Bethel University-Saint Paul Top Questions

Don't stress out! Once you're accepted into a school of your choice, you become classified as one of hundreds of new freshmen in your same shoes. They are just as nervous as you are to make new friends and adjust to dorm life as smoothly as possible. High school as prepared you just fine for the challenges and new ventures found only at college!

During my senior year, I thought that it was "party" time. I did my very best through 9th, 10th, and 11th grade so I figured that senior year I could just enjoy myself. I made sure I was at all school events, spent time after school at the mall, and was always the one to procrasinate when it came to school work. I spent time looking at colleges and doing college visits, however, a year after graduating I am not in college and finding myself working hard every day saving money to get there this year. I regret the choices I made senior year and I take full responsibilty for the consequences. If I could go back and talk to myself I would say, "Desiree', instead of going to the mall go to the library and look at scholarships to help you get through school." I would also tell myself to stop being a procrastinator and that if I ever wanted to be successful during and after college that that word would have to be eliminated off my traits list. I know that I could never go back in time, but the past only makes me ready for the future.

I would have looked into more professions and shadowed people so that I would have had a better idea of what I wanted to do so I wouldn't have to switch my major multiple times and end up going to school for more than 4 years. I also would have chosen a school for me and not have gone to the school where everyone in my family had gone and where I was expected to go. I could have been way more happy and successful if I had gone to one of the other schools I had gotten accepted to. If I could go back, I would have taken the college application and decision process more seriously and would have prayed about it a lot more.

There comes a time when everyone realizes what they want to do or be when they grow up, but I am here to assure you that I have seen it firsthand that the decisions you will make in the upcoming months will shape a future that is not so bright. I know it must be really hard to accept this especially from me but truth be told when our parents said ?Life isn?t always easy and sometimes you have to grow up quick? is absolutely the truth. During your last and final year here at Douglas Mac Arthur, you will be quick to blow off college for an alternate route, but speaking from experience, that is not the route you want to go down. I say this to you to try to spare you the pain I have felt that comes from disappointment and to say, ?Give College a fair chance?! Sure college might not be for everyone but it is for you, you will see trust me. By following my advice, you will be able to start a life full of rewards that comes with a college degree without wasting several years of your life!

Looking back, I do not think I would tell myself anything or give myself any advice. I believe that the experiences that I have had thus far in college have helped shape who I am and my perspectives on life and academics. I have done well academically and socially. There is not a single piece of advice that I would tell myself because I would not want to risk possibly changing a single aspect of my college career thus far.

Undertake more academic work in order to prepare for the class work that is involed in a higher educational setting. Ask more questions of the teachers, and challenge myself to earn better grades. Set goals that are both short term and long term, and strive to meet each one. By doing this, there is a greater chance of success and knowing were I want to be at specific points in time will insure that I meet all the goals. Work at being disciplined and focused, and take all the assignments in college seriously. The best thing that we can give our selves is an deucation, and with that the opportunities are endless. Do not take for granted the ablity of learning and being taught something new; we never really stop learning unless we choose to.

Take time to decide what exactly you want to study and where you want to be. Don't feel rushed to go to college right away. The world is a huge place that should be explored.

After transitioning from high school to college, I wish I would have developed better study habits. Also, I wish I would have been more driven to complete tasks more efficiently. College life can get busy at times and time management skills are key to success. Anyone could attest that if one studies hard and manages their time well they are better off academically. Furthermore, looking back I wish I would have been more outgoing in participating in school clubs and being involved in my high school. Getting involved at college, besides sports, has been difficult for me because I haven't taken advantage of the opportunities given to me. I would advise someone transitioning into college to get involved right from the start and to take advantage of their school's resources. Doing so will help them attain their greatest aspirations.

I would tell myself to work harder in the IB program. My one regret is that I never got the IB diploma and if I would have gotten that then I would have gotten more college credit for my high chool classes. At the time I did not realize how much credit I could earn for all of those classes. I also would tell myself to save the money I made and apply for every single scholarship that was avalible. College is expensive and looking back at my high school years I realize how much I could have been saving so that Iwould not have to take out any amount of loans. The mot important thing I would have told myself is to relax. I would say that yes, college is a big deal and it is important to save money and do well but enjoy the present and not always be thinking about the next stage of my life.

I would advise myself to take as many AP classes as I could and apply myself in all of them. I realize now how much money I could have saved having done so. When I was in high school, I thought that classes were hard and there was too much homework, now I know how silly that was. I have learned to apply myself more in college and take advantage of the learning opportunities.

I would tell myself to look at all different types of schools, when considering colleges. You never know what opportuties could arise from a college that you wouldn't at first see yourself attending.

If I were in high school again knowing what I know now about college, I would tell myself to be sure I am ready to apply myself and give it my all. If at the time of graduation I am burnt out on school, then take one college course the next semester and still be able to enjoy my youth. It is a waste of time and money to go to college if you end up spending most of your time partying. In todays world a degree is nearly essential in order to have a career. Explore your interest then take a few classes in different areas to obtain a truer feeling as to whether you a really interested in that chosen career. After a year of out of school experiences yet still taking one course a semester to keep you in touch with learning, you will have a better idea of the path you want to take. Now go for it and apply yourself to your ability and you will succeed.

Work on your homework and get good grades. Take time to study and also time to play with friends. Keep yourself focused on the finish line. Take in your college experience and learn as much as you can!

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself that I should work hard and not to worry! God has everything in His hands and He has his plans for my life. I would also tell myself to not be shy and try as hard as possible to make friends now. Also, to be ready to do more work than you ever would have imagined, to have more fun than could be thought possible, and to be ready to make friends for life. Oh, and Play less videogames, play more in life... and work as hard as ever!

There are important things to remember when entering college; bring your own fan, pillows, and bed sheets; sign up for the right classes, do not fall asleep in lectures, pay attention in class, do not procrastinate, and do not cram before exams. But there are far more essential and important idea you must grasp: College is the time and the place to do anything and everything you want. There are limitations to what you wish to do, but there is never a limit to how much you learn. It is the perfect place to grow, and discover the person you truly are. You are now in control: of the friends you make, the classes you take, the professors you admire, the clubs you join. It is the gateway to the real world, a chance of a trial-and-error to real life, where the rest starts at the feet of your success and the things you have accomplished during your times here.

Do not wait until you are in college to decide what kind of person you are going to be. If you walk into college without a clear idea of who you want to be, it is too easy to be swept away by the crowd around you. It is commonly said that college is about "finding yourself." However, I have learned that if you have not put any significant thought into this before arriving at college, "finding yourself" turns into "becoming like everyone else," "fitting in," or just "having fun." If you decide beforehand the kind of person you want to be and the goals you hope to reach, it will not be quite so simple to be swept off your path. This is not to say that you are not allowed to have fun or to change your mind in college. Unexpected things will happen and it is through these things that we sometimes learn the most. However, based on my experience, if I could have given myself one piece of advice, it would have been to decide early on who I wanted to be and to have pursued that with all of my might.

Looking back now, there are several things i would say to myself, as well as things I would do to prepare myself for what lies ahead. I take advantage of my high school years and prepare myself as best as I can for my higher education. I would allot my self to the resources available to me and take my education with utmost seriousness. I would make several goals and dedicate time ane effort to set myself up for successifuly achieving these goals in the future that lies ahead of me. I would make good choices within my social life, and establish morals early on to encourage me for the new life and lifestyle that lies ahead of me. I would find it of great importance to take much time of thought and consideration of what path and career choice is best for me. I would prepare myself for failure, and equip myself with an attitude that would build myself up. I would prepare myself for a time of trial and hardship, but also a time of fun and laughter, and the knowledge of how to find a balance of the two.

The advice I would go back and give myself is that changes have to happen and to just try and live each day. I knew what school I wanted to go to and I am glad about my choice. Yet, the thing I was most scared about was that I would be the only one transitioning and now I know that everyone is scared and how normal that is. I would go back and give the advice to just breathe and to enjoy the journey to college.

I honestly would have to say that I wouldn't give myself any advice beause I have accomploshed more than enough in high school. I was an over-acheiver in high school (meaning that I would get all my assignments done the very same day that they were hadned out and I am still like that here in college.) I have made a bonding relationship with my high school teachers and they are really sad that I am gone because I was a TA for like 25+ teachers.

There are several things I would have done differently as a high school senior before entering college. I would have made sure to have a steady job and begin to save money. I did really well keeping up my grades, but at the same time I wish that I had made time to enjoy the simple life I had, because I have learned that college, while enjoyable, is constantly busy. Finally, I wish that I had simply become more independent. I have always been dependent on my family, both financially and otherwise, and I wish that they had encouraged me to try to rely on myself, when I would have still had them around as a sort of safety net. Overall, I would have simply done what I did do: get high grades, start college classes early, and decide my major early on. Starting college is different for everyone, but it usually gets into an easy routine after a few weeks.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to worry about knowing what I want to major in or what I would like for a career. Think about it of course, but don't stress. Many freshman college students change their mind when they take classes and figure out what is interesting to them and what they are good at. I would tell myself to get involved in a variety of different activities in school and in the community in order to discover my passions and talents. I would start college visiting early and visit many places; the campus 'feel' makes all the difference! Stay over night on campus and observe the student interactions. Mostly, I would tell myself that the pressure society puts on you to know what you want to do at a young age can be overwhelming, but not to worry. College is a great place to figure out who you are and what you want to do with your life.

I would strongly encourage my high school self to start looking into colleges earlier than senior year. I feel that now as a college freshman I have a stronger idea of what I really am looking for in a school and wished that I had looked even further into schools when I was researching them and applying. I feel like I made the transition from high school to college well and even though I am only a half hour away from home, I can function just fine on my own. But I do also wish I had applied to a few more scholarships as a senior too when I had the free time.

Talking to myself as high school senior, I would tell myself to relax. Specifically, I would say, "There's no need to stress, you are going to be ok at whichever college you end up." I would encourage myself to be confident in my identity. For making the transition, I would gently sit myself down, look myself in the eyes, and give some realistic advice. "Join academic groups," I'd tell myself, knowing my nerd-ish tendencies. "Continue exercising, even on your own." But above all, I'd say, "Honey, get involved! Try different activities and join on-campus groups that you are interested in. Don't worry, there's a plethora of options to choose from, and they are great ways to make friends. And sit with people at dinner you don't really know. "Don't expect your rommate to be your best friend. Be bold, but keep in touch with friends from home. Remember to call Mom back every once in a while. Don't date the first boy you meet. And keep God first in your life-- He helps out with everything!" I'd end the conversation with checking out-- again!-- campuses on Google Earth.

Know that iswill be hard and you will be pushed to the extremes of yourself, but I promise it is so worth it!

If I had the ability to go back and tell myself what I know now about college I would warn myself about roommates, and chemistry. I decided to room with my best friend from high school and it was a huge mistake. People told me to reconsider, but I think I would have to hear it from myself to truly believe it. I wish I would have known what a disaster it would have been to room with my friend, because now our friendship is barely in existence. I would also have liked to have known how hard chemistry class was going to be. Math and physical sciences were never my strong point and I wish I would have taken it in high school to better prepare myself for it in college. I would tell myself these things before I came to college and hopefully it would have made my college experince a better one then it has been thus far.

I work with the admissions office with my school and I get questions like that a lot when I'm with prospective students and their parents. For me, it's about the community. Academics are important so I only choose to look at schools that had a great program for my major. But there are a lot of really great schools out there. I choose my school because of its community, the fact that there is a sense of community. We're not just robots going to different classes. We're a diverse group of people who are striving to learn and like having fun. I have a blast with my group of friends but everyone is very welcoming at this school. We smile at people we don't know as we walk by, we have our groups of friends but we aren't exclusive. Anyone can go to a great academic school but if that sense of community isn't there, you end up only enjoying yourself half the time. Schools can have fancy websites and nice literature to attract students to its school but it cannot fake community. It's something you sense on the campus.

Work hard in school to prepare yourself for college. It will pay off.

I would look back and tell myself to do all of my work right when I get it. You should not procrastinate at all. I would also tell myself to never take the easy way out and just get by in class, I would do what will get you the best possible grade that you can earn.

I would first tell myself to be more patient with the college search process, because I think I rushed into making a decision about college without looking at enough other options. I would go on a lot more college visits, even those that seemed outside of my "comfort zone", and I would talk to more current college students about their experiences at their respective schools. The second piece of advice I would give myself would be to be much more outgoing during the first few weeks of school. I wish I would have branched out more from the people I met right away, and I wish I would have gotten involved on more activities on campus. I think this would have given me a lot more social outlets than I currently have. I would finally tell myself to try not to get stressed out about schoolwork right away because everything gets finished and works itself out. Hard work always pays off!

I would tell myself that college is a time in my personal future where I am going to grow the most. Everything that I thought I knew about myself and life, isn't exactly true. I would tell myself that I am going to grow in ways I cannot even imagine, learn things I didn't know existed, and make some of the best friends of my life. I will realize that I am smart, beautiful, and important in my own skin, and that I am here to make a difference in the world. I will love college, and all it has to offer. I would also explain that it is important to not take any of it for granted, to actually study hard and want to learn, because it is in fact an investment, and probably the best one I can make. I will assure myself that I will love the experience, and that it will be some of the best years of my life, filled with study abroad to new places and amazing experiences. I would tell myself to get excited!

Well, to be honest, I didn't work really hard my senior year of high school. I had all my required credits done so I took easy classes to end my high school career. That didn't really help my transition to college because you have to work hard in college. I would definately have challenged myself more my senior year if I knew how tough it is to maintain a good G.P.A in college. Taking it easy my senior year wasn't the right path and if I could do it again, I would have challenged myself more to prepare myself for Bethel University.

If I could go back in time I would take advantage of opportunities such as pseo (post secondary education option) and Advanced Placement courses which is pretty much free money. I would also retaken my ACT, so that I could recieve more financial aid. Mostly I would really search for a college that I felt that fit me the best, although I like my college I'm not sure if there are schools that are better fitting because I did not do my research.

Don't take your hardest classes your first semester. Think more about what major you want to do.

I would tell myself about how much work college is. It's not just an easy ride like some people think it is, and its not all fun and games. It is a lot of studyding and working hard to succeed in class. I would also tell myself how important it is to find good quality friends and to surround yourself with people who can support you.

Stop worrying Steph! Everything always works out, even if it's not the way you planned it. Don't worry about the adjustment. Everyone around you will be in the very same situation. Relax, and be yourself. Enjoy the people around you for you won't be living among friends like that forever. There will be times you will feel so swamped you won't think everything will get done. But it will. You have an excellent work ethic and dedication. Yes, the transition away from your family isn't easy. Their lives do go on without you. Just remember to keep in close contact with them and enjoy every moment you do get to spend with them. You will make great memories in college; don't hesitate to make them.

to be open, give everything a chance, and live it up

I would tell myself to be sure to socialize more. Presently, I get so caught up in my work (both school, job, and theatre related) that I forget what the other part of going to college is--to make friends that will support me. I would also tell myself to learn how to clean my room. I am a rather messy person, and sometimes my roommates get angry with me for leaving my things strewn about. Another thing I would tell myself, is to not discount my own abilities. I wish that I had tried some of the things I am doing now, sooner. Things like seeking different summer employment, stepping out in faith, learning more, and trying more new things.

Get involved with the people and groups on campus: college is social education as well as academic. Get your work done, but don't become a recluse; interacting with other people is important. Take classes you're interested in and don't feel pressured to know your major and every class you're going to take on the first day of classes. You have time to decide. Use the resources available to you. One of the most important things to do is to never give up, even when it seems like nothing is going right. Find some good friends who can help you through it. Above all, have a good time while learning all you can.

Megan, really make a committment to studying now because it will make a big difference for college. They actually EXPECT you to read the assignments. LOL! Your outgoingness and friendly personality will be a big asset in college, so don't forget to always include everyone around you. The more you continue to be open to others, the better off you will be, because it really is helpful for making friends. You make need to work on learning to make your bed and clean your room. This will be helpful to your roommate, who just may be a neat freak! Stay cool and be yourself! Megan

Don't take any part of senior year of high school for granted. Cherish every moment of it, but realize the best is yet to come. Be excited about the transistion that will be made in the upcoming months. College is one of the best points in a person's life that will ever come around. Pick a college that you feel is the best for you, and what you will be most comfortable with in the next four years. Don't worry about the money or the cost, because a college education is the best investment you will never make and will all be worth it in the end. Don't feel pressure to pick a major or decide what your future career will entail. You have time to decide and everything will all work out. God will show you what He has made you to do in your life. Work hard, but also put in enough time into relationships because the people around you need you, and you need them. Overall, have fun, work hard to succeed and love the life that you lead!

I would say try to stay away from expectations. Everyone has a different experience and I think it is best to prepare your self by coming in with an open mind and willing attitude. Be ready to stick things out if they get hard because there will be moments of difficulty. Again some people have more than others. Also, meet people. It may take some sifting to find people you fit with. You're best friends aremost likely not going to be the first people you meet. They might be but you also might not find them until the end of the year. So just stick with and don't be discouraged regardless of what you see around you. There are other people in your same boat. So just asorb every moment you can and have fun!

I would tell myself that my life is going to change so much by growing spiritually in Christ, mentally by being at a greatly appreciated academic university and lastly how Bethel is going to shape my life in so many different ways. I would let myself be aware of the people I would meet at college, and the friends that I would make are going to be great friends of mine in the future, even after college, and to finish no matter how much my freshman powder puff team practices, we'll most likely still come in last. Most important, I would let myself know to be myself, no matter who comes into my life. To be the honest, outgoing, and the spunky person that I am, oh and to not procrastinate...on anything!

The advice that I would give myself would be not to rule on the side of comfort. Go out of your comfort zone to get to know other people and experience things that you can't find anywhere else but college. Find a core group of friends who have the same values and interests as you. If you have a good core group of friends you will never be without someone to hang out with. Another piece of advice I would give myself is to get organized right away and learn how to manage my time before going to college. College isn't necessarily harder than high school, it's just more work. So if you are organized and know when you do and don't have time to hang out, you can get through all the homework with ease. One last thing, don't take any moment for granted, in college you will have some of the best experiences of your life. So soak it up and don't live with any regrets.

Well if i were to go back in time to my senior year i would suggest taking more and as many AP classes as possible. They are worth in terms of scholarship opportunities, credits wise, and it makes the transitition that much easier. Another thing i wish i would have done was looking into more schools. I only applied to Bethel and i am hapy with my descision because i love it here and can't see my self anywhere else but i just wish i would have explored my option if it only would have been to financial reasons. And just have fun this is the one time in your life where you will be on your own for the most part. Take advantage of the many opportunities college life throws at you.

I would tell myself to seek out ways to get involved. Looking back on my freshman year in college, I realize I did not mesh myself into the campus community right away, and I wish I had. Meeting people, having structured organizations to plug into, and finding niches in the school to call my own were the best ways I began to think of myself as a Bethel student. I simply wish I had been brave and knowledgeable enough to realize how easy and rewarding it is to get involve. I would also advise myself to not worry about what other people think about me. It is very easy as a new student to be overly concerned with making a good impression, but it often leads to acting pretentious or simply out of one's character. I think these two items of advice would have made my freshman year more enjoyable and rewarding.

Choose a school that aligns with your morals and beliefs, at least for the first year or two. It is very important to be in an atmosphere that can enhance your morals and allow you to mature in that way. It is also very necessary to prioritize what is important to you in a school and in an education. If you hold sports over academics, or if you hold a certain focus of study higher than extra-curriculars, it is necessary to find a school that caters to your needs. I have found especially that living in a community with that possess some of the same religious beliefs as I do, is extremely important. Overall, choose a school that fits your needs and desires; find a place that you feel most comfortable at, and are excited about.

College is a game, and everyone's game looks different. Some people prefer to play battleship, strategically fighting to be the best, to take others down. Others view college as monopoly, collecting as much information as possible for an end goal of success. For others, college is a game of clue, of asking questions to figure out where to be when with who, enjoying all the moves in the process. College can be daunting, entering into an educational structure with people of different thought processes, financial capabilities, and enjoyments. Instead of being frightened of joining into others games or of changing your own game plan, throw in your dice and see where you land. You have something to offer, and you have something to take. Both of these are ok. Do not be scared to share your expertise while also learning from those around you. Your life is about to be altered, possibly in ways you cannot comprehend right now. What you expect may not come to be. However, do not let this prevent you from doing your best... and having some fun times along the way.

Going from high school to college is a big transition. Make sure to keep your priorities. First of all keep God number one, and find a solid church so you will have fellow believers who will support you in all areas. It is important to find a solid group of friends who will keep you accountable to your morals and have fun with you on this journey. Get involved on campus, join a student group and find an area you can be in a leadership position. The course load is much different than high school, but work hard you can do it. Be sure to make use of the teaching assistants and always attend your professors office hours. You will do better on the tests if you know the professor because you will understand how they think. Study with people in your classes, if you can teach the material to someone else then you know it yourself. Remember college is a unique time of life where you are able to be with friends and take control of your life. Make the most of your college years, you are blessed to have this opportunity.

In all honesty, I would have told myself to work harder. I believe that I neglected the development of some very important skills while I was in high school. I took no PSEO classes and chose not to take the AP tests when the spring semester came around. I sort of strolled my way through my last year of high school; and though I do not regret where I am at now, I do wish that I would have better prepared myself for higher education. However, the ability to go back in time and talk to myself is either not yet known or an absurdity. So the question I have just answered is rather irrelevant, unless of course I examine the way I am living my life currently and see whether there is a better way to live right now.

I would ask my-college-self if their is anything that i would change. I would reply to my-highschool-self and say, "There is nothing that i would change, it is all a learning process."