Carlow University Top Questions

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

Amy

Looking back, I quickly think of several pieces of advice of which I'd supply myself. I think that primarly it is important to remember that this is a a timely, expensive process so a commitment needs to be made. I also would want to express the importance of college and suggest myself to attend several institutions. I'd also strongly encourage myself as a high school senior to work as hard as I could in high school, save as much money, develop helpful financial skills, and apply to as many scholarships as possible. Hard work goes a long way. So, as a final piece of advice I'd tell myself the same thing my father used to tell me all the time, "Don't be Stupid. Don't be lazy. And, don't ever give up." With that, I'd wish me the best of luck!

Jacquayla

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to choose Carlow University. I would tell myself to consider the realities that I see at the school. To consider that Carlow is a great school, but that because of the lack of diversity that I have come to crave, I would be forced to learn a lot about myself. That I would learn how to be tolerant of others and that I would grow as a person. That I would have the opportunity to see that there are people who just do not "get it." Who let insults and racist comments fly freely from their mouths. I would tell myself that I need to be surrounded by people like this now, as an undergraduate student because honestly, there ARE people in the world who think that way. I would tell myself that I needed practice dealing with this issue if I want to be succussful in the world. I would tell myself that this school would help me to become a well adjusted person because of my daily interactions with another race of women, with different ideas.

Catherine

There's an old adage that states: "What you save, you have, and what you don't save, you don't have." As time passes, more and more women and men of all ages are attending college to prepare themselves for the competitive workforce. Yet, as time passes, colleges and universities, especially private schools, are becoming increasingly expensive. As one who has changed my major multiple times and have finally found my niche after years of transitioning, I would've spent the initial years after high school working in the real world, job shadowing, and doing extensive research on career options rather than spending money "trying out" different majors. In retrospect, I should have spent more time investigating various career paths prior to jumping into the expensive and time-consuming college arena. Once I had some experience in the real world, THEN I should have attempted to pursue a particular major or two when my search was narrowed. I do not scoff at the idea of "taking a few years off" of school after high school graduation. I believe it to be the preferable route to declaring "undecided" as a major. This scholarship would be a tremendous blessing for me.

Carol

If I had the ability to go back in time and talk to myself during my senior year, I would tell myself: Be prepared for change. From experiencing college, I have come to realize that my lifestyle, my social life, and my school life have all changed dramatically. Since starting college I have gone through two roommates, gained new friends, lost friends, gotten a job, moved off campus, got engaged, and am currently registering to go to an entirely different college than what I started in because my first college discontinued my Spanish major. If I would have known then what I know now, I probably would have ran for the hills. These changes definitely threw me for a loop, but somehow I survived them. By surviving these events, I have become stronger as a person. Instead of being selfish and going back in time to try and change the future so I could have the perfect college experience, I would just tell myself to be prepared for everything that is about to come. Although getting past those obstacles was difficult, I wouldn’t change it at all because they have made me into the girl I am today.

Kelly

Being only a freshman in college at Carlow University I have already learned and experienced a great amount of things that are valuable. First and foremost, I have learned that bigger does not always mean better when it comes to an institution for higher education. I am currently receiving a very valuable education from a smaller institution and I am really learning what I need to for my major which is business and management. My college experience so far has been greatly appreciated. Having to pay for my education makes me all the more grateful to receive one. It is valuable to attend college because there are not many great jobs, if any, that you can have without one. It is also valuable because at this day in age more people in my generation need to be focused not just on how much money they can make, but how much they will be able to contribute to society in the future. The future will not be worth a lot when it comes to the value of the western civilization as a whole, which will be ironic if we keep up our "money hungry" attitudes.

Gabrielle

I have learned so many things while at Carlow University. It has enhanced my knowdledge, personal and communication skills along with learning for my future career. It has been valuable to attend because I love my university. It is outstanding and I feel as though I am receiving preparation for my future. I have great professors and have had great clinical experiences to invest in my learning and knowledge towards my future endevours.

Gabrielle

Growin up I was never a learner and never one interested in school. I always said that I would not attend college. My dreams were very small. Little did I know how large my hunger was to learn. Every new piece of information is a trinkit. At the end of highschool I was faced with no other option rather, than to apply to a college. I choice Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, Ma. I soon discovered that I wanted to change the lives of thousands with all the knowledge I accquired. It is a joy and a true pleasure to be able to improve your knowledge. I am delighted as a Human Services major and I desire more. I am applying for many scholarships because the state schools do not offer large Soial Science programs. I am in a desperate financial position and I desire to learn. My collge experience has expanded my mind and showed me that there is more to life than just living.

Ashley

I've only been in school for a month, but so far I have been exposed to so many positive people (students, teachers, mentors, co-workers etc.) that really care and try to help the students out in anyway they know how. If i ever need extra help in a class or even something as simple as getting my paper revised, all of our advisors and faculty makes themselves available when we need them. Little things like that really lift a heavy weight off of my back because college can be stressful sometimes, but I know with help, hard work, and dedication, I will be successful. Without a college education in our society today, it's almost impossible to qualify for an actual career. I want to be able to provide for myself and future family one day Without the proper training for my field, I would fail and a full college experience is what will teach me all I need to know--it will prepare me for the "real world" and ultimately my future. Thanks to Carlow University, I will be able to what I want to do with my life and so much more!

Eric

I've notice my college experience has been educational. As much I want this to be over an see myself walk in a big business with my degree in hand and ready to work a 100,000 plus salary. I want this college ride to be valuable to my destiny. See, when I first came here to Clark Atlanta University, I expected higher level education, but have gotten universal level of education. Even as you walk the halls of CAU, you can feel being apart of a family of sholars and winners. Winning is more valuable here then anything especially good grades or just feeling like a winner cause you have an opportunity of getting a chance to do something great in your lifetime . You'll never imagine going downward here at CAU, only a vision of persistency, determinaton, friendship, love, and panther pride. Its hard not loving your fellow peers here cause we all are on the winning team of dreaming. Watch not time go by, but watch as your life rise to the universal level of grade A quality education that'll soar you to uncharted areas you never expected. CAU, panther pride is definitely a valuble experience.

Erin

There are three things that I got out of my college experience. The first one is that you and you alone are responsible for your acedemic acheivement. The professors and other students are there at your disposal for your usage to gain more knowledge. Secondly, do not just take a class because other students said it was easy. What is easy for them might not be easy for you. Lastly, you have to remember that everyone in college is in the same boat as you are., this is a new experience for all. My four years at college made lasting impressions on me that I will have a hard time forgetting as well as friends that will last a lifetime. I understand who I am as a person and with the help I received, I am able to expand my knowledge and gain insight for my future endeavors.

Marissa

From my college experience, I have gained maturity, knowledge, and a sense of good time management. These skills are important to learn in life and by gaining them early in my life, I believe that I will have a better quality of life. I have gained maturity through my college experience because I was also attending my junior and senior year of high school as I was completing my two year A.S. degree. I had to mature enough to know what is of highest priority such as studying comes before hanging out with friends. I have gained further knowledge through the diverse classes that I have taken. Lastly, I have gained a good sense of time management due to having to balance high school and college classes and when to study for which class. As well as giving myself enough time to get between classes in a timely and orderly fashion.

Paula

My experience at college has opened my eyes to many things. I have become more independent and responsible since living in the residence halls. No one wakes me up, tells me when to study, or orders me to clean my room, so I am responsible for everything I do. With all of the classes and other aspects constantly occuring in my life, I have also become more responsible for managing my time. College has been incredibly valuable to me because I finally feel that I am actively learning. I have a constant hunger for knowledge, which inspires me to attend and participate in every class. The people I met have provided me with a better perspective of how people are in the real world, compared to my peers in a high school setting.

Deanna

College has changed my point of view of how the world works. Starting college was a huge change for me, but I have come to love the environment that is Carlow University. The fear of college and not passing was great when I first started. When i met my professors' they made me feel like I was at home. There was times when I needed help in some of my classes, and they instantly were there to give me guidance. College helped me become someone entirely new. I can start up conversations with people in a more sophisticated manner that can keep them interested in what I have to say. I feel as though there is more opportunities opening up for me as I continue on my path to enlightenment. To obtain my education is my goal to keep going with college. The environment has helped me to accept difficulties as they come instead of worrying about them before hand. When I finish college I plan to get a job in Graphic Design at an advertising agency. Everything I learn in college will enable me to become closer to obtaining my dreams for the future. Education is amazing to achieve!

TIFFANY

If given the chance to go back knowing what I know now, I would look at my freshman year as my discovery year, go in undecided and give myself 1 full year of Core classes and a class or 2 directed towards majors which I am interested. Instead, of the constant changing of majors because it is easy to lose interest. I would tell myself to slow down and enjoy my senior year, not take on more than I can before leaving for school. It would be important to stress to myself live in the moment not in the future, because the future isn't promised. Work hard today because there should be no regrets of what I didn't do today. Live for the moment, no regrets!

Jessica

In my first college experience, right after high school, I struggled to find a place where I felt truly comfortable. I was immature, and as a result, ended up wasting much of my college time on things like drinking and partying when I should have been studying. While I am able to say that I made some great friends during those times, I have no memory of my academic experience. Now, my education is the most important thing to me. I have a family that I care about. I want to get an education so that I can support them and show them that it pays to persevere, no matter how hard it may seem. If I could go back in time and talk to myself about college life, I would encourage myself to spend time visiting schools. I would make sure to explain that it IS hard work, but it is absolutely worth it. But my most important advice would be to ask for help, no matter how insignificant the task may seem.

Charlene

I am a senior in college at age 59. If I new 45 years ago what I know now, I would have approached high school differently. My first decision that delayed me becoming a college student was my teen pregnancy. I was 8 months pregnant when I graduated as an honor student in 1969. I love my daughter, but I should have waited to get married and have children. I was an honor student throughout high school, but I prepared to get married and leave my alcoholic mother, instead of going to college. My goal should have been to attend college and work for a better life than my mother was able to give me. I waited until my husband died and my autistic son graduated from school before I started college. I should have put myself and my future first and attended college at age 18 and not 51. I should have concentrated more on academics and college boards and less on getting married and having a baby as a high school senior. I should have seen college as my ticket away from my mother's alcoholism instead of choosing teen marriage and pregnancy as my only way out!!

Lindsay

I would tell myself that everything was going to be ok in the end. I learned my first semester that sometimes you have to say no to going out when you know you have work to do or you have to study for a test. Because those other people that chose to go out in the middle of the week aren't going to do nearly as well as you did. But you have to put in the time and want to do well so you can succeed. The homesickness goes away eventually; plus there are other people feeling the same way. But most importantly don't judge your roommate by what you see on Facebook because she's not nearly as bad as you thought she was going to be. In fact you two will become best friends and tell each other everything and she's really what helps you get through college.

Tara

I would tell myself to consider all of my options more carefully. As a current university freshman I'm beginning to realize what my true passion in life is, but even as a high school senior my mind was clouded and overwhelmed by the concept of college. After my first semester I've really able to take a step back and look at things in a new perspective. I see now what I didn't see before. So if it were possible to go back in time I would tell myself to follow my heart and trust where it leads me. I'd say that first and foremost happiness is most important, and in many cases it will lead to success. Success, in my mind, then and now, is the ultimate goal and what every person should strive for.

Brittany

I would tell myself to choose a college that is focused highly on academics. A college that offers me a lot in my major. One, that will help me find possible job oppurtunities in my senior year of college. A campus with a smaller amount of students, so the classes are smaller, and the professors can help each student individually. A campus with a little more to offer when it comes to social life, and possibly a co-ed school. A campus with a football team, for sporting events to go to would also have been something I would have told myself. Just a college that focuses on helping me do the best that I can.

Chanessa

Calm down. I know this process seems like a burden rather than a great experience. Try your hardest to do well on the SAT's. Your SAT scores can take you a long way. Not only can these scores determine your admittance, but they may also allow you to skip taking a class or two that your future friends may have to take. But believe me, applying early to colleges is a great step and might even reduce your stress level that most high school seniors experience when their nearing the end. The more you take this seriously, the better chances you have of going where you want to in life. This year is truly your first step in taking control of your future. Now, when you finally get to the college of your choice, or to the college that accepted you, stay focused. Know that having fun and partying is great and everything, but your work comes first. Because, of course you can party for those few years, but what is more important is the years after graduation. I have learned that hard work, and involvement in activities will continue to benefit me. Be a life long learner buddy.

Rebecca

The best advice I could possibly give myself would be to always take things in stride, never allowing myself to get behind or overwhelmed. College is a journey, one that must be walked out everyday to its utmost. I would warn myself that wasting time will only add to the general stress of school, and can cause my overall ability to not be as strong. Focus on learning all the information needed, not just the bare essentials. College is nothing like high school in that I must work harder than I ever have. High school, especially during my senior year, was tough, especially knowing I would soon be going to a university where I knew no one. I came from a small high school where I knew everyone and everyone knew me. College is not like that at first, but knowing what I know now, I would encourage myself to be confident in who I am. Putting away all shyness and just being who I am is the best way to make new friends and make a smooth transition from high school to college. But other than that I would remind myself to enjoy the journey that I am on.

Kara

First and foremost, look for scholarships. It is never to early to prepare for the hundreds of thousands of dollars that college will cost. Second, this is not high school anymore. You are being held to a new, much higher standard. You have to work longer and study harder. Don't be afraid to ask professors for help...that is what they are there for. Finally, have fun. College is when you discover who you are. This does not mean go out partying the night before a big exam. It means don't get so lost in the academics that you forget who you are. Take a Saturday night off and go have fun. College can be the best four years of your life.

Lauren

When looking at colleges, make sure to look around. Look at schools close to home, far away, and in between. You might think you know what you want, but until you actually visit the college in person you will have no clue. Another good idea would be to set up an overnight visit with the college, by doing so, one is able to get the whole feel of a college experience from dorm life, the cafeteria, and classes. Make a pro and cons list of all the schools you visited to see which school is the best for you. Also be sure to take not of the actually courses the schools offer, job opportunities in the surrounding city, off campus activities, and campus life. In order to make the most of your college experience, make sure to keep you academics your first priority, but be sure to have fun. Get involved in various activities, try something new, and make lots of friends. Remember college is the start to a new part of your life, and you have the chance to be whoever or whatever you want to be.

Nicole

The student going to college should look carefully into every college they are interested in and then pick the college that they think will be the right one for them as far as classes, location and the opportunities that they will encounter during their school years and the benefits that they will receive to make them better people in the future and better to serve their community in life.College is just a start in life and everyone no matter what their financial situation is deserves to make themself a better and happier person by getting the career that they want.

Maria

You need to find a place where you are most comfortable. A place that will not only help you acheive career goals but also make you happy. Colege is a big part of our lives and what we learn there we will take with us for the rest of our lives. Whether its in the classroom or from the friends that we make.

Nina

Nothing really.

Nikki

When looking for the right college you really need to look at who you are and where you come from. People feel most comfortable and open in a place they are able to feel at home, which enables the learning. Not all people want to live on a campus, but you still need to find that place that really overcomes you when being there. You have to like the overall core values of the school and be able to want to do that to feel like you belong. That's what helps in finding the right college. When making the most of your college experience you need to really open yourself to growth in a new way. There is nobody to tell you when to get up or do your work. To succeed you have to motivated. To reach that level you have to want to be there and enjoy the people you are around. Somebody once told me that you go to college to find your bridesmaid not your groom. That is true to college life, you create bonds so strong with the ones around that it isn't just learning it is gaining a long term bond.

Laura

Learn what would be best for you.

Crista

Try to visit colleges that allow you to sit in on classes because that is the only way you will see what the college is really like. Also if you are not happy after one year with your school, transfer then because its much easier to transfer credits

Ashleigh

Look at colleges of different sizes and locations to find the one that is right for you. Choose a school you want to attend not one a friend is going to or one someone in your family already attended. If you are not happy with the school you attend you're the one that will be miserable.

Kristen

Look at more than one college and go with your gut. Do not say I want this college because of my boyfriend. Choose the school that best fits what you want out of life. College is suppossed to be fun but rewarding at the same time. Give yourself plenty of time to choose and make sure you look at the campus before you choose it. You will have to live there for 2-4 years so you better like where you are.

Nicole

Start off slow. Let your kids settle for CCAC bacause then if they find college to be too hard atleast you are not wasting 50,000 dollars like you do at carlow.

Aileen

In order to make sure the college that you are choosing is right for you, the best advice I can give you would be to visit atleast five prospective schools and meet with faculty, advisors, and current students in order to get a better understanding of the colleges' standards and values. This also helps you get a foot in the door if you haven't been accepted yet, with the added bonus already knowing people if you do end up attending that school. In order to make the most out of the college experience, it's important to attend the orientation events/icebreakers so you get to know other new students and can make new friends. It's also important to become involved in any sports or activities that you enjoy so that you can meet other people with similar interests. It's also a great idea to introduce yourself to your professors and ask them for help when needed. This way, you're not just a face in the crowd or a number, and you can build a relationship with them that will come in handy when you need a reference or letter of recommendation.

Lisa

When in the process of finding a college it is very important to check out the school, more than one time, because it really allows you to get the feeling for the school and life on campus. It is also very important that when finding a school the student is able to make their selection on schools they want to attend and should not let influences, such as family memebers, friends, and money to change their mind about a school. If the school is the one they want to attend they should try to find a way to make things work for themselves and if money is a problem to find a way to get loans and grants to cover the cost.

Molly

It can be very hard and stressful to decide which college is right for you (or your child.) The best advice from one student to a future student is to base your decision on your own wants and needs. Make sure to find a campus that suites you, and only you. You are the student, you are the one eating the food, receiving the education, meeting new people, and making new friends. Parents, teachers, and peers may help you by suggesting schools, but make sure the school that you choose is the one that you want to attend. Visit every campus that you are interested in and keep in mind all of the pros and cons of each school. When you walk on each campus, one will stick out, one will feel like home to you. Although you may have heard scary stories about college and the college life, it is what you make it out to be. College could be the worst thing that every happened to you, or it could be the greatest conquer in your life, either way, its an obstacle. Hang in there, study and work hard, and you will love your college experience.

Kristin

If you truly want to be happy and fulfilled in your college choice, listen to your instinct. For instance, if you arrive on campus for a tour, and are bothered by some of the little things (such as dorms, food or even the overall friendliness) take that to heart. You are at college no only to learn, but to grow mentally, spiritually, and physically. If you feel held back, or uncomfortable in any way, chance are things won't get any easier. No matter what people say, choose what is right for YOU. You will get the most out of what you put into your college experience by living your life the way you want to live it. Be independent and stay focused in a timely manner. Remember-school first, then activities.

Charisma

Parents and students should visit the school and ask questions. I would ask students at the college and make sure that these questions are asked to current enrolled students maybe sitting in the cafeteria or in the library. I would ask to see the college's mission statement and asked real life hypothetical questions to see how the college will handle the ups and downs of student life.

Rachelle

Looking for a college that is suitable for their needs. Finding an extracirricular activity to ease into the experience and potentially make friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Find a school that has a good security system. Also find a school that is technologically advanced. Get the most for what you pay for, and get involved. Ask about the financial aid that is available while attending the school and any additional costs that may be added through the school. Also look into scholarships that are available to you for many different things.

Stephanie

I would tell students to visit every single school that is even within a realm of possibility before deciding. While various information given by admissions counselors is great to have, nothing can make or break a deal like visiting. I would tell students to take into consideration the pros and cons of every single campus before picking one, because for the most part, once you pick one you're pretty much spending four years there. Do a lot of research, don't just go with what your friends are doing or what you think your parents want you to do. This is the beginning of YOUR life as an adult, so start it off right.

Katie

The main piece of advice that I would give to an aspiring college graduate would be to really cherish the experience while you have it, because it definitely goes by way to fast. The grass is always greener on the other side, and when your going through college, all you can seem to do is complain about the stress and workload and just wish for it to be over, and then sure enough it ends, and all you find yourself doing is begging to go back! It's also really important to actually focus on your schoolwork, and strive to get above average grades. A lot of people choose college's based on how big of a party school it is. but in the end, how much you drank during your 4 years at that college or University, isn't going to get you a successful job in the real world. Overall, have a great time, make a lot of unforgettable friends, and really dig deep to find out who you are as a professional in your preferred field of study.

Rachael

Make sure that you chose based on academics and not partying, but keep inconsideration that you may not get the total college experince by doing so

Stephanie

College is not only about the grades and education, it is also about the life experiences that one has while moving through the transitions and choices that are made while living it. It is important , I believe, to step outside of your comfort zone, and not take the "easy way out" when it comes to college choice. Going away to school gives so many life experience opportunities that may not be available to you otherwise. Choose somewhere far from home, learn to make new friends and live in a new place. It really makes all the difference. Once you do choose your university, GET INVOLVED. Being involved in campus activities will help you make friends and memories that will last a lifetime. College is really an opportnity to find yourself, learn who you are and what you want out of life. Academically it is important to know your learning style and time management skills. College is fun, but also hard work. Dont ever loose sight of the big picture and the goal that you are striving to fulfill. Take full advantage of this unique time in your life to explore YOU because it will be gone before you know it.