Baylor University Top Questions

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

Nicolette

Visit the campus, orstay on campus if possible, before choosing your college. Consider the city that the univeristy is in. Develop good study habits.

Kandace

Start applying to schools early. Apply to any and all schools that you might be interested in. You want to keep your options open. Do not let money be a reason to not look into, apply, or attend a college or university. There are several financial aid opportunities that are offered and available. Also, apply for scholarships! The process may seem long, annoying, and repetative, but is definately worth your efforts! Visit the schools that you are looking into. Ask questions, meet professors, talk to current students, sit in on classes; don't be afraid to "dig" around. Don't settle for a school you aren't completely satisfied with. You'll know you're where you need to be because it just feels right. It's a perfect fit. College life is still a change, and an adjustment so give it a fair shot by giving it time. Don't be afraid to be who you are. Colleges are filled with diversity and may force you to step out of your comfort zone. Jump out! Meet people, get involved, invest in relationships, apply yourself, and embrace uncertainties because that is how you will discover the keys to your future.

Heather

My advice would be to look at the college "on paper," visit the campus, and talk to school councelors before officially accepting an offer. Apply to multiple schools to have options and which one is best suited to the student's needs, whether the student is looking for a good business program or a school that is strong in the sciences for example. The student should also decide if a public or private college is a deciding factor to narrow down the application field and get an idea of the campus atmosphere. He/she should consider the size of the student body and decide if a large or small school is right for him/her. The size of the campus and student body is extremely important as it will oftentimes affect a student's comfort level, either positively or negatively. The student should look into extracurricular activities. If the student wants to join a certain club or wants to participate in Greek life, he/she should look at colleges that offer groups of interest with maximum availability and campus support. For parents and students alike: don't get overwhelmed! It is all worth it, enjoy the experience!

Kenna

Finding the right college can be a daunting task for a young adult. Afterall, this is where you are going to spend the next pivotal four years and will serve as a springboard for whatever you decide to do with the rest of your life. This decision can be simplified however by asking yourself a few important questions during the process of selecting a college. Most importantly of all, figure out what it is that you want out of your college experience. Not what your parents want for you, not what your friends want, but what you want. Additionally, ask yourself what size classes you would want to be in or what size community would you like to live in. If you are planning to go to graduate school or medical school, ask yourself which colleges have the best chance of getting you there. As far as how to make the most of the college experience, my best advice is to try to find balance between your grades and your social life. As important as grades are, developing good social skills and building potentially lifelong relationships are equally important to one's growth into an adult during the college years.

Alisha

The biggest mistake seniors make when choosing a school is waiting until the last minute to apply. It often happens that a child will not get in because of a poorly constructed application, therefore, it is important to spend plenty of time on the process until every detail is correct. Once accepted, the student should attend all Orientation and Welcome Week functions. The first week is a great time to make friendships that could last a lifetime. Also, sometime during the first semester is the time to check out various clubs and organizations because it is a good idea to find your niche. Most college students that would identify as "outsiders" feel that way because they never found a place to belong on campus. Campuses are somewhat like tiny, replica cities and it is easy to get lost so be sure to find your place as quickly as possible and it will make for a wonderful experience.

Deana

Go to Baylor! No, seriously, I believe every person is different and therefore, has different needs. There is so much information online these days that will help to find the school which offers the courses most tailored to your needs. Things to be considered besides pursuing a degree in the field of choice are: 1) location; 2) cost of tuition (scholarships and financial aid offered); 3) size; 4) ranking/reputation; 5) housing; and 6) campus life, not necessarily in that order. I would suggest listing a student's priorities as to what he/she is looking for in a college, doing research to determine which schools meet these requirements, and then visiting as many schools as possible. Sometimes a school that looks one way online or "in black and white" will not appear the same way in person. Of course, today the tuition costs are a main factor to be considered. Through all of this, the student and parents need to pray, pray, pray!

Reina

I would say to find a place that you can feel comfortable at and that has many opportunities available to you.

Jeremy

Have fun.

Jennifer

Finding the right school takes a lot of researching and a lot of visits to different campuses. You may have your mind set on a certain college because you would be a second generation there or because the school is close, but finding a college that suits you the best takes more than that. I was set out to go to Kansas State University. With a scholarship under my belt, and a short three hour drive, K-State was comfortable for me. Hearing about Baylor University really changed my outlook on what I wanted my college experience to be like. The moment I stepped onto the Baylor campus, I felt like everything was just right and Baylor was where I was suppose to be. The friendly Student Foundation and staff welcomed me with open arms and I felt that not only was I comfortable, but it garuanteed that I would be challenged mentally and spiritually. So, my advice to parents and students would be to not only research the college via internet, but buy a plane ticket or take a road trip and experience the college first hand. You will know when you have found the right college.

Michael

Try to imagine what you want to do for a career and pick a school that will cater to that best. Think outside the box, be open minded and think about how much you want to pay for a school. Some times the amount you pay can be acceptable because of the prestige of the school. Other times not. Also, the city where you live should be a place that you enjoy living in.

John

Be sure to visit each school extensively and asks students and professors lots of questions. Do not soley rely on the tour guide.

Emily

Follow your heart, and do a lot of research. Expect to change your major and what you want to do with your life. Be open to new friendships and activities and changing your views about life.

Sarah

When choosing a school, I would suggest talking with other students beforehand. Campus visits are also vital, because that is the best way to get to know the school dynamic and the types of things the school values. Make sure that these things line up with what you believe and value. No matter what kinds of people you find on campus, if the basic values line up, there is sure to be a group that you will easily fit into. To make the most of your college experience, it is essential to get plugged in as soon as possible. Many schools present new students with countless opportunities to get involved, and it is crucial for students to get involved with something they are passionate about. This gives students the chance to meet others that love to do the same things they enjoy doing, and that is how lasting relationships are made. Living in community with these people is not only fun, but also challenging, forcing individuals to find out their true identity. This is exactly what the college experience should be.

Alberto

I would recommend parents and students to take their time researching all options. First decide what you are looking for, how big of a school do you want, does it have a major you plan to pursue, what percentage of students graduate in four years. Another thing that I recommend is to not go by the school's name. For example many people apply to Harvard simply because its Harvard, however Harvard may not be the best school for the area you seek to study. Another suggestion i would make to parents or students applying to college is to keep it real. Many students do not have the qualifications to be accepted, yet they still dream on going there, the applicant has to make sure their attributes match or surpass the requisites. In regards to making the most of the college experience I would recommend someone to practice good time management. It is important to be able to have more than enough time to study, but always remember to have fun. Otherwise you will end uo wearing yourself out.

Sara

Have your children talk to students, they live the experience and are going to tell you what it is really like to attend that university. Colleges all start to sound the same, but if you hear why the students selected the way they did, what their background was, and what their experiences have been like that will give you the best insight.

Meredith

Be yourself. (As we say at Baylor, "B.U." haha!) In all seriousness though, go into college confident of who you are. People will respect and love you for being geuine and personable. Make the most of everything, because it flies by!

Louisa

Searching for the right fit when it comes to college can sometimes be a tough process, but if students and parents carefully examine their options I am sure they'll make the right choice. First I recommend visiting the schools you are interested in. Not visiting a prospective school is like buying a non-returnable outfit with out trying it on; once you make the choice you can't change your mind. I also recommend talking to some of the students and professors to get a feel for the learning environment. and the campus life. Is the school top tier or Ivy Leauge? Does your school have lots to do on campus? Is there an air of school spirit? These are all important questions you should be looking to answer. Also I feel that its important to find a school that caters to your needs in your particular feild of study. If you are a business major find a competitive business school. If you are a fine arts major, audition at a prestigious arts school. Once you find the right school you'll know it. Just have fun exploring your options. It's an eye opening experience.

Meg

When you are beginning your college search, you shouldn't limit yourself to just one school. Keep your options open, and don't close yourself off to other opportunities. Apply early and go visit the schools you are serious about. A school can be completely different than their website. Ask your advisor if there are any scholarships that they can suggest for you, and apply for them quickly. Interact with students when you visit a school, and ask them why they chose their specific university. They will be able to honestly answer questions for you without over exaggerating, and most of the time, they will be passionate about their school. Find a place where the students all go to hang out and study and check it out. Don?t be embarrassed to ask questions because everyone has been there and understands where you?re coming from. Most importantly, don?t stress about it. It all ends up working out and it will be one of the best times of your life. You will make friends that you will have forever, and they will experience the defining moments of your life with you.

Kelly

The most valuable piece of advice I would give to a student trying to decide the perfect college is, go where YOU want to go. I know that does not sound profound and it mostly just sounds like common sense but after my own experience and listening to many of my friend's story once key element to college is going where you will most fit in, where you will thrive, and where you will not just be satisfied but filled with joy. Not going to a college where your boyfriend is going, or your best friend will be, or where your family legacy comes from. In the end YOU are the one living in that city, taking those classes, being in that fraternity or sorority, and going to that college. And then I would reasure them that transfering is always an option, that the pressure placed on this decision is not really that big, and that they can always transfer if it is not all that they dreamed of. College is supposed to be the best years of your life, but they can't be the best years of YOUR life if your living them for somone else.

jennifer

Exhaust all financial aid options first and push yourself/and your child to earn a scholarship. Make sure your going to a particular school for the academics and not for miscellaneous items. Too often people are at a school where the environment is not good for them and their studies. Have fun but stay focused don't get caught up in other folks drama because it is easy to immerse yourself in someone Else's' situation and forget about your priorities. Many colleges have so many resources available take advantage of them because they usually are a tremendous opportunity and can help give you an advantage in the field of study you choose to pursue.

Christina

I would first suggest that the academic standing of the school be well-known. I would then look at the safety of the college enviornment. Also a good thing to seek in a college is the friendliness of the students on campus. I definetly advise parents and students to visit the campuses as part of their decision-making process. Upon attending the school chosen I would recommend that the student gets to know the classmates around them. I would also recommend that they get involved in one or two of the campus activities that appeals to their interests. My experience revealed that the communication amongst a student and his/her professor helps to increase acknowledgement of the material taught.

Cole

Visit the campus and talk with the faculty and staff as well as several current students.

Ryan

Baylor is a place for students that our looking forward to the next level. That is their Career. While it does offer the typical college expeirences such as football games, frat life, and crush events certianly this is not a school just for those who are looking for the Animal House college life. Students here our involved in tons of volunteer events, internships and campus activities. Baylor offers a worldly outlook as well as a strong acdemic background do its graduates.

Kashena

Finding the right college is not an easy process. I would advise parents and students to visit the campus as well as interact with the current students to find out about the college before you attend. I didn't do that when I was choosing schools and I really wish I have. Although Baylor University is a wonderful school, I could have went a cheaper way out and receive the same education. Now that I am here I wouldn't leave it but I wish I had did a little more research on the school. Yes, I believe I will recieve a good education and I will have a list of job offers when I graduate because the Baylor seal is on my diploma, but I will advise any one who is planning to attend college to do the research first. Thank you and God Bless!

Keri

About finding the right college: Really look into the different schools. Don't just look at a brochure. Visit, meet current students and professors, sit in on a class. It gives an invaluable look into how the college really functions and how it feels to be there. See how you like the campus, the dorms, and if everything just fits. It is more than worth it to find the school that makes you happy. To make the most of your college experience there is nothing more important than to not be afraid to get involved. Join a club, try intramurals, participate in a group project, go out an explore campus and the surrounding town with friends, attend a college play/theatrical production. Being involved makes you instantly feel more a part of the school and makes you appreciate the experience of being in college more. Lastly, enjoy the freedom of college and the lack of responsibilities... You can never replace memories of just sitting on a front porch with friends, listening to music and knowing your biggest worry is next week's midterm, but for the moment you have nothing to do but hangout and enjoy life.

Timothy

Take location into consideration. Campus visits are actually worth the time and money. Try to find a place where you will actually be happy.

natasha

Know your likes and dislikes and decide by weighing out your options.

Carylea

Don't make any quick decisions when looking at schools. Even if it's the school you've ALWAYS wanted to go to, visit the school, do some more research on it, and talk to the students who presently attend to get another opinion. When you do attend college, make use of GOOD TIME MANAGEMENT. Yes, have a social life, but don't forget about your studies, because that is why you are there. Find a happy balance and enjoy the time that you have, because it flies by so quickly!

Robert

Visit the college first. DO NOT make decisions without visiting the campus and speaking with current students. Also, consider the job placement when finishing your degree.

Mark

In order for students to find the university that is right for them, I suggest they pick the college in which they can express themselves with the morals and hard work that they have learned at home. Peer pressure in this day in age to live the text book college life is almost overwhelming for even the strongest of individuals. A high school student needs to pick a setting that they know they can grow into an adult and gain as much knowledge as possible to further their success in life. Once you have selected the place for you, the best thing you can do is to get involved. Universities across the nation have thousands of clubs, intramurals, and societies that you can become a part of and meet new friends. The interactions with other kids similar to yourself will only help you maximize your personal attributes and self confidence as a young adult. These few years are truly the first time you are on your own, and your experience will be as fun as you make it. A college should be a place that motivates a student physically and mentally before they are placed in the real world.

Stefanie

Pick a college you can make your home. I walked onto one campus during my colllege search and immediately thought, "I would die if I had to live here for four years." I left early and never looked back. While money doesn't grow on trees, choosing a college based on its cost can send you to a college you hate. Be willing to spend the extra money for a valuable education and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Grants, scholarships, and loans work together to make college affordable. Fill out the FAFSA even if you think you don't qualify for aid. Don't let fear keep you from what you really want. I was scared and nervous about studying in Europe by myself for a semester, but I saw amazing art, conversed in imperfect Italian, stood on top the Eiffel Tower, and touched the Berlin Wall. Try out the food on campus- you'll be eating it for the next four (or five) years. Don't stress yourself out- if you really can't make your school home, you can transfer. If you hate your major, change it. Study something you love, something that inspires you. Challenge yourself.

Brittany

Students: Keep in my mind what you are really seeking in your college experience before you accept to a school. If your top priority is enjoying the "college life" don't choose a school that is focused entirely on academics, and vice versa, if you want to get in and get out with a degree, don't choose a party school, put yourself in a college setting that will allow you to focus on your studies without unneccesary distractions like a party next door every night. Parents: Don't worry too much about your children. They will get an education regardless where they go, but this is there time to live out there dreams and discover who they really are. So take the backseat for a while, don't worry, you will still be the first people we call if anything major happends. They didn't get this far without you, and they know it. Admitting it is another thing though.

Nathan

The first thing is: Be flexable! As I've traveled around Texas a bit to visit friends at other colleges, I've found out that college is college. Anywhere you go, there will be people that bother you and there will be opportunities for great friendships. There will be classes where you are dissapointed with the professors and there will be classes you absolutly love. When you're looking for a school, try and stay positive. When you get negative, it's easy to be cynical and perspective has a whole lot to do with wether you enjoy your time or not. Keep an eye open for those schools that really show appriciation for the prospective students and help along the way most graciously. These are the schools that are going to care for you in the long run, and it's nice when the school shows concern for the individual! It will encourage you to go further and ease the stress load along the way. When you get to school for the first time that freshman year, have a goal of what you want to do, what you want to be involved in and do it.

Anna

I think it is very wise to visit the campus and talk with the students, professors, and staff to see what they have to say about the university. It would also be to one's advantage to sit in a class and get a feel for what an actual day would look like. As far as making the most of one's college experience, I think a person gets out of college what he/she puts into it. One learns as much as he wants to and experiences life to the degree he desires. It helps to make friends with people who think similarly and to make friends with people that think radically different to gain advice and to broaden one's perspective. Lastly, when entering college, it helps to seek to think outside the box. Try to relate to a person you've related with before, or try a different flavor of ice cream when you head to cafeteria. I mean how many times are they going to serve 'superman with a hint of pistachio' without at least three people getting sick? It's worth it simply for the experience.

Morgan

Speak to someone at the campus that best reflects who you are as a person to gauge whether or not someone like yourself will be comfortable on campus. Once you are on campus do not hestitate to engage in extracirricular activities and trying new experiences that you may not have been exposed to before.

Zoe

As a senior a at a prestigious four year university, I would advise both students and parents to begin the search for the perfect school as early as sophomore year in high school if necessary. It is never too early to begin to think about the future. I also suggest speaking to students who currently attend the schools the student is considering. Important things to find out about are, profesor helpfulness, class size, student parties, student diversity, and financial aid. Once attending a school, students should make sure to study every day for at least three hours to stay on top of school work, join at least one organazation so you feel like you're part of something you're passionate about, and most importantly go out with friends and blow off some steam at least once a week.

Paula

I would strongly advise parents to give their son or daughter the freedom to choose whichever college they want to attend. Also, encourage the potential student to visit their top prospective colleges/universities. Always, always, always discipline your son or daughter to work on scholarships. I would advise doing at least one a month during the first 3 years of high school. Then by the time the student reachses senior year, he or she should be doing as many scholarships as possible. Even if the school that your child wants to attend is expensive, try not to discourage them from going. Instead, show them the number of scholarships they are going to have to do to pay for their school! Remember, even though you are helping your son or daughter to pay for school the student's life is being mapped out for the next 4 years or so. Be aware of the emphasis you are placing on what college they attend, because it may not benefit them in the future. Parents, you are investing in your student's life and are an important factor in he or she attending college. Thank you so much for your support financially and emotionally!

Hilary

Finding the right college is kind of like dating and finding someone you want to be with you. It takes a little research and a few "dates", or visits to each campus to get a feel for them. But when you find the one you're supposed to go to, you just know. When I visited Baylor the summer before my senior year, I just knew that was where I was supposed to be. Just keep your options open and investigate any schools that spark interest.

Jessamyn

The most important thing is choosing a college that feels right for the student. There has to be a balance between the academic and social life, and the total package has to be a good fit. Visiting campuses and trying to contact current first-year students is a good way to find out if that school will suit. After matriculation, grades are most important. However, no one can study full-time and benefit from it. Join a club that suits your background or your interests, get involved in volunteering, hang out in the student center, go to the fitness center, make friends and go out as a group once a week, or find something else fun to do. If you feel it could be right for you, rush a Greek organization and if it fits, try to get a bid and survive the rigors of pledging. Take classes that will help you in the future, and some that will challenge you, but every so often take a fun class as well--like Tennis or Concert Band.

Ashley

When it comes to finding the right college for you, it's all about research! You really should get as much information on your top prospective schools as you can, narrow your choices, then visit as many of those as possible. Visiting Baylor made me fall in love with the campus and the people which is why I'm happy to go there today.

Chiquta

Apply for financial aid ASAP! The sooner its taken care of the less stressful life will be.

Tregg

Send your kids to Baylor. Its a great school that you can trust to give your kids a great education as well as a safe, and exciting college environment.

Brittany

It might sound a little over-eager, but it's never too early to start inquiring and planning. The more that the student and his or her parents know and understand about the application process and the universities to which they are applying, the better. This is a major decision in a student's life and I truly believe that the best decision is one that is well-informed.

Luis

Make sure that the college you attend (student) fits all of your needs, NOT your parents. In order for you to be happy wherever you go, you have to feel comfortable, or your four years will be helll!!!

Shaina

The best thing I can say is not to take the easy route. You will find more satisfaction going to a university a thousand miles away with the program you want and the environment that you like than to go to a college an hour down the road because it will save on money. If money is a problem take the time to write an essay or two for a scholarship, and do not be afraid to have a student loan under your name. And take every chance you can to get away from home so that you can learn about the world, its people, and their ways of thinking. Whether you learn about the world through cultural clubs or a study abroad experience, I would say that either way will make your college life much more valuable.

Matthew

Do as much reasearch as you can. Visit any college you are seriously considering and find out what life is like at that college.

Tracee

To parents: It's hard to understand, but let you child pick their school. Don't be scammed by the easy way to pay for school. It can only be done by you out of pocket, scholarships, grants, or loans. Don't be afraid to let your only child go away, it will only help them grow. Don't discourage them if it take more than four years to finish. To students: Don't pick a school by the academics only or social life only. You need a healthy balance of both. When you get to school, dive in. Try to do as much as you can your first semester because after that you can't mess up anymore. Once you have been in school for a couple of years, help the newcomers, they will greatly appreciate it. Take your time in finding out what you want to do with the REST of your life. You are only a student for so many years, it's alright if it takes you five or six or more years to get a bachelor's. As long as you are happy with your career, that is all that matters.

Allyson

Make sure you chose a college that fits you the best, don't just choose it because your best friend or boyfriend is attending there as well. Also, be sure and go for a visit before choosing a school, that is very important. Make sure your school has an open mind regarding religion and extracirriculars.

Mark

Take the time to look at different colleges, and weigh out the pros and cons of each one. Each campus is different, and its when you instantly feel at home on campus that you've found the perfect college for you. Be open to all the new opportunities that college can offer you. Don't simply attend somewhere because someone else did or does, chose to go to the college that fits you, and you feel at home walking across campus.

Braden

College is about preparing yourself for a career. Many students enter college with ideas or decisions already made about their future. Whether you've already decided what you want to do with your life or you don't have a clue, make sure you're final decision is motivated by one thing. Not salary, stability, or even family pressure, but passion. Use your college experience to discover your passions, then begin searching for a future that accomodates them. The happiest you'll be in this life is if you discover what you were made to do, what you love to do, then find someone to pay you to do it. If you begin your college search and enter college with that mindset, you'll be more open to exploring the opportunities this world has to offer, and there are many.