Bethune-Cookman University Top Questions

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

Danielle

If I could go back in time when I was a senior in high school there are so many things that I would have changed. For example, I would tell myself to make and get all of my work done ahead of time. There have been many times when I waited till the last minute to complete assignments. Although my teacher let me turn it in late or I made the deadline, I wouldnt advise doing that anymore. It's best to do it right when the teacher assigns the work. Another thing I would change is how I look at people and there actions. You can't always judge someone off of there first impression. You have to further get to know someone before you can make an assumption on them as a person. Lastly, I would watch what I eat. There have been plenty of times where I ate so much and so often that I would gain alot. I would advise my high school self to watch my weight, how I treat people and also make sure that assignments get done in a timely manner.

Kenia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior I would definitely tell myself to inform myself about the options I have as to what educational path to go. I would tell myself this because I always planned and wanted to go start to a university right after high school and I ended up not going, the main reason being transportation. I didn’t have a car and didn’t know how to drive. I really felt disappointed at that time so I looked for a job, started working and saved money to buy myself a little secondhand car and started going to college in the town I live. It was going to be easier for me to go to school and work in the same town. Starting college I was glad that I was finally starting school and I know now that I can transfer to a university once I am ready. If it was possible to go back in time I would tell myself to search, to ask about what different schools have to offer and decide what path if the best for me at that time.

Elizabeth

The best advice I could give to myself, or anyone for that matter, would be to continue in school and just go for it! Don’t give up on your dreams, no matter what life throws at you. It is not the end of the world, and going back to get your education 15 years after high school is more challenging than you could ever imagine. Live your life to the fullest while you are young! Get the full college experience; meet new people, experience different cultures. Once you have children of your own, your life changes and the focus will be on them and not you.

Ryan

Never procrastinate or else you'll be looking at F's on your transcripts. Don't ever waste your money if you're not going to put in the time to be successful.

Taylor

I would advise myself to be more focus on the school aspect and not the social. I also so have made the mistake of letting other influence me. My first semester I was not as focus as I should of been I relied on old high school habits to get me by and thats exactly what they did just get me by but this year I am going to exceed my expectations and a chieve a GPA of a 3.3 or higher and get involved with more activities. Last year I was trying to find where I fit in and I have found it so I look forward to this school and making a difference.

Kezia

Hey girl, calm down. You’re stressing over acne and clothes, but I’m telling you-you’re going to turn 19 and those zits will just disappear. And those clothes? They never mattered. People love you for who you are so build a personality not a wardrobe. That energy has better places to be, like in that math book practicing for your dual credit classes. Statistics, pre-calculus, and college algebra are worth it or you'll just have to retake them. If you have time to redo it, you have time to do it right the first time. And it’s expensive. Start applying for scholarships-you’ll need all the help you can get. But also please try harder in Spanish-it’s more important to be bilingual than you can imagine. It’s not just something to put on your record, it’s a culture, a scholarship, a job opportunity, and a special person. If only you knew the words to tell him. So forget about the outfits and the pimples this is your future and its happening now. Oh, and Kezia? Stay home for another year-it’s worth the wait I promise.

jared

I would tell myself to pursue college while i was in high school and not when i was almost a year out.

Candice

I would tell myself to buckle down more because by slacking off and not really going after the opportunities that I could have I had to pay more money out of pocket for college, during my senior year of high school I didn't fill out any scholarship forms and now I regret that.

shannon

I would tell my self to do alot better and gain better study habits. To apply myself and do everything that is asked of me because in the end it will help me. I would have told my self to take the Sat more than once and to actually study for it.

Diva

I would've made more of an effort of getting a job during my senior year. I would've helped payed off my college finances. Also, I would've applied to more scholarships and studied harder for the SAT and ACT. Overrall, I don't regret not accomplishing each of my goals during my senior year. I am aware that it was a learning experience, which has led me to become a more determined young adult.

Carlos

If I had to go back in time to my past self, i would tell him that the first year is always the hardest one because a huge wave of responsibilities will sweep you off your feet and will give you a big bruise on the head, as to remind you that life starts now. College will give you8 the best idea of what life will be like as an adult, because it will provide you with experiences that only adults go through; such as paying the rent for an apartment along with all the bills that come every month. However, it will give you a smooth transition into young adulthood by providing you with friends and great role models that will guide you towards success.

Anthony

To save up money for college, more than i did.

Keisha

I would tell myself to apply for as much scholarships during my senior year as possible. I would tell myself to start looking at different colleges my freshman year to get an idea of what college I would like to attend. Start taking college entrance exams like the SAT and ACT early to improve my chances of getting a higher score. I would also encourage myself to weigh all of my options carefully when choosing a college. I would let myself know that you don't have to physically go to a college campus to get an education; you can take online courses. I would also let myself know that networking and community service are necessities when it comes to college.

Jutesha

The advice I would give my self would be to work a little hard in class and make the stright A's, join more things like clubs so I wouldnt be on the computer right now looking up scholarships for my self they would just basically be handed to me.

Daniel

If I had the ability to go back and time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would give myself a great amount of advice. At 18 we havent been exposed to the real world yet, we are still young and having fun is still on our mind. There are ways to have fun but also ways to be serious. Some advice would be, save your money, books are expensivce, classes are expensive. Dont worry about what others will think of you, what matters is what makes you happy and the people you love around you. Have fun but not to much fun. Dont sweat the small stuff, but use your head. Make sure you pass every class, graduating on time will become very important as you want to one day provide for a family, even yourself. Fashionabe cars, clothes, electronics, dont mean anything in the real world. Be comfortable, meet new people, explore different careers, there is so much to do and become in this world, explore every option, party but be smart. Start at a community college and save tons of money, as long as you transfer and get a degree.

carvin

the advice that I would give myself is try to be yourself and don't try to be something your not and make as many friends as you can and do well and don't get caught up in all thr hype just do you.

Tykwan

SAVE SOME MONEY!!!!!!! Be yourself! Be confident! Keep your head up! And do not be a follower!!!!

carvin

they advice that I would give myself is just be yourself and dont try to be something your not just to impress people just to be their friend its not worth it.

mary

college is a time of growth. it is a time in which the unexpected meets challenge and extraordinary ability. it is not a time to encompass in social activities more than academics. it is a time to encourage, mentor,breathe, live, and allow for flexibility. it is a time to become more self-involved, to become a better individual than before. college is about responsibility, from health to study habits. understanding yourself and accepting things you cannot change are key during this critical period. you will pushed beyond your natural talent and abilities, once you grasp hold to hope, there is no looking back. there is only progression, and once you have achieved your level of success, you will know it.

Jordan

When I was in high school and knowing what I know now; I would have studied much harder to achieve more scholarship to support my education.

Caitlyn

When I was a highschool senior, I was pretty clueless about the process of going to college. I assumed it would be just like highschool and, obviously, I was wrong. I would start off by telling myself that paying attention and studing is key to success in college. In highschool you can recieve high grades without much effort but that doesn't install in you good study skill. I was used to getting straight A's in highschool and was shocked and dissapointed in myself for earning a B in Algebra. I would tell myself to calm down and do not expect to get perfect grades all the time. I would also warn myself about the high cost of tuition, books, and supplies. I would encourage myself to get a job sooner to raise more money, apply for more scholarships, and browse online for used books. There is a long list of advice that I could have given myself if I went back in time but this is enough to get me started.

jade

Jade, you are a great person and you have achieved alot. Knowing what i know about the future though, if there was anything i could tell you it would be don't take time off from school. Soon as you graduate from high school start summer classes in college and don't stop! The transition is going to be a lot harder if you take a break and you will forget how to study, write , understand math and use your resources. Eventually, you will catch up to where you need to be, but your g.p.a. won't be as good as you are capable of and it will be a lot harder for you. If you continue school after you graduate high school you will be at your prime of retaining information, you won't be behind in life, and you won't have any regrets. Trust me!

alexandra

To apply for more scholarships and do not take a loan

Chelsea

If I could go back and tell my highschool self advice, I would tell myself to relax. Granted, college isn't something to be taken lightly, but you're not going to succeed if you don't relax and not stress yourself out. I 've learned that I can't accomplish everything I set out to do in one day, one week, or one month. If I take what I need to do in strides, I know that I will be able to accomplish what I know I need to and want to.

derishawn

i wish i had the time to stay focus and study more because now i have to be indepent, on my own trying to get more knowledge and take care of myself.

Miranda

If I could go back, I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships. After recieving a large scholarship that went towards obtaining my associates degree, I gave up on sifting through the numerous scholarships, and settled with what I had. I had no idea what a difference it would make in earning money in advance to go towards my masters degree. I felt that at the time I had done enough with one scholarship, but I am now realizing that it takes more then one scholarship to pay for college. Now that I have my educational path set, the idea of graduate school, and it's expenses are weighing heavily on my mind. Now I am determined to apply myself even more in order to find more scholarships to make it easier on my family. If I could go back to my high school self, I would shake her firmly by the shoulders and tell her that doing the bare minimus is not enough, you should always excel, and go above and beyond.

Kadisha

If I could go back in time as a senior, knowing what I know now about college, I would tell myself stay focussed. Do not put college on hold go straight to college after high school. I would also tell myself to always make sure to keep my grades up and try to apply for as many scholarships as possible. I would let myself know that college isn't cheap at all. I would make myself aware of the amount of money an average person makes with a degree versus an average person without a degree. I would tell myself to set a goal and stick to it to the best of my abilities. I would tell myself that it takes you forever to pay off student loans. I would also tell myself to stay at home as long as you can. Living on your own is not all it's cracked up to be, even as a college student. I would tell myself to pick a major that you actually like and stick with it. I would also tell myself that without a degree or some type of trade it's very hard to get a good paying job.

Wilvern

The advice I would give myself as a high school senior would be to discipline and devote myself to the academics. I would also tell myself to prioritize my time for those things that are most academically benefitting. Also, focused on having fun while learning the material in class because it allows the lectures and lessons to be more memorable.

tonisha

I would tell my self to stay focused on God. When you come to college it's not about anyone else but you. Never depend on others to do what you have to do. Also that college is hard work so it is time to grow up and get your mid focused on your future.

Benjale

College is very important, and it is one of the most important decisions that you will make as a young adult. Please take your education serious, and take advantage of life opportunities that will present itself throughout your matriculation in college.

Manuel

I would tell myself to continue what I've been doing, but to have a better handle on my timing. Studying shouldn't be that difficult, but it's best to focus on the multiple choice and essay questions equally. Aside from that, it should be mostly the same as AP classes.

Aleshia

The advice I would give myself is to study more. My first two years of college, all I wanted to do was party and have fun. I loved the fact that I was away from my mom. I come from a very sheltered family and college was my opportunity to get away a discover/find out who I was as a person. My first two years of college was no that great. I really wished I would have studied more and maybe my final gpa would have been higher. Luckily for me, I puylled myself together and got my prioroites right. I would als tell myself not to be so trusting of people. I was nice and friendly to anyone and everyone i meet. Now that i am older I understand some people use you and mislead you. I thank God for my college experience and everything thst cam along with it. without college i would not know who I am as a person and what I could or could not handle.

DesMond

If I went back in time to my senior year of high school, I will tell myself that playtime is over (trust me I'm you). College is the real thing. Although your year has just started i advise you to get it all in place now so you won't regret it later.

gevette

I feel that I made the transition well when I left for college. The one thing that I wish I would have done was to be better prepared when it came to choices when it came to roommates. I attempted to get one of my high school friends as a rommate and she requested me as well. When the room assignments were given we both received someone that we were not familiar with. Although I consider myself a true people person, my roommate and I were total opposites. When I studied, she partied, when I slept she roamed the halls and caused trouble. Eventually she went home and chose to not return, I did not allow her actions to blurr my focus. I was still able to maintain my GPA and next semester I am residing in the honors dorm and I've already chosen my roommate. Some who has the same focus and drive and I have. Despite the food situation, I'm sure that this year will be tally different and bring only good things for me.

Sven

I would tell myself as a senior in high school to focus more on academics than just sports and friends. I would also tell him to be prepared to have trouble getting money for books and classes. The classes are as small as high school classes but some teachers don't really care about some of the students that all they want is a paycheck so some teachers won't really help you out.

Rashaun

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior t he first thing I would tell mself and do is make better of my study habits. I will make a study plan for all my classes including band. I would first schedule the times of each class that I would study. Starting with the easiest to the hardest class. I would inlcude the hardest class last because it will give me mor time to study on the subject. I would start drafting homework a fter each class or while I'm in that class. I would use all my study time more wisely than waiting until the night before testing to study. I will gradually study a little each day starting with a little at a time study . With this method I'm sure that my grades will turn out to be better.

DOMONIQUE

FILL OUT MORE SCHOLARSHIPS BECAUSE COLLEGE IS A LOT OF MONEY.

Anna

Out of my college experience has come more of an understanding of other people. I may not know all of people around me personally, but what I have learned is that we are more alike than I would have guessed a couple years ago. I have met more people from different backgrounds in college, than I ever did at my smaller high school. I have gotten to see their points of view and their feelings on different subjects. Since in college we are to take responsibility for our own education, I see more people getting involved in classes and group activities. I have learned that everyone wants to be heard and everyone has feelings, and reasons for doing things, and being who we are. We are all driven to strive for success and a bright and promising future for different reasons. The point is though, we all have a reason. We aren't there to bring each other down or to show off what we can do. We are in college to find out what we want to do, who we are, and to see just what we can accomplish. No matter what drives us, we have this in common.

Shayla

My college experience has taught me to be true to myself, because you meet so many new people with different personalities and it can sometimes overwhelm a person and they begin to conforming to other people's ways. It has been valuble to attend because I am getting an education and bettering myself instead of just staying at home after graduation like so many of my high school classmates are doing.

Samantha

I've gained so much from my college experience. I have life long friendships, skills and tools that I need to be successful and last but not least, I became an responsible adult. The reason I feel my school is so valuable to attend becasue I feel that it is truly unique. It's Unique because, it's full of talented and creative individuals who are more than willing to succeed. I've learned to never give up and to take on anything that comes in my path. Also, I learned to handle all responsibility. Attending Bethune gave me another look on life, a look that made me proud to be a Wildcat. Like VIP only and membership is Exclusive. This scholarship should be mine, I’ve earned it a thousand times over. While the competition was at party, I was in my room sober. Earning this scholarship would bring me much joy. When it comes to uniqueness, Bethune-Cookman University is the Real McCoy. Thank you.

Gevette

The one thing that I forgot to mention about my journey at Bethune Cookman University was about the historical journey I have experienced. I've attended a predominately hispanic school all of my life, and other than in my household and the few lessons taught during Black History Month, I knew very little about my heritage. When I signed up for the college tour while visiting universities before I made my decision, I was very intrigued as to how detailed the tour explained how the college came into existance by the vision of Mary Mcleod Bethune. As my freshman year started I was further excitied by the legacy she started and how they try so very hard at Bethune Cookman to keep her memory alive, not just in my African American studies class but also throughout the campus. There are memorials throughout the campus reminding us to fight for our rights, stand up to adversity, keep our heads high and to continually strive for the education we deserve. If I've learned this much in my first year at Bethune Cookman, I can't wait to see what the future years have in store for me.

Chiquita

I have recieved so much knowledge and understanding from my college experience. I believe i've learned the ropes in order to succeed after college. Ive learned how to network with my fellow classmates, in order to understand the lessons, and in order to complete my assignments on time and correctly at all times. Ive met so many great people, and have made some true lifelong friends. My professors and other faculty members contribute to my college expeirence as well, because they have given me the tools and skills to stand on my own two feet, once i graduate. Also, Ive learned so much about my major, that it makes me excited to graduate and actually start helping people as much as I possibly can. I am very grateful for what I have gained from my college experience.

Patrina

In the one year I've been in college, I find it to be the most extraordinary experience. Meeting new people, journey off to somewhere new and learning more than what my high school can offer. I take in everything and treasure the moment of my college experience.

Hugo

The skill I have gotten out of my college experience is a greater sense of discipline for the future in my adult life. I believe college is huge step into helping me succeed as an adult in the real world and the competitive work place. I value this as a mature young adult, because being displined and responsible builds to my character and integrity that people look for to seperate me as an individual. Hard work and discipline always gets the job done, and in my major, accounting, getting the job done correctly and efficiently is key to completeing your task. I will never regret attending college, because it will only benefit me in the long run.

Rekeeta

Transfering from a multiracial university to a bcu i have gotten that culture that was only briefly touched on at my previous college. Being around people that is all the same race was valuable to me because in the media view we are badly represented and to see everyone trying to better themselves is inspiring. Also to have proffessors that can relate to experiences that i have been through instead of going of what they saw in movies, or have read in books. It is whole other demension of learning that i have gained being here that i didn't get where i was at previously,and that the four years i am here.

Sharita

i have not yet attend Bethune Cookman.

Annie

I am very blesssed to be a part of the Bethune Cookman family. The staff is very supportive. The instuctors are very helpful and they will see that you get the best from your experience

Kalyn

During my college experience I have gotten the chance to learn how to be more independent and how to manage my time. I consider this valuable because when your in college you have to do alot of independent studying and work. However, you can only achieve this goal if you learn how to manage your time. Time management determines how you get things done, how things look, and what you learn. If you always wait until the last minute to finish work or study for a exam or test, it becomes harder to learn the material because all your doin is memorizing the answers you need to pass. I consider the time managment skill to be the most important. There is a time to have fun and a time to work, the goal is to balance the two.

Rebecca

My college experience thus far has taught me many things. I have learned to enjoy life while it lasts. After my first semester I realized that I had to develop better study habits and have learned to stop procrastinating and to do important things first. Time management has been one of the most valuable things that I have learned. When posed with the question "what have you gotten out of your college experience and why has it been valuable to attend", most people would explain what they have learned in their classes and how they have chosen a major and have everything figured out. Not being "most" people, I have not chosen a specific major yet, I do not have everything figured out and I do not have a dream career. I learned that I do not want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine or communications. I learned that I want to hold a position of power someday and I learned enough about myself to know that I have what it takes to achieve my dreams. This, amoung other things is what I have gotten out of my college experience so far.

Davian

na