Cedar Crest College Top Questions

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

Jesly

Take advantage of the ease with which senior year classes involve. Even if taking advanced classes, it is a normal regiment by senior year. You are beyond familiar with the school and teachers. Involve yourself as much as possible and make as many memories as possible. Make it a time you wish to relive, because it only happens once - hopefully. Don't just pass through in the background, counting the minutes until graduation, when you don't have to see these people any longer. But get to know them. This is the last time you will be able to have minimal responsibility with maximum range of fun. So enjoy it and live in the moment.

Daniela

Let me start by saying I was not the most ideal high school student. My parents were never around, so I could do whatever I wanted whenever I wanted. Instead of hitting the books and studying, I was out running around and hanging with my friends. I missed a lot of days and ended up on probation for truency. The only thing that really saved me, was how smart I was, or I would have been failing miserably. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself not to cut myself short. Take the Chemistry and Physics classes (which were recommended) instead of the easier Science and Tech. Push myself to be challenged instead of just showing up and passing with out much work because I took the easier path. I sometimes wonder if I had parents that actually pushed me where I would be in life. Then I think I would not have the strength and ability to deal with situations without my past. I am very independent and get things done, I owe it to having to deal with everything as a child. I grew up fast, but wouldn't have it any other way.

Regan

I'd say stop doing drugs now, college will be worth the sobriety. I got clean the end of my senior year but I should have started getting clean the begining of it.

Areaona

I would tell myself to not care so much about judgment. Judgement will always plague humanity, it depends on how one takes the judgement and criticism to form a better future for themselves and those around the world.

Kelly

RELAX. Take everything one day at a time and dont stress over the little things. Try to keep everything in perspective.

Sharon

I wouldn’t change a thing. I didn’t have the option to start school at that time in my life. The advice I have for myself in that time period would be; continue to work hard; live every day like it was your last; show love towards all of your friends and family; don’t ever give up and continue down the road you are on.

Ayanna

So far out of my college experience, I realized that it is all up to you. Whatever you want to do and set your mind to, then you can do it. I have learned that you have to try your best all the time. You only get one chance to impress someone, so you have to be yourself and give it your all in order to make an appearance. I have also learned that you have to learn how to manage your time and stay focus. No one is going to be on your back forcing you to do what you have to do, it's all up to you. I hope by time I graduate from Cedar Crest College, I will have learned truely what feminism is, and be able to apply it in my life. I hope I graduate I will be able successfully take a stand as a woman.

Kaila

My college experience have given me a sense of independance, and a new love for learning. As a science major, I have one of the most demanding major at my school. Because of this, I have learned time management, and learned to study in a more proper and prosperous manner. It also taught me to buckle down and get done what I need to do because I no longer have my parents there to tell me what I need to accomplish. I just have me, and whether or not I want to pass or fail.

Adrianne

I have attended college in the past, not knowing exactly what I wanted to study, and while taking time off I have finally realized what my dream job is. Being a Veterinary Technician will be like having the best of both worlds for me. Being able to do something I love and having that be my career is what I have always strived for in my life. Ever since being a child I have always been interested in taking care of animals, bringing home everything from a wounded moth to a baby bird that fell out of a nest. At first, after I graduated high school, I thought doing something that would pay a lot of money would make me the happiest. During a few years that I had to take off from school due to life's struggles, I realized that I had been wrong all along; you can't be happy doing something you don't enjoy doing. Now that I am sure of what I want to persue as my career I can guarantee I will be trying my hardest to be the best student/vet. tech that I can possibly be.

Jessica

Going through public schooling for most of my life then ending up being homeschooled for the last couple years of high school really sheltered me. I was really nervous about attending college, especially one that had so many buildings and students of all backgrounds, ages, ethnicities, etc. The great thing is it turned out amazing! Everyone in school is there to learn its not about the whole party college experience its really about the education and getting involved with the school in different activities. I have really enjoyed my experience so far at my school and can't wait to continue on to receive my degree.

Brittany

I am currently finishing up my first semester of college, freshman year. I obviously have much education left to complete; however, I have already learned so much from my first year at community college! So far, I have realized that in college, a student must be accountable for their own study habits. I have nobody holding a textbook to my face, yet I understand that if I don't sit down and force myself to study, I won't get an acceptable grade on the test! I think this epiphany will guide my studies throughout my college years. The other valuable lesson I have learned, as of now, is time management. You really have to make time for important activities, and eliminate time-wasters. I manage this by giving myself timelines for everyday activities, say, two hours allotted for doing my English reading assignment, and a half-hour reward and break of watching a television program. I've found that this balance of work and play keeps me focused throughout the trying school week. I am very excited to complete my college experience; I thank you, wholeheartedly, for taking the time for read my submission.

Annie

College has helped me to find myself and where I belong. I never fit into a group or had friends in high school. Once I got to college I felt like an outsider until I found where I belonged. Now, finding what I love to do and making friends has helped me become who I know I will always be. I have grown so much by coming to this school and I found my real potential in being here. I never realized who I was or what I was going to do, until I found my place here at this school. Being a student at Cedar Crest has been a life changing experience that I believe every student that attends here experiences. I believe we all were alike in high school and found out who we were/are by coming here to Cedar Crest. I finally feel as if I belong and that I will survive in the world outside of school.

Mark

My college experience has been one of understanding and self realization. Coming out of High School I knew I wanted to do something big. I applied for West Point and was able to get my congressional nomination. After attending there for a semester I discovered that the military was not for me but yet I wanted to pursue my love of computers. Getting my Associates Degree was a great feeling but I want to go back and obtain my BS in Computer Science. West Point showed me what I wanted to do and gave me the determination to do it.

Andrea

I have gotten self-confidence from this school and friends who will stick with me for life.

Angela

My college experience so far has taught me how to manage my time wisely. I have to balance being a full time student and working almost full time to help pay for tuition. Also it has given me a sense of self respect. I believe in myself now and I have become more confident as a person. College has given me a new outlook on schooling. I now will sit down and do my homework and stress to others the importance of school whereas in high school I slacked off not knowing how important school really is. I am ready to help those in the community and I cannot do that without schooling which is why it is so valuable to me. Without schooling I would not be able to become a licensed social worker. I want to better others lives and give other children the lives they deserve. College has mostly been vaulable because it shapes my future. Without it I have no future.

Areaona

Its not as easy as it seems. You can not be a slacker. If you choose something follow through. Do ALL work at ALL times.

Kaydie

If I could go back in time I would most likely tell myself to take Honors English instead of regular English, and to pay more attention in all classes. I would also tell myself to take any/all opportunities in helping the community and to take leadership lessons. College is a rough transition but as long as your open minded you will get the job done and of course met new people along the way.

Toi

Simply, I would say to write out the important factors in accessing your educational goals and take time to consider each option. This is not to say that I did not take certain precautions before I made a final decision. But I do believe that I should have given myself more time and more options to choose from. I wish I would have really thought about what it takes to achieve a degree for me; whether it is more important to be close to family, long term financial impact(of college itself), and what I expect to even get out of obtaining the degree. Thinking back, I only felt a sense of hope for the future. It seemed as if nothing was set in stone, but that college was a place of opportunity. Within the college itself, there are the factors of professionalism and respect. It is important to really access your environment, getting a sense of what will have an influence on your life(whether it be religious based or something else). Currently, I feel the best decision was made with what I knew at the time; with the realization that you always learn more as you get older.

Victoria

I would tell myself to apply to more schools and do everything I possibly could my senior year in high school. To enjoy the time that I have with the people I am with and get all out of it I can. Also to think long and hard about going far away and what kind of impact that is going to have on all of my relationships. Once you get to school take a chance and meet new people, as hard as it is to reach out put a little bit of yourself out there and make new friends.

Kristin

Take your time, don't worry too much about growing up right away, because college is a time that is meant to be savoured. Take notes in class, pay attention and don't be afraid to ask for help (in class or out). Get involved, but not because it will "look good;" do it because you want to - that's the only way you'll enjoy college and truly make a difference. Remember to study, but don't take life too seriously. Your four years of college will be gone in a flash and the only way to slow them down is to enjoy the moments. As for those first terrifying days of being away from home, deep breaths - you'll make it through. It's okay to be sad for the era of your life that just ended, but only for moments. There's a whole chapter of fresh pages to write on, so make them good ones. Get out and meet people, discover yourself. People will ask you for the rest of your life "What college did you graduate from?" Make sure these four years are worth that publicity for the rest of your life.

Jessica

I would first start off by telling myself not to get lazy. All four years of high school came easy to me so I just expected college to be the same. The truth is that one must apply themselves because college is a step ahead of high school. I would also tell myselft to make sure I put time aside on the weekends to make sure all my work is done instead of waiting until sunday night to get all the work done. Having fun and hanging out with friends is great but it needs to be done in a way in which it will not interfere with school work. College is full of life lessons so pay attention and learn from all of your mistakes. Finally I would tell myself to moniter my money. Money does not grow on trees and once your bank account is empty then it is empty. It does not just magically refill itself. Having a chance to go back in time and give myself those words of advice would be an opportunity I could not refuse but in the end is too good to be true.

Ashley

The advice I would give to myself if I could go back to my senior year of high school and talk to myself would be to just enjoy college and let go of the little things that annoy you. Always have a positive attitude because there are always people who are in more need than you are and it does help your grades and your personality develop. If you are having problems with your roommates get help immediately! There is always someone there to help you, so don't be afraid to ask for help. Your grades are more important than anything, but you do need to have some fun and relax and not stress all the time. Most of all, the advice I would give myself is to just be yourself and enjoy the time you have. Life passes too quickly and once it's gone, you can't get it back.

Cynthia

Dear Me, High School is over and you can't wait to go college, but here's some things they don't tell you when filling out those applications: First, welcome to a full-time job. Didn't see that coming. Time to roll-up your sleeves. Sure the difficulty is about the same, but there is much more work and higher expectations from professors. Secondly, FOCUS. Sure, go party, hang with friends, but remember you have to budget your time. Be ready for those all-nighters and the consequences of misjudging your time. Have chocolate on hand. It is time to step-up to the plate, be responsible and learn some discipline. Third, find the fitness center. You're going to stress-out, gain weight and start feeling lousy. Nip it in the butt! Exercise the body while exercising the mind. Forth, find a club or two. Join and make friends. They'll help you more than you'll ever realize. Lastly, it will not matter what you scored on a particular test or what classes you took when it is all said and done. What is important is the person you will become. Make the most of it.

Jennifer

I would have practiced using a planner more high school so that my time mangament skills were better in college. I would have studies harder to get higher scores on my test and therefore gained more scholarships for the school of my choice. Lastly, I would have learned to say no to my family and focused more on my school work instead of taking adult responsibilities when I was only a yougn girl...

Danielle

Learn how to manage your time! your going to be involved in so many clubs/organizations, socities, volunteering, having fun with your uber great best friends, and of course your ginormous course work. But don't worry, you're a level-headed young lady with lots of support around you, and with a fierce determination I know you possess, you will get through it, inch by inch. If you need help, ask for it, there are many people available who do not mind helping you. And if you like her, go for her, take chances, never look back and regret. Good luck love!

Kaleigh

I would put a lot of effort into teaching myself to study. College is fun and exciting but is also demanding. A lot more time and effort gets put into things like homework, projects and research just to keep your grades. Also, make a lot of friends and enjoy freshman year because from there on it gets tough. Be active in on campus events and programs because you meet a lot of people including professors. Make sure to try things you haven't done before. This is the time to find out what your good at so branch out. It's worth it to try. And even if it doesn't work, chances are you've met some great people.

Alexis

Get yourself organized! No one is going to stand over your shoulder and make you do your work and it is all up to you!

Justine

Listen to your heart. If you don't think you'll be happy at a particular school, then don't go. If you are unhappy in a specific degree program, switch majors. The sky is the limit, and you need to do something that you will enjoy, because this is about enriching yourself and also about finding a potential career.

Jennifer

Don't try to have everything figured out all at once. Be willing to be flexable and go with the flow, it may lead you somewhere you never expected and end up being what you really wanted.

Megan

Really do your research and find a college that has the same values you do. Visit the campus. Most students know their perfect school when they set foot on the campus. Meet with professors and your admissions counselor. Choosing a college is a huge process...and it is important for you to be happy wherever you go. I graduated from CCC...and I now work in Admissions. I love this school. Give us a call...I would be glad to set up a visit for you!

Jennifer

Choosing a college is likely one of the most important academic decisions a person makes throughout their lifetime. Having said that, there are several things that need to be taken into consideration. First of all, the student needs to choose whatever it is that makes them happy when they are selecting a major. From what I have seen, it's more important to be mediocre in a subject that truely enthralls you and captures your attention, rather than excelling at a subject that makes you unhappy. While many academics and parents may disagree, I feel that there is no reason to major in something if you do not enjoy it. Your major is determining factor in your future career, and 30-40 years is a long time to spend in an unsatisfying career. Another important factor is environment and distance. If the student is painfully shy and grew up in a small town, a large campus may intimidate them and hinder them socially and academically. Social butterflies may feel stifled on smaller campuses and flourish on larger campus. Once the student finds the right college, they should be willing to branch out and try new things and meet new people.

Alyssa

Go with your gut.

Margaret

When I was deciding on a college, I knew that wherever I went would need to have the major I in which was interested It limited my options a bit, and I ultimately chose the school from my list of "major-friendly colleges" that I was pretty confident would accept me. It seemed like the most practical decision I could make. One of the most important lessons after I arrived at college is that a lot of other students had chosen our school for similar reasons. Many of us ended up discontent with our college experience and/or transferred to another college or university, as we realized that, outside of the majors we had wanted, it really was not a good fit at all. My best advice for anyone looking to attend college is to take your time observing the actual campus community and see if it would be enough to keep you happy even without your current major of choice. Even if there are other campuses nearby, it will still make a huge difference in your college experience if you don't have anything but academics to keep you at your own school.

Kristen

I f eel that in choosing the right college you need to look at the location, the size, the extracurricular activities, and the living situations. There are many types of colleges out there so you do not need to settle some place if you are not fully comfortable there. As for making the most of your college experience, I would make sure to balance your school work with your social life. It is key to keep a planner and make sure you stay up to date with school assignments and not procrastinate. I personally work very hard with school but give myself a few nights a week to relax with friend and destress. That is the way to survive!

Victoria

Sleep over.

Jennifer

I would just say to really think about what you want to get from your education and options you think you might want after you graduate that the college you choose can offer you. It's also important to look at the campus size, the parking options at your campus, especially if you are a commuter. It's also really important to go to the campus and walk around without being part of a tour to get the experience of what it will be like when you're there your freshman year.

Heather

Find a school that fits your personality. Also, take the time to do your research. What do I want to study? What kind of social activities do I want surrounding me? These are important questions that will help you choose the right school and enjoy it.

Amanda

I would suggest that parents and students tour many different colleges and talk to professors and students at the school they are interested in. Once accpeted and attending the college I would tell the student to get involved in on campus clubs and organizations. They are a great way to get to know people and often there are a wide range of activities offered.

Katelyn

So much focus these days is placed on putting ourselves or our children into the "best" college -- the most prestigious, the most well-known, etc. What's most important, though, is finding the college that best fits a combination of your or your child's needs as a scholar AND as a person. Think about personality, think about needs, think about resources, not just a name. Once there, use what's available to you! Find out what resources your college offers and take advantage of them -- you'll be glad you did. Also, don't make the mistake of limiting yourself to your campus. Even small towns have a unique character to them, and if you're near a city, don't let the temptation to use what's closest to keep you from experiencing the sights and sounds of the big world beyond your campus gates.

Jamie

The best advice that I could give parents or students who are looking for the right college is to go with your gut and not worry about the cost. Write out a list of things that you want in a school and see which of your choices best fits what you want. Be sure to visit the school because otherwise you really won't be able to judge what the school has, or if you like it or not. Also don't base your decision on money because there are scholarships, loans, and financial aid to help you. Even though a school is expensive it may be the right school for you, and there is nothing worse than going to a school because it is cheaper. In the end you want to have a great college experience and that is truly worth the extra money, because there is nothing that can compare to a great college experience.

Ashley

When deciding on a college its really important not to let anyone else make the decision for you. College has the potential to be the best time of your life, but it can also be the worst time. Just remember to choose the college that is right for you. I've seen a lot of my friends choose colleges because it was what their parents expected of them, or to be close to their significant other. Just know that if you make the right choice you have a higher chance at being successful, and being successful is what anyone who loves you would want for you.

Lindsey

I can say from personal experience that the most important thing to remember while searching for the right college is to always keep and open mind and to not instantly dismiss a school without looking into it further. When first finding out that Cedar Crest was an all women's college I was instantly ready to say "pass" and move on. However, after speaking to a representative of the school over the phone, I was convinced to take a tour of the campus. Upon my arrival I was instantly captivated-- the campus was so beautiful and the people were so sincere and helpful. A year later, I couldn't imagine being anywhere else. And now, rather than sneering at the thought, I'm proud to say that I go to an all women's college. As for making the most of the college experience? I say be ready to try new things and step out of previously instilled comfort zones. Try out for that team, join that interesting club, take that challenging course... Without an open mind and a willingness to explore possibilities how can you ever expect to make it through life-- let alone college?

Kayla

I strongly sugggest that the parents allow the student to choose the school that makes them feel the most comfortable, and do not pressure the student into attending the school that the parents want their child to go to. Students should visit a few colleges to get a good idea of the different options that are available and to look carefully into the programs that they are interested in. Although financial circumstances are extremely important in chosing a college, there are many scholarships available through various programs so no school is completely out of reach. Another suggestion for the student would be to attend classes that are in their field of interest so they can get an idea of what they will be like if they are actually attend the school. If class size is a factor, you may be able to see how small or large classes are. Previewing residence halls if living on campus is also important. The student should feel as comfortable as possible in the residence halls, it will be their home away from home. Chosing a college is not always an easy process, but their is a school out their for everyone.

Jasmita

You can always transfer if it doesn't feel right.

Samantha

I advise students to choose the college or university that makes them feel at home when you walk onto the campus.

Jessica

Look at ALL the options. Don't limit yourself with distance from home branching out is the best part about college. Surround yourself with good people and the weeks will fly by.

Lauren

To make the most of your college experience, students need to visit and apply to college and universities that they feel meet all of their academic and social expectations. Don't base where you are going to school on your friends or boyfriend/girlfriend. Be open to all different types of people, because not everyone is exactly like you. I love my school, but I don't live on campus. If I were to do it all over I would live on campus to experience the real college life, and to learn how to live on my own.

Jasmin

My advice that I would give to parents will be first to start looking at colleges early. There are many choices of colleges so you have to make sure that your child picks the college that they will feel comfortable in and where you feel they would benefit the most. It is a big decision when it comes to the major as well, so start talking to your child about their interest of majors early. Once you have an idea of what your child wants to study for their career, then you should research colleges that focus on those majors. That is very important when you are deciding on the right college. Students also remember that there is no rush for you to finish school. Take your time, study hard, and always enjoy life. College is very hard and requires lots of studying and lots of work so always keep focus and don't fall behind. Make friends and have study groups so you can all study together. Never give up. Sometimes you may fail, but don't let it get to you just do better next time. Good Luck!

Grace

Start early looking into school and visit every school you are interested in. Get as much information as you can!

Heather

I fully believe that it is important to do your research. Figure out what kind of setting you would like to live in, what kind of learning atmosphere you strive best in, and what extra cirricular activities you are interested in. As for making the most of your college experience, get involved. Even if its only one club, or volunteering or just making your presence known. You'll find people with similar interests, goals, and aspirations. They can help you study, keep you focused and help you relax and have fun. Scholastically, make sure you devote enough time to your studies and distribute the time evenly. Don't focus too much on one hard subject and leave your other subjects behind. You can get lost in work too easily.