Catawba College Top Questions

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

Colleen

Enjoy being young, stand up for what you believe in, don't wait til your fifty five to follow your dreams, and buy lots of stock in apple so that you can afford your house payments while getting your degree. You really are as old as you feel. Enjoy Life

Ashley

I would tell myself to not just do the minimum and to reach for maximum potential with academics and athletics. It would have gotten me into a better school. Also I would tell myself to participate in more clubs in the school. During my school search I would have told myself to give myself more options to choose from and start the school search early. I waited until the last minute and I didn't get to choose from a wide variety of schools to choose from. Lastly I would have told myself to throw the senioritis aside and focused harder during my senior year and build stronger relationships with friends.

Dustin

When I was a high school senior, the whole idea of college sounded terrifying. If I had known then what I know now, I think the transition would have been much easier. If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself not to be worried. I would take the time to caution myself, because college certainly demanded more effort and work than I had ever done before. More importantly, I would tell myself that all the hard work was worth it. I would also mention the positive experiences associated with college. For instance, college choir was the best musical experience of my life. Across my four years, I made countless friends who have made a profound impact on my life. I also had the opportunity to travel abroad twice. I never imagine I would get to do so many wonderful things during college. If only my high school self could have known the joys that were to come, I would not have been so worried.

Brittany

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self, I would tell a younger me the most important advice I can think of: saving money. Even though I assumed that I had enough money for books, dorm room supplies, and food when I graduated from high school, there is always another fee to pay. I would tell myself to work diligently during the summer and save up as much money as possible. Eating out over the break and going to the movies are not nearly as important as a textbook for a class that will propel my career. Pleasures such as seeing the newest releases and dining out with friends only provide a temporary satisfaction. While I enjoyed all those interactions with friends, it is also important to be frugal. Saving money will teach me the importance of making early sacrifices that will yield huge dividends.One way to help with the expense of college is to constantly apply for scholarships. I would tell myself that saving money is a necessary life skill that is applicable to the rest of my future. Saving money is undoubtedly the most important step in preparing for college.

Lara

I would write myself a letter that clearly outlines where I see myself in 15 years. Goals require work and focus. My future is worth more than one night of fun. That includes drinking, drugs, sex, procrastination, shopping or just about anything else that presents as being more important than attending classes, getting work done and maximizing my college experience. I don't ever want to have to look back and say I wish I had done things differently. I want to make the choices that lead to the future I dream of now, not make up for lost time later.

Danna

Look inside yourself for the answer to the question: "What do I want to be/do when I grow up?" The answer is there. Do what you always do, research all of your options. Don't look back. Take chances. Do your best. Enjoy life to the fullest, but be smart about it. Make and keep friends. Learn as much as possible. Don't get married just because its the next step. Remember that just because you are great friends does not make you great life mates. Make it a point to make a positive impact in a person's life every single day. Know that no matter what choices you make now, there's an awesome little boy in your future that will steal your heart forever. (Hint: you don't marry him.)

Mireya

I would tell myself that I need to have a support system set up wherever I go to school, because there are many things that can go wrong while at school whether it has something to do with relationships, or just the stress of the classes i will be taking. I would tell myself to focus and just do you work don't procrastinate because you will just end up more stressed, and don't take it easy cause someone is not their to tell you to do your homework everynight. If you can do assignments ahead of time, do them as soon as possible. Then I would just tell myself to relax and realize that if I fail a test or a class it is not the end of the world I am still so blessed to have a family that supports me and friends that can be their for me whenever I need them.

Noreen

Transitioning into college is a very big step in life. You are now independent and on your own. It is very important that you choose a college that is good for you. A college where you are happy and comfortable is also important because it will affect your experience. Unfortunately, I made a mistake did not do this and found out the hard way. I was unable to attend a college of my choice due to personal reasons, so I had to attend my backup college. The first semester I was not happy. I felt miserable and hated the place. Though I did not let this get in my way, I refused to give up. I decided to give it another at another semester, and I ended up hating it even more. Since I did not enjoy this college experience, I did not perform to my full potential. The semester after this I went to another college where I was much more happeier and did a better job academically. I strongly reccommend that incoming freshmen attend a school that they like. If not, make it a priority to visit the school of your second option.

Naima

The advice I would give myself would have to be apply for more scholarships because college cost way more then most parents can afford. I would also tell myself to not stress the college process because it will get easy as time goes by. I also would have told myself to work more then two jobs over the summer and save every penny I came in contact with.

Denisa

I would tell myself that there is a college suitable for her. I will encourage her to seek out more options and to speak to a counselor.

Christina

The advice I would give myself is to go into my freshman year at Catawba with an open mind, and embrace every little thing that comes my way. To allow my self to meet new people and dont be shy of showing who I really am. Be very involved in things around campus, because this will allow you to see all the great things Catawba has to offer. Prepare for class ahead of time and make work your first priority. Understand that College is a life transition and that you are now paying for the classes you are taking, so do your absolute best and get your moneys worth. Surround yourself with people who will be only a positive influence on you and do the same for them. Continue to show Gods love through who you are and make good choices. Life is a never ending thing and you can't pause time so make what you have the best you possibly can and through all the long nights and papers after papers be proud of what you are goig to accomplish and show your family why you are the first to go to college.

Tashina

I have learned the value of an education. Prior to college, I floated around from class to class, grade to grade, because I was always intelligent enough to do the work and get good grades. However, in college, I realized that it isn't about the grade. It's about becoming a well-rounded individual of soceity. America is the way that it is now because we no longer value our education. We have some of the best opportunities, yet we waste them. We wonder why nations like China and India are taking over as global intellects, yet we do little to prevent it. People in other nations study, learn, and embrace 3 or 4 languages other than their native ones and we complain about hearing spanish used. If you take advantage of the opportinity that this college offers you, you'll understand how to be a responsible student of society. It's liberal arts background forces you to open you eyes to a big world while looking out a small window.

Molly

Although I have decided not to return to Catawba, the growth I experienced there has been irreplaceable. I am now doing everything in my power to attend University of North Carolina Wilmington. Unfortunately, my family has come under somewhat of a financial burden and I am having difficulty making this dream come true. Still, I am not giving up hope. I have four younger siblings and a very close, though quite large, extended family and I have always had this support system to lift me up when I have fallen. However, I am now beginning to realize that I am strong, I am independent, and I can succeed on my own. I am taking advantage of my time here at home to do things I have never done before and spend time with family that I was “too busy” for in high school. My whole perspective has changed and everyone around me has noticed. Life is what you make of it and, likewise, what you get from life is what you put into it. That being said, your success revolves around how high or low you aim. You can be as successful as you dream. DREAM BIG.

Johnny

I have gotten the college experience. Not only have I already gotten a great education so far, but I have the privelige of living on campus and getting the full experience that I used to think was not going to be an option. I am so thrilled and proud of my position that so many people to not get to experience.

Kathleen

Although living in Connecticut has been tough for you, you need to realize that it is very difficult being thirteen hours from home. You will miss your friends and family and travel will be difficult, but you will grow so much in the next year. You will transform from being a dependent teenager to an independent young lady. You will become overwhelmed in your first year in the theater department. It is not an easy transition going from a big fish in a small pond to a small fish in a big pond. Always remember that you are talented, smart, and have so much to offer this campus. Even though you may forget this, you will have so many amazing professors who will have faith in you and will not let you forget this fact. They will be there for you when you need them. College will be an amazing experience for you, even though it seems scary. Just remember to keep positive friends and most importantly, have faith in yourself. God will be your copilot for this amazing journey and you have so many wonderful experiences ahead of you. Embrace them and have the time of your life!

William

To be open to everything the college is offering you. To keep your mind open to all colleges big or small. Just be yourself and not let others influence you.

Chase

To start earlier getting more pepared for college life and take a few classes over the summer at a Technical College. This way I could have taken the major classes when I started classes, and not had to take the classes that were not as important to finish my major and had them out of the way. And I could have started taken classes full force to get my major started and been ahead of the game 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. But live and learn. And I should had taled to the counselors a lot more. They are the way to go. Get yourself more prepared for what was to come. My advice to myself would definitely had been to have gotten myself more prepared for all the classes, the papers, and all the essays that were to come and be ready for the task ahead of me. Just be more prepared and ready for a whole different life that was to come for me. More work and a lot harder.

Justin

Just go to class. No matter how easy it is to skip, just go to class. And do not get into a relationship. It will take away from the rest of your college experience.

TJ

I would say dont worry about playing football just pick a school that fits your personality and needs because football only lasts so long

coty

pick a larger university that has more fields of study. borrow the money to attend that school and not try to save money and live at home to reduce the cost. not have my father come out of retirement and go to work at catawba college to off set my tuition cost and let him enjoy his retirement from the state highway patrol.

Gail

Visit the school and weigh out the benefits and consequences of choosing one school over another very carefully. Do not settle, and do not choose a school close to home simply because it is comfortable. Be open to making new friends, do not be shy, and do your best to have fun in the midst of school work.

Dawn

My advice would be to look thoroughly into the small schools. Particularly if the student is from a small town. College can be very intimidating. I also suggest that the parents and academic advisors encourage students to choose from several elective courses. Especially if they are not 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} about their major. Often times, students feel "locked in" to an academic program and are curious about other career alternatives.

Lara

Go to a college with a nice campus; it will really help when you're struggling with alot of work and you can just look out your window at something beautiful

Lindsey

When looking for the right college, GO VISIT and if they have a program where you can take some classes and spend the night on campus with a current student, DO IT!! This is going to be your home for the next four years, it needs to feel that way. Once on campus, immediately GET INVOLVED!! Know the profs and administrators. The little things you do on and off campus (in the community) well help you to define who you are and make your college experience more enjoyable. Friends will be there, the parties will be there, but extra curricular opportunities can get snatched up if you don't go after those.

Derek

Visit the colleges and talk to the students!

Kevin

Look around. Find the one that connects best with the applicant and makes them feel wanted. After that get involved.

Josh

Always visit the school. Talk to students and faculty while you visit. Always see the living arrangements and check out the sports, it is a great way to get involved with the school and to meet people. Always go to class and talk to your professors while you are there. Have fun while you are attending college.

Jessica

Make sure that you spend a day or two at prospective colleges as a part of the college community. I highly recommend spending the night with a current student in order to get a better feel for the college commnity. Also, sit in on some classes that may interest you, ask students and faculty as many questions as possible so that you can be as informed as possible when it finally comes to deciding where you want to go.

Brian

Be sure to visit the institutions you plan to attend and speak with actual students who are not biased or working for the institution. Make responsible financial decisions, but remember, a few thousand extra a year is worth it if it means you'll be happier and have much better career oppurtunities upon graduation. Make a list of everything that you want or expect out of your college experience and compare it to all your potential schools.

Vanessa

Visit the college prior to accepting admittance to be certain that the college has the right feel. Be open-minded but don't compromise your needs and wants. Look for an institution that will challenge your student and will support change and growth.

Angela

I would tell the students, that no matter where you go you'll only be happy if you truly like the college you've chosen. Where you are comfortable. Whereever you chose to enroll, it will eventually become home for four years, and you will make friends. The decision is ultimately yours. Go with your gut decision. Parents, let your child make this decision themselves, and allow them to major in whatever they chose, you won't be with them through these 4 years, so they have to be happy with this decision. It's their life, and thier decision to live with everyday. Don't force them to make one they will regret.

Justin

Small schools are generally better than larger ones, because you don't meet new people everyday of your 4 years that you are there. Its also important to find a school that seems to fit the student's "personality" or they wouldn't like it. I enjoyed my tiny school because I do not enjoy to be surrounded by big crowds except in specific situations, such as sporting events and musical performances on and off campus. The trick to getting the most out of the college experience, and it is a simple one that is easily forgotten, is to keep your dorm room door open unless you're asleep. Many people like to close their room's door and they miss out on people stopping by to say hi. If people are visiting one person across the hall and your door is open, they will stop by and say hello. So just remember to keep your door open and go to campus events and the college experience will be a fulfilling one.