Bethel University-Saint Paul Top Questions

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

Amalia

Study harder! Work hard and study in college more, it will pay off!

kalea

Listen to what people tell you, I know you think that college will be just like High School is but it's not. You will have to work hard and focus on what is really important. This is going to be the rest of your life so work hard, I'm not saying you can't have fun. Just remember that their is a time and place for fun as well as a time and place for education and this is where you should focus on the education aspect. Your education here will determine the rest of your life and the jobs that you could get. So please do us both a favor and pay attention, and do your absolute best.

JennaRose

I would tell myself that I was going to be a writer, and that I should sit down every morning and write, so that by this time, I'd have a lot more material and experience. I'd tell myself to work a little harder on my math when in high school, so it wouldn't be so difficult in college. All in all, I have very few regrets about how I made the transition from high school to college. I went to a community college before attending Bethel, so I got some college credit and experience before moving on to a bigger university.

Kayla

I would tell myself that college is completely what you make of it. If you go in with a positive attitude and open to discover new things, you will thrive. If you stay in a comfortable little bubble that is easier, you won't learn as much and will waste some of your time in college. Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity at Bethel that everyone should experience. At the same time, coming back from studying abroad will be hard- another adjustment. College isn't the real world so don't get sucked into it and believe that it is all that is out there for you. Work hard and study hard because these are the only four years of your life that you will have to learn and discover who you are. It's going to be easy to get caught up in all the activities and extra-curriculars, but only do what you truly want to do. Bethel provides a unique experience for questioning and strengthening your faith as well as forming friendships that will never end.

Hillary

College is a time to never forget. Getting actively involved is one of the most important things to do. Stay on top of your school work, and ask for help when you need it. Don't let the acedemic workload get to the best of you. College is a time to begin understanding your independance and a time to expolore who you want to be, without doing it in the wrong way. Make friends, that is one of the most important things. Friends are the ones that help you day by day to get through life. Make a connection with your teachers, most of them want to help you and watch you succeed. Be faithful to yourself and know how to prioritize your time. College is a gift that not everyone gets to experience. You need to make the most of it and follow your heart. Don't let peer pressure get the best of you. Make sure to hold to your values. College is a great way to further your walk in life, and it is an experience that you will not get again. Be greatful and do your best, you never know what y our future will bring.

Cody

I would say to myself, don't worry as much. The future is a mystery, but it will all work out for the better. Whether you choose to live at home or at school, whether you choose to study pharmaceuticals or study religion, or whether you even choose to attend Bethel or an out-of-state school, God will be with you the entire time. Too much stress is put into these thoughts lately, when in the end the only way to get past them is to decide on a course of action and stick with it. My future self to my past self, I am the way I am today, though, only because I felt those feelings and had those thoughts run through my mind. Be who you are, for everything WILL work out in the end. Bring less clothing though, you will have plenty, and as of now there is a little bit of trouble finding where to store everything.

Samuel

Trust in God. You may not know where you want to go or what you want to do with your life, but God will lead you in the right direction. He will not let you wander around aimlessly, wasting money and pursuing the wrong degree. As it says in Matthew 6:34, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Give your cares and concerns to God and He will see you through, guiding your every decision.

Judith

Now's your chance to get out and define who you are. Take it. Go face your fears, your doubts and your worries, but dont do it alone. You're about to join a commnity where you will be challenged and supported so let your guard down and allow God to change your life. Contrary to what you've heard, you don't have to change the world to make a difference. Just find something your passionate about and persue it whole heartedly. Trust God with the rest, and he will use you in ways you can't even imagine.

Karen

I know you're scared about college. But don't worry, it's not as scary as you think, it's only scary because it's all going to be new to you. You'll adjust quickly and makes many friends. You'll relationship with God will grow tremendously if you keep putting full trust in Him. Yeah, general chemistry is going to be really tough on you, but your professor will help you access the resources you need to pass. Don't feel guilty about going to a private Christian school because your financial aid will be better than if you would have gone to a state school and you'll end up paying less to go there. Keep being your adventurous self and trying new things, you'll find out you really like soccer. And even if cleaning toilets doesn't sound fun, it'll pay for your education and the people you work with are so much fun. You'll learn that you love the feeling of being short. And that your curly hair is gorgeous, because both these things are exactly how God created you to be a beautiful woman of God.

Amy

Knowing what I do now, I would tell today's high school seniors to go to college with a mindset of advocacy. Being able to advocate for oneself is a skill that isn't really taught in today's high schools, but when students go to college they must be able to speak their mind and assertively confront issues head-on. In the classroom, students will face large class sizes and professors who may be relatively closed off to new perspectives. Students should never be afraid to voice their opinion or explain their perspective whether in a large group discussion or privately when meeting with an instructor regarding grades. Students must also be able to traverse the confusing paths of financial aid , degree requirements, and institutional policy as they try to achieve their potential in the world of higher education. When it comes to campus involvement, students may have to create proposals introducing new clubs or campaign for leadership positions in existing ones. No matter what area of college life one looks at, the skill of advocacy is critical to success and one that will make the transition from high school to college signficantly more meaningful.

Laura

Work hard and stay focused.

Isaac

I would tell myself not to worry so much. I would tell myself to really work hard to achieve my greatest potential--keep learning Spanish, don't give up on violin. And I would tell myself to enjoy the rest of highschool--after all, it's going to be done, and you'll never get it back. So don't spend ALL your time studying. Take some times to be with people, because when it's all over, you won't regret that you didn't spend more time learning calculus, you'll wish you had gotten to know people more; you'll wish you had been there for that friend who was really hurting.

Jessena

Be yourself. Head into college with confidence in your ability to succeed; you are enrolled in a college that wants you attending their school. Know what you believe and do not be afraid to state your beliefs and defend them if necessary. However, also be flexible and willing to change what you believe if you discover it?s wrong. You are a unique and valuable person, and your school wants you to stay distinct in order to add variety and dynamic to the school?s student body. Just be confident in the person you were created to be!

Brian

I would say that you should go to the college that feels right to you. Often times parents and peers will have an idea of where they want you to go, but ultimately, you aren't going to college for them. You are going to college to pursue an area of study that YOU love. Pursue what you love and give it everything that you have. Put yourself into what you love, and if you do your best, you will be rewarded. If you aren't sure what you want to do, don't be afraid to change your major or your minor. It is a lot easier to change your field of study while you are still in college than it is to change your mind after graduating and then having to get back into the learning state of mind again.

Peter

The most important thing in any transition is you. Especially when it comes to changing whole environments, which is what college is. You make it what it will be. The college or university you decide to go to can be the best in the world, and if you don't decide to involve yourself with not only the school's academic, social, and advocacy opportunities, but also the surrounding environment's opportunities it will not be a good situation. The school could be deficient in many ways, but life is more than just the institution you attend, and life's opportunities don't end with the arrival to a poor situation. There are always people to befriend, activities to do, knowledge to be discovered. Life is what you make it, as the saying goes, and this is no more true than now. College or University is but an auxillary source for you to draw upon, and whether or not you do or not is and will never be the fault of the school you attend if you attend school at all. The good life is not something to be attained, but lived. So live it.

Megan

If I could look in the mirror and find myself as a high school senior, I would give reassurance that being true to oneself will get her further and be more fulfilling than good grades, fun friends, cute clothes, and recognition. I?d encourage her not to shun anyone of the basis of differences, but embrace them, for friends are found in unexpected places. However, it?s important to hold tight to values, and stick to standards. Rejection is more admirable and respected than to lose oneself in detrimental choices. When loneliness sets in, remember those who love you. Value and cherish the support and love received from family and friends. Finally, be strong, knowing that taking the first step onto a University is scary, intimidating, exhilarating, liberating, and life-changing. It's ok to feel out of place, nervous, unsure, and doubtful, but never doubt your ability to succeed. Success is what you make it to be. Achieve one goal at a time, but never underestimate yourself, rather challenge yourself. Trust in the plans that you have, but be willing to explore new options. The plans God has for you are beyond your understanding?so take leaps of faith!

Will

I would tell myself that no matter what, stay focused and determined with your school work. Don't let your social life have such a hold on you that you begin to neglect the more important reason for being here: getting that degree and getting a good start to a career. From day 1, you need to make priorities about your life and stick with those priorities. Remember, its God first, school second, family and friends third and finally, yourself last. If your priorities fall out of whack and you start to mess up, fix it then! Don't let it stay that way, especially if you see yourself continuing to slip up. Finally, don't try and force yourself to fit in with your new peers. You just be yourself and then you'll easily be able to distinguish between who is a true friend and someone who's just there for the wrong reason.

Mitchell

I would tell myself to place more emphasis on homework and excellence. I am not talking about the stress of perfection, but just seeing all the little things as being important. I would also tell myself that service and relationships are what it is all about. Friendships and integrity are ideas that will guide my life forever and I need to foster these things when I am young so they become part of who I am. I would also remind myself that honesty and truth are important. These values are so missing in our world that even in the small issues, truth is important. Finally, I would tell myself, "Listen to your parents now." They have become very wise in my two years of college. As far as the transition to college, study, study, study, and turn in work, turn in work, turn in work. Get involved with some affinity group on campus. It helps incredibly. An instant family. Finally, love God and love people.

Chad

My advice to you, the student who wants to pick out the "right" college and make the most out of your college experience, is to take time to think about what is truly important to you. Your parents and friends may offer wonderful depths of insight into helping you make a choice, but the choice is solely your own and should be made for reasons deemed credible by you and only you. My advice to the parents comes into play here: YOU MAY OFFER ADVICE AND BE AN AID, BUT DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT COARSE YOUR SON OR DAUGHTER INTO CHOOSING THE SCHOOL YOU WANT THEM TO GO TO. But of course, this process cannot be done alone and may take frequent lengthy conversations with God. One important thing to remember about this decision is that it is never too late to change your mind. Feeling as though this is a set in stone decision may add unnecessary pressure. Most importantly, make the decision as to where you want to go and move on. Don't dwell on your choice, but become proactive instead. Get involved with your new school right away. You won't regret it!

Alyssa

Take you time in finding the right college. Tour as many as you possibly can because the enviroment the school gives off is the most helpful part of choosing the right school for you. Don't worry how much the school costs initially; most of the time private schools give away more grants and better financial aid packages. So, an expensive school might not be as expensive as you would first think. Parents, remember, this is your childs decision. Give them the freedom to make the decision they are most comfortable with.

Carolynn

If you want to really learn, be sure that you continue to study what you love on your own. I am a lit major, and I read more on my own than I do for class. I think if you want to know and study anything, you have to continue to fuel that learning on your own. Shcool should be about learning, and not the only place that you learn.

Michelle

Every college is different, as is every student in it. A "perfect fit," though definitely dependent on the programs and extracurricular activities that are offered, is not a guarantee. It is, however, entirely possible! The most helpful advice that anyone can give you, therefore, is that college is what you make it. Take the time to enjoy this unique time in your life in which you will be seeing the world through fresh eyes. Soak in the knowlege that's being lent to you by experts, and relish in the incredible friendships you will have the chance to build. Have fun, and allow yourself to be challenged and transformed into a dynamic adult!

Ashley

Visit the institutions and go with your gut.

Simon

Education is the key to progress in future of any generation; and therefore a lot of time has to be devout to lay a good foundation. The foundation has to start from getting a good college. Parents have to find colleges that are focused to what their children are looking forward to doing in future. The students have to realize that to flourish and prosper in future a good school has a great bearing. A good career depend on how much one has invested in it.

Tara

Students: Don't be afraid to take a risk and go some place that you would really enjoy. It is important to look at the morals of the university and what you want to get out of your college experience. Soak up the years, because they go far too fast! Parents: Don't be afraid to let your kid make a few mistakes. They will take with you the lessons and morals you have brought them up with. Your children will change a lot in college, but they are on the path to discovering who they truly are.

Calvin

Look at alumni participation rate as well as the academic prominence of the professors that teach at the University. Naturally price is a factor that should play a role, but only to an extent. Loans, grants and scholarships are always out there, ready and waiting for someone to apply for it. Bethel University, the school I attend, does not have a good alumni giving/participation rate, but it is something that we are making progress on. I am a part of a student committee that is trying to reel in more alumni involvement. The expertise of the professors and how they are looked at by their academic community is huge. Professors really do make the academic part of college, either for the better or for the worse. Choose carefully, and be open minded.

Brian

Visit all the schools, talk to students--especially juniors and seniors at the schools. Don't base your decision off of a campus tour.

Steven

School websites offer a lot of valuable information. Visit schools! Lots of schools. This gives you an opportunity to see the school, talk with students, see housing options available, etc. This is a big decision, and you need to take the time in thought and do the research necissary to make a choice you will never regret.

Vanessa

I would strongly suggest that you not consider a college or university until you have taken the time to physically visit it and see what it has to offer for yourself. Pamphelts and on-line tours just won't do your choice justice: when visiting, take the time to make appointments with professors who teach in your academic area of interest, talk to students who are pursuing your degree of interest, and right off the bat ask students what drew THEM to the school and see if their answers match up with your own gut feelings. To make the most out of your college experience, you should make as many aquaintances and friends as possible: you will be seeing your peers for at least four years and the bonds you make will not only get you through study groups and challenging classes, but will stay with you post-graduation and into your adult life. You should also plug into as many extra-curriculars as your schedule allows: these will help shape your talents and ambitions for when you graduate and will help to determine where your priorities and your heart truly lie.

Amanda

College tours are a must for finding the right college. Overnight stays at colleges are even better. Finding the right feel of a college was the most important thing for me in deciding which college to attend next to the academic credentials. I made sure that the professors in my intended field of study were "top notch." To make the most out of any situation especially your college experience you need to get out of your comfort zone and be open to meeting new people. To have the best college experience go beyond the people you are already acquainted with and get to know others you do not know. That is the best advice I can give. Social events hosted by the college are also great for meeting new people. I would not have been as happy with my choice of college without making the extra effort to make new acquaintences.

Lauren

College the most exciting time of your life? right? And the process of choosing the perfect school is horribly stressful! Don?t succumb to the stress and headaches that most do when choosing a school! It can be easy. Just be open to the many opportunities out there. Don?t choose a big school just because it sounds cool. Talk to someone who attends and see how well it is liked and why. Tour a campus and look at the programs offered. See what the community life is like and if it would be a nice fit. Make a list of important factors in a school like core values or campus location. Get help from family and friends and see what they think. Don?t be afraid to venture out and take a road trip to a school you?ve never seen or happened to find while searching online. Those headaches should be gone because figuring out where to go for school has just been made easy.

Sonja

It is important for parent's and students to speak with students that currently attend the school before deciding to attend there. They must find someone that will give an honest opinion rather than just trying to sell the school. This can be done in a coffee shop around the school or in the cafeteria. This is how to find out what the school is really like. It's also important to learn about the food on campus and the availability to get off of campus. Students need to take a break sometimes and this can be done by heading to the mall or to a movie. If it's not possible to get off campus then they will have to find a ride and this isn't easily done.

Katie

Look for a school that is in line with your values and is the right size, even if it means adding a little more in loans. College is an investment and some schools are worth the extra money

Tiffany

I would tell students to explore the college fully. I would also have students and parents do a fair amount of research before they make their choice. I know I applied to Bethel and one other school and had my heart set on Bethel, only to find that it wasn't as welcoming as I thought it was going to be. I would also advise parents to really consider talking through a lot of things with their children because I don't feel I was prepared properly by mine. To make the most out of your experience, don't get too stressed out over little things. Enjoy your time and explore where you are and the people who surround you because it is the only time in your life that you will be in this position. Make sure to get involved in things you love and not let others influence who you are and what you truly believe in. Have faith! You will find the people whom you connect most with eventually.

Kalie

DO not focus on a four year institution, more often than not it is a complete waste of money. In todays economic position, having a four year degree is like having a high school diploma ten years ago, it gets you no where. Techinical job are the way to go, little tuition costs for schooling and high starting wages, that's what people need, financial security.

Lyndsey

My advice to anyone looking for a college is to find a school that has good academics. But also allows you enough time to explore life outside of academia.

Lindsey

Find a place that not only most effectively grows you and prepares you academically, but in a variety of other ways as well. I was fortunate to recieve a social, spiritual, cultural, emotional, personal, relational education as well as an academic one.

Colleen

I would tell students to take it easy during their first semester. My first semester of college I was given a schedule with 18 credits, and I was so overwhelmed with homework and classes that it was very difficult to make friends, get sleep, or even chill out and enjoy being independent. I was very unhealthy and very depressed by the end of my first semester, and I nearly dropped out of college. So, my advice to new college students is this: in college, B is the new A. Take it easy, make friends, get used to college academics, and work hard during year #2.

Stephanie

Definately go to a college that upholds your standards. Look to see what kids do for fun. Once you are in college make sure to get adequate sleep! Trust me, even though alot of other students are not sleeping you definately should. Lack of sleep over an extended period of time makes you feel more depressed. Focus on your schoolwork first but allow time to hang out with friends.

Josh

Go with what feels right.

Brianna

get a head start and take the time needed to figure out the college that's right for you . do an overnight stay or sit in on a class if the school allows it. ask questions. do the research in finding the college becasue you'll be spending 4 years there so make the best of it

Kelley

Recognize what your son or daughter really want in a school: drinking, size, location, available programs, ect. You should also make sure their school fits their political and moral beliefs and standards, especially when it comes to private schools. They will need to get involved and make an effort, so make sure to encourage that. Starting college is definitely out of most peoples' comfort zone, make sure they branch out instead of secluding themselves. This will be easier for them to do if their college fits their beliefs correctly. Going to a liberal, secular school would be very unfit for a conservative Christian because there would not be very many people your son or daughter can relate to.

Rachel

Don't worry about money so much as finding the right school that fits your personality, beliefs, and academic rigor. Quality education in a comfortable education more important, I think, than anything else. Even if the school itself isn't ideal, having good professors can be very invaluable.

Renae

To students looking for the college of best fit, I would suggest you begin by figuring out what you're looking for. Think about what you value, what career direction you're headed in, and what you want out of your college experience. If you are unsure where your strengths and interests lie, my advice is to take a career assessment or two. Once you have a good grasp of what you're looking for, do your research. Get online and learn as much as you can about your options and which ones seem to offer what you're seeking. Talk to people as well. Some of your best information can come from students who are attending that college or are alumni. They have the inside scoop that you're not going to find on the college's website. The primary way to make the most of your college experience is to live on campus and involve yourself in the unique community of your university. To parents of college-bound children, my best advice is to be supportive and avoid leading your children toward a certain college. Knowing they made the decision empowers them (and ensures your future blamelessness).

Paul

At Bethel you need to look carefully at the majors, some are better than others. I am a computer science major and can vouch strongly for the Math, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Theology departments here at Bethel.

Kyle

Be sure to do your research and get information from people who actually went to that school preferably some who liked it and some who didn't. Also, if you're having secong thoughts about the school you're in, do be afraid to look into transfering to other schools. These are the best years of your life so you should make sure your hapy where you are.

Elizabeth

Make sure that the college you want to go to is close enough to home if you ever want to go home. Also look for a college that has a variety of programs so that you have the ability to change your major if you want to.

Hanne

Look for a college that will benefit you well in the long term. Don't choose a college solely based on a preferred major because those often change. Look for a college that will stretch and grow you, not just one that fits you where you are now.

Jose

Be open for the small schools, you need to be in a big school to have a good education. I think small private school have a lot to give and are very helpful also.

Rachel

Visit the college, take a look at the community and decide if it is a fit for you. You can always switch:)