary that if they don't constantly work hard they will never get anywhere in life. Students must know how to be responsible and know that their life is in their hands when they get to school.

Eliana

the best way to research about a school is by consulting with students or people that graduate from it

Omar

Finding the right college is not an easy task. In order to make the best decision possible for yourself or your children, you must first ask yourself,or them, a few basic questions. First I would ask,"what kind of degree are you seeking?", this will narrow schools down depending on how good they are in directing you to the best path for your future. For example, I applied to many schools and got into about 70{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of them, but in the end I chose Barry University because its business program is very honorable compared to the other choices, and i am a business major. Next, I would ask, " Are you more of a social person, or an independant person?" This will help dramatically narrow choices because a lot of big, social schools especially ones that have prominent greek life tend to outcast students who are not as active on campus as they are. Barry university has greek life, but a majority of the students are just average students. If your a social outgoing person, a bigger school may be better, If not , then a smaller school. In the end figuring out what kind of person you are will help.

Janna

It is very important to visit your school choices, talk to current students who will give you unbiased information about the school you have in mind. It is important to meet potential advisors and take a look at what the curribulum will be for your major, as they may differ school to school. The location and diversity of the campus will be important, since most students do not want to be far from home. The student should network to meet people that will start at the various school(s) around the same time, so that the transition will be easier. Also, making the most out of the resources available to you at the school of your choice will make this exciting time continue to remain that way.

Rafael

This one goes out to the parents, in order for your child to succeed in finding the right college they will need your support in whatever they decide on doing.

grace

when deciding what college to choose i t hink it is really important to have in mind the majors and careers they offer. how long to complete it, the credits, courses and the degree you would obtain after you are done with the programs. research the academic credentials, any internship opportunities, and specializations. also it is really important the location. if you do not like cold weather then you should probably attend a college in warm cities or where it does not snow. in addition, if you want to stay close to your family and friends then go to a college not to far away from your family and know if they offer on- campus housing. Also, class size, do some research about the average calss size of the college. if you are like me I prefer classes with no more than 30 students. in addition, know if the college you plan to attend have any financial aid, scholarship, grants, or work- study. if you play any sport find out if they give scholarships and grants for playing sports. finally visit the college this way you can decide if you like it or not and obtain more information.

Pauline

Go with somewhere you will feel comfortable.

Omar

The right college isnt always the best college. Find out more about your kids and what there interests are so you can pick the right school and not force the wrong school.

Sheila

I really think that the best advide in your first year of your studies is to find a balence. Balence between academics, activities, and a social life will really help you get the most out of your expirence. In picking which school is right for every individual the best thing to do is the expirence the campus. Sit in on a lecture, look through all the courses, talk to current students and most important walk around the campus and see if it feels right. Listen to your gut, and you will know what school is right for you. However, the worse thing you could do is pick a school based around other people's wants, needs, and opinions.

Cortney

Finding the right college is important, but sometimes unexpected. I had a lot of ideas about what school I wanted to go to and where that was, but things changed at the last minute and I ended up at a school that I feel completely at home at. I've made great friends and have had great experiences at Barry and I really am compltetly content with my decision. Education is so important, so my advice is this; Don't pick a school based on a social scene. Instead, find a school with a program that you're passionate about. There is no point in spending all of this money on going to school, to party and your education is worthless if you're not passionate about what it is you're studying. You'll make friends and find things to do anywhere you go, so pick a school where you'll get an education thats right for you.

Kia

Make sure the school is the students choice and not the parents.

Ryan

When selecting the right school for you, always keep in mind what it is you truly would like to get out of your college experience. Make sure that you always have your future career path on your mind, even if one decides to enroll as an undecided major. Nobody wants to wake up in the morning and hate what they do for a living, so follow your dreams and do what makes you happy. This bit of advice goes for both parents and students because in today's world, anything is possible. Always remember the point of college is to put yourself in the best possible position to accomplish your goals. I myself am going to school to obtain a degree that revolves around the Scuba Diving Industry, something I never thought existed. Luckily for me, I have a loving support system in my family and friends and looked long and hard for the school that would help me achieve greatness in my field. Also, keep in mind that your surrounding can directy affect your ability to learn. Choose a school in an area you can see yourself striving in. Most importantly, remain focused because the fun will always come.

Felicia

I would advice those parents and students that finding the right college is not an easy task, but once they find the right college, it is the most amazing experience anyone can ask for; the ability to learn whatever one chooses, and meeting friends along the way is one of the greatest experiences because you dont feel like your going through life alone. Networking is also very important to do while in college because it helps after college is one stays connected!

Amber

Most people who are beginning college aren't quite sure what they want to do with their lives, and that's fine. Go someplace where you feel comfortable, where you trust your academic advisors, and where you can see yourself living for four years. Many schools offer quality degree programs in many different areas of study and success is determined not only through how hard one works or how much one applies oneself to work, but mostly through how a student prioritizes in general. This is the time where a student meets some of the most important and influential people in his or her life and he or she thereby learns more than ever about him or herself, where he or she thinks they might want to go, and figures out the type of person that he or she might want to become. It's important that the student surrounds him or herself with people who will facilitate these changes and reflect positively on one another. Essentially, find someplace where you are happy and comfortable and the rest will follow.

Amanda

Find the place where you feel at home!

Yamili

Make sure to visit the college campus with your parents and sons/ daughters. Make sure to like what you see, and visit an advisor for the field you are considering to study. It is important to gather as much information from the college as possible, this is required to make a wise choice in picking the school that is right for you. It is also a good idea to visit the orientation programs so you are able to meet other student and possibly even make friends. I followed all these steps and I completely satisfied with my experience at my university.

Cybil

To the parents I would suggest that they try to get a feel of their children?s study habits, maturity and capabilities. Often times you may feel that your child will establish better study habits and gain a lot of maturity by going away for school. Often times, it?s not such a wise choice. Therefore, a parent must put these into consideration when helping out with the decision-making. Other aspects to consider would be how much financial aid is being offered by the school, what kind of outside resources does the school offer and even atmosphere: Is this a place that you feel your child will be comfortable to get the most out of their education. As for students, one must look deep inside and really consider what their goals are. Know what you want out of your college experience. Know how to juggle having a good time without it having to interfere with your studies. If you feel that you are one that loves to go out constantly, do not try to find a school where this may be a predicament.

Briana

I would tell the students to be completely honest with themselves and with what they really want out of their college experience. Picking the college that fits your personality best is extremely important. If you know that you have trouble balancing work and play time, know your limits and avoid schools known for their partying. Only the student knows exactly what they want out of the next fours years in their life. Additionally, college is what you make it. To make the most out of your college experience, do not just sit around and wait for events to come to you. Get out of your room and get involved on campus. That alone will help you make friends and find things to do. My advice is to make things happen for yourself. As a wise person once said, " You can best predict your future by creating it." Be true to yourself and you will be fine in the process of choosing a school and experiencing the best four years of your life.

nathalie

that the teachers are into the students and care about thier academic life

Emily

the first thing the student should do is to decide on a major. Next, the student should pick a school which is known to be excellent at that major--don't just pick a school because it has a big name, there are many programs at smaller school that are better at the less known school than at a better known school. Lastly, don't be afraid to travel far--it may just be worth it to follow your dreams.

Natalie

The most important thing in selecting the right college, is making sure that the college you decide on will nourish both your studious side and your social side. It is equally important to feel part of a group of friends and to feel at home in your living quarters as it is to thrive in your classes and get good grades. A comfortable student is a happy student, and happy students do better in school when they are not stressed out by other things in their lives.

Stephania

As a senior at Barry University, I would like to advise you about making one of the many important decisions of your lives, which is choosing the right college/university. First of all, you need to figure out what your intended major would be during your college years, so you will be able to narrow down your search to schools that offer your intended major. In addition, you will be to search for schools that have exceptional programs in your major. Once, you have found the schools that offer your intended major take the time to evaluate their program, along with contacting the chairperson of the program in order to get more information. Second of all, try to find out the student-teacher ratio because if you are a type of person that need the one on one interaction with your professor than a smaller university/college would be perfect for you, but you are not into that than a large university/college is perfect for you. Finally, to make the most of your college experience is by joining clubs and take advantage all of the services your perspective school offers you to excel academically. Best wishes, Stephania P. Desir

amanda

In order in picking the right college, the student must apply to as many schools as possible. Deciding which school to apply to includes a couple of factors. One, most importantly, is if you have an idea on what career path you'd choose, you must apply to schools that are able to offer it. However, many students tend to change their majors upon entering a new school, therefore a university with many options is useful. Also, it is necessary to decide how big of a school you'd like to go to. There are many small schools, as well as medium-sized and large schools. Location of the school is quite efficient. If you find it easier to go to class when the weather is warmer then choose from schools in the south. Visiting schools are key. In most cases, you're acceptance rate becomes higher. Also it will give you a better feeling of the area. It is then easier to decide whether or not you'd be happy and able to live there.

Rafaela

I Think that parents should let their children choose their own path in life, and also encourage them in what they pursue. An important factor in choosing a school is to like the city that it is located. The second to make sure that there are enough opportunities for internships and maybe gettin hired in the field that the students will pursue. The children should have the option to choose the school and also the place where they will live durring those 4 years of college. On-campus living sometimes isnot very good because they will deviate from their path in their freshman year, because of all the motion that is going on in their lives, new people, new school, new teachers, new freinds.

Kim

Make sure that you look into each aspect and not just the location. I payed more attention to the location of my school than the academic and extracurricular programs. I got lucky, but sometimes others do not.

Jenice

My advice to parents and students would be to look for a place that feels right from the start. A college that from the minute you step on campus you know that you belong. You also want to make sure that financially you will be able to support your education for the next couple of years, consider your options and make sure you financially you are covered. As for your college experience, take each semester one at a time; enjoy all the on-campus activities, attend the weekend get aways, make friends and have fun! Before you know it, you will be graduating.

Reshma

Finding the right college is very important because that is where you or your child will spend 4 years of their lives. It is important to visit the campus and look around to get a feel of the campus and surrounding areas. Also meeting the advisors, students and other people on campus gives you an idea of who will be your peers. It is also very important to do research on the school's academic programs and how they suit your academic plans. A high ranking school is wonderful but a school that is good at your program but may not be high ranked is just as good. There are many things that go into choosing a school but most importantly you have to be comfortable and happy where you will be or those four years will be miserable. Good luck!!

Catherine

Get involved in any school activity possible, it allows for the opportunity to meet new people.

Ligia

As my college days soon come to an end the best advice I can give students and parents in finding the right college is to visit colleges. A college education is such an important investment that should not be based on the glossy brochures filled with beautiful landscapes. Take a tour, get a feel for what the environment is really like. I recommend students to take guided tours at different times of the day and talk to students. Many colleges and universities have an open campus policy. Visit on your own and talk to anyone you see, you may be surprised at how different the responses may be compared to the students you encountered with the tour guide. Also, get involved around campus but maintain a balance between your social activities and your studies. It can get overwhelming when you have a schedule full of extracurricular activities, exams, homework, and group projects. One last piece of advice is to network. Whether it is among professors, classmates, or employers that may visit during career fairs, networking will be your key to landing a career once you have completed the journey of what it is to be a college student.