Central Michigan University Top Questions

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

Lauren

Choose the college that feel right for you. It shouldn't matter about what the hard facts are, as long as you feel comfortable there then you will have the time of your life!

Conor

Make sure you look very closely at where you want to go because you most likely will be spending four years there. The reason being because it is costly to transfer not only because many credits wont transfer but also tuition generally go up each year and some schools lock you in for four years so when you leave you will pay the new high price.

Victoria

College is about to be the most important four years of your life. You need to be placed in an enviornment where you are not only comfortable on campus but where the coursework is just enough for you to take on. Explore your options to grow both socially and academically. Whether you want to major in Business or pursue a degree in the Liberal Arts, you want a college that will fufill your goals for a future career but will also cater to your hobbies and interests. Be sure to visit your college so you can see the sports fields and recreation center if you're interested in athletics. If you enjoy music, make sure that they offer electives that you would consider taking. Last but not least, take a look around and see if the atmosphere it something you prefer. You want to factor in your academics, finances and university life to best fit YOU.

Rachel

Find out all of the information that is important and applicable to you. Talk to students who attended colleges you are interested in, pick up their school newspaper, and definitely make some campus visits. Once you choose the right school, get involved. That way, you meet new people and gain lifelong friendships. If I had a nickel for every time I have heard a man or woman say, "College is where I met my husband/wife..." You can learn so much from those around you. College campuses are full of diversity and are the prime spots to learn about others. Absorb all of the information around you and live your new experiences to the fullest.

Amirah

The advice that I would give students is to choice a school that fits their personality and needs. They should find a school that offers everything from quality academics , lively social life, clubs and associations. They may even what to find a school that offers post graduation support to help them find jobs or to continue their education. I can also advise that the student take every opportunity that is presented to them to further their education and make new friends and network for future contacts. College can be one of your greatest experiences in your life so sieze the day.

Sarah

Alway visit the campus and make sure to apply and look at more than one school, even if you're dead set on going to a certain school, check out your options.

Lisa

I would say that you need to do your research! Its important to go and visit the campus and see if the larger or smaller school is the right fit for you. You also need to research what programs they offer and extra curricular activities are avaliable as well. It helps if you know someone that went to that school. But if thats not available to you, you need to go and do a lot of reseach so when you get there it is everything you expected it to be. Most importantly once you are at college it can be hard at first, but college is the expirence you make it!

Michelle

I would tell parents and students to do their research and visit the college or university more than once. They should also talk with current students before making their final decision. To make the most of their college experience, I would tell them to get involved. There is so many things to do on campus. From joining a groups, clubs, sports, volunteering, social events, etc.

Brandon

go with a college that offers majors that your interested in and dont go to a college becasue thats where your friends are going jsut go with what feels right

Hanna

If I had the chance to give adivce to students and families looking for a college to attend I would tell them to go during a day where students are on campus and really look around. I think that it is important to see a college in-session, rather than just trusting what you have heard. I think that checking the enviorment before entering it will allow you to be sure that you will be comofortable and that it is a place you would want to stay at for several years.

Brittany

The best advice I could give to prospective students is just find a place that feels comfortable to you. It may mean visiting many campuses, but once you find the right college, you will know it's where you belong. A way to make the most out of any college experience would be to get involved on campus. Whether it be an intramural sports team or a student group relating to your academic concentration, getting involved on campus is a good way to make friends and gain experience that will stay with you the rest of your life.

Ken

I would first tell them to find a college and campus that they would feel comfortbale at. If your not comfortable there it doesn't matter what they offer academically. Second I would research the schools areas of study. See how many they have to offer and check out if what your planning to go into is well respected at that school. For instance I graduated with a business degree and CMU's business school was ran very well and was known around the state. Third I would find a school that is just the right distance away from home. For me, that was being two and a half hours away from my hometown. It was close enough to home that I could visit every once in a while but it was also far enough that I could become more independent. Lastly, I would visit as many schools as I could. This is big decision in your life so you want to get it right and be happy with your choice. And remember to have fun, join clubs, play intramural sports, whatever it is you like to do. You will be biulding life long relationships.

Aaron

The only advice that I would give is to follow your dream! I am majoring in Music Theatre along with Stage management, and thus far, I've followed my dream and cant believe how close I am to making it come true!

Ashley

Visit the campus while classes are in session, to get a real feel of what it is like, rather than when it is not full of students. You'll get a better feel for the atmosphere.

Lauren

Choosing the right school and making the most out of your college experience can be difficult and very dependent on the student themself. For me, I talked to teachers that I had as to what was a good choice based on what I wanted to go into. My first school was great for this and I got involved with different groups that made my experience there wonderful! I transfered to this school for its programs and discovered how much I like it here and being away. What is right for you is different for every person. Sometimes it takes some figuring out and lots of thinking to figure it out. It took me going to another school to discover it. I know I made the right decision for myself at the right time in my life. My advice is to truly think about what you want to do and base your decision on that. As for making the most out of your expeience, getting involved always helps but do what makes you happy. Success will come your way if you find yourself happy.

Kyle

Go to school for what you want and be prepared to work for it. College is nothing like the movies, and unless taken seriously many students get overwhelmed and in some cases end up dropping out.

Jaclyn

I suggest to anyone trying to find the right college, that you should visit all of your options and get a chance to talk to professors and administration. Once you have chosen a college, it is really important to get involved in anyway you can, such as a club or become a member of Greek life. Getting involved and meeting as many new people as you can is what I belive to be the single most important thing you could ever do in college. I really wish I would've been told that before I started school here, because the more connections you have the farther you will go in life.

Amy

First off, I believe that speaking with the appropriate academic advisor is necessary and then completing a campus tour. This tour should contain but is not limited to, housing options (on and off campus), financial aid options if applicable, the parking situation, security availabilty, the estimated cost of attendance with books, and extra-curricular activity availablity. Secondly, once the appropriate college has been chosen based on the comfort of the above items then the student should be encouraged to join any and/or all clubs or organizations that may pertain to the student's major. This will allow for an extra way to meet others, interact with others, and make lifelong friends. Living on campus does have it's benefits but living off campus adds more responsiblity to the works. I would advise that after the first year the student should live off campus where they have to take on all the everyday household responsiblities (cleaning, laundry, bill payments, etc.) as well as carry a full load in school. I believe that it prepares students better for the "real world" than if they were to live on campus in a dormatory where everything is taken care for you. Good luck!

Amanda

Visit the campus beforehand and take a tour with a guide who knows his/her way around and information about the school. Take into consideration the cost and map out a financial plan with your son or daughter so they understand that they will not only be responsible for their schoolwork but also their own finances. School is expensive and it is important to figure out the right school for you before you jump in. Don't pay attention to the reputation of the student body because CMU has a bad reputation for those who aren't aware of the campus; students are very academically oriented and care about their futures.

Andrew

Follow your heart. Although this may sound cliche, following you heart is the best advice I can give both parents and students. College is a big decision and deciding what career to go into is an even bigger decision. These big decisions can only be decided by allowing you heart to choose. CLOSE your eyes. Imagine yourself waking up everyday being in a place you love and doing something you love to do. Money is not an issue. Where is it, that truly makes you happy? What are you doing? What job do you have that makes you so happy you go to work early and leave late? Open your eyes. These questions only you can anwer by trusting yourself and following your heart!!!

Clint

I truly believe the family must make a decision on finding the right college or university for the student by where the student feels the most comfortable. Whether it is a big city or a small community. Finding the most options as far as majors and minors would be the seconds piece of advice I would offer. Lead with your heart and where you feel the most comfortable is my advice. You really will find out who you are a person during this expericence. I am still learning about myself. My college expericence has given me that opportunity.

Lisa

Go to school right out of high school if possible. Choose a college based on which one offers the most opportunites and education regarding career of choice. For example if your geared towards biology you want to find a school that specializes in it and has state of the art facilities and quality professors. Some schools cater the program/degree and specialize in certain areas whereas others only offer generalized degrees.

Brad

Look for a place that fits your child the best. All schools have advantages and disadvantages. No school is right for everyone.

Aaron

Don't o to the place you think has the best reputation, make the choice by how the school makes you feel. If it makes you feel good to be there and welcome, place that feeling even ahead of reputation and financial aid (sometimes).

Jessica

When it comes to choosing the right college, one must consider not only the profession they are interested in, but also their personalities. Just because a college looks great in the brochures does not mean it is the right college for the person looking at it. Always visit the campus and the surrounding area before making a final decision. If the student does not like the atmosphere and surrounding, they will most likely be unhappy with their decision. They should make sure school is in session during their visit, so they can partake in campus events and social activities. The students at each college can also influence the decision to go there. Make sure it is somewhere they will be happy with four years down the road, not just now. Once you get to school, be involved. It will make your experience much more fulfilling.

Joshua

When selecting a college, the most important thing to remember is you get out of it what you put into it. If a student wants to succeed at a university, but only has a mid-level gpa at a large high school, then a medium or smaller state school is a good route. A student will get the best experience out of a place that doesn't pressure him or her to make radical life-changes, but has the option to explore different pathways if desirable. Students should explore different things in their freshman year, and use that time to find explore the opportunities each school has to offer. In college, you decide your own level of involvement. Do some research on the personal statements of the schools in consideration. Private schools are good for traditional values, and state schools generally have a more liberal point of view. Those who are neutral would learn best at a mid-sized school with a student population of about 20,000. The college should be proportionate to the student's high school to avoid a shock when trying to adapt to college. Do your best, but avoid complacency and procrastination at all cost!

Jillian

Go on a couple college tours, talk to kids you know on the campuses, and make sure they have the programs you want to pursue

Kate

Don't go somewhere because your friends or boyfriend are going there. If you want to go out of state, DO IT!

Sarah

To find your right college you should visit as many as possible. Without visiting colleges you'll never know what really appeals to you. Whether it's a small-campus feel, a variety of majors, or the proximity to home there's a college for everyone and it's important to visit as many as possible. Parents shouldn't discourage their students to look at out-of-state colleges because of the availability of scholarships out there. A college education is expensive and timely, but completely worth it. Today's world is extremely competitive and college will prepare a student for this. Yet it's important to remember to get out of the library occasionally. Don't allow yourself to only study and forget about your social life; a healty balance is needed. Students should be encouraged to get out of their rooms and meet new people. There are some people who get lucky and get great roommates, but not everyone does. Your roommate is not always going to be your best friend, nor should it be a high school friend. No matter how strong your friendship was in high school, by the end of college it will be destroyed.

Emanuele

Go somewhere that interests you. Don't go somewhere because your friends are going there. The school has to work for you, so make sure it offers courses that you want to take.

Jessica

Central Michigan University is a great University if you don't want to feel "lost in the shuffle." The professors are always willing to sit down outside of class and answer any questions that you may have. There are a lot of different groups to join, and I would certainly suggest joining a group that is focused around the same career goals that you are interested in. In addition there are a lot of extra-curricular groups. Join something that represents what you want to do, where you want to go, or just fulfills a hobby that you have. All in all, my advice is to choose a college or University that suits your needs, and expands your knowledge base. Learning is what college is supposed to be all about, so that should be your main feature in a school. Check out financial aid opportunities through FAFSA because they are INCREDIBLY helpful. Good luck in making this important decision. Follow your heart, and not your friends. Choose the school that is right for you!

Kelly

The best thing to do when going through the process of selecting the right college/university is to take a visit to that college/university. When you take a tour of a school you can really figure out whether you can picture yourself there or not. It just feels like home. It is also important to look at the academic programs and see what the school has to offer and if it is anything you're interested in. As much as people worry about money, it should be the least important thing when choosing a college/university. There is always opportunities for scholarships and financial aid and your decision should not be based on this.

Emily

Get plenty of brochures and information to get an idea what the school is bringing your way. Make sure the school offers the career choice you have made and look at comments students have posted about what the college is like. Go to the campus to get a tour of each college you have in mind. This is an opportunity of a life time to experience.

Bradley

First of all the final decision should be the students choice and not the parents. Second, it will be very helpful to have a future career in mind or a degree you wish to pursue. From this point it is important for the student to visit colleges that have their degree of choice and communicate with older friends and family about the colleges they are considering. The student must feel comfortable and safe about their decision because at some point things will get difficult once they are out on their own whether they claim they are prepared or not. Those things are the primary things to look at. Some secondary things would be price, location, and/or following a friend. I feel that you only have one chance to pursue what you truly have a passion for and you need to go after it regardless of the price, location, and friends. You will naturally select the place you feel the most comfortable and feel you can succeed. And success is the reason you are pursuing a higher education.

Jill

Visit college campuses, and really research into the degree you want to get. A lot of schools have better programs than others. But most importantly, go with where feels right. Where you could see yourself at home. Youre much more likely to do better somewhere that youre happy.

Matt

Take advantage of scholarships. If you don't have a major picked, go to community college and pay attention to transfer requirements

Daniel

Make sure that it is the students choice on where to go to college, and make sure their student has their profession in mind before attending the college. If the student doesn't know, attend a community college. Don't party too much in college, it is not all its cracked up to be, but have fun and be social. You can have a great time without drinking.

Kelsea

Make sure you know that is some where you think you belong. Do not let your parent, friends, family, or significant other stray you from making a choice of what you know you want because ulitmately you have to go there they do not. Keep in mind your future and what would be best for you academically and financially.

Thomas

Do not make a decision on a college based on a teen relationship! Choose a school that has a fun atmosphere at the school and in the surrounding areas. Find a school that is far enough away from home so that the student is on their own, but if they need to go home just to relax they are close enough to do so. Everyone will be asked, not necessarily pressured, to drink alcohol and this something that some students will be able to control, but many will not. Oftentimes students think that drinking a lot at school does not matter. Many students suffer because they think they do not have a drinking problem however, drinking Thursday through Saturday and other times during the week is an alcohol problem and grades drop as a result. This is the time to discover oneself, and figure out what needs to be done to attain what one wants out of life. Work hard, but also save time to relax, meet people, and think about the future. The future may feel far away but college felt far away when we were freshman in high school too. Time seems to move faster with age.

Misty

Don't just pick the college that is the cheapest, it might not be the best quality school for your child's interests. If your child is undecided in a major, send them to a liberal arts college, that will help them become well rounded. Then they can hopefully fall into something they enjoy.

Margaret

Visit alot of colleges and make sure you look at all your options. Dont just pick one, make sure it is the right school for you.

Mike

Don't go where all your best friends are going. Look at every option you have and decide from there. Don't let others influence you; choose for yourself and what you want to do. You can always make new friends, and you can always stay in touch with old friends. Visiting one another is not that hard to do. Picking college is a big decision in a person's life, and it should be made with the utmost care. It is not a decision to be taken lightly. Really go through what each school has to offer, and pick the one that best fits what you want out of a school. Pay attention to class size, campus size, and, most importantly, how much emphasis is placed on the major you want to pursue.

Michelle

Parents and students need to find a college that not only fits the career pathway of the student but fits their personality as well. If you are a person that is shy, then a big campus such as Michigan State would not be a good choice. If you are looking for less craziness or just not wanting to walk that far to class, you should check out a smaller campus. You should decide if you want to be in the middle of a large city, or out in the country. My college is in a small town and I enjoy that, there isn't the hussle and bussle of living in a big city. It is a more relaxed environment. Parents and students should also take distance from home into consideration as well. You should decide if you want to live close to home or if you want to live as far away as possible. These are all things that will start your college experience in a more comfortbable way.

Alyssa

It is very important for students to find a college with the exact opportunities they are looking for as well as one that they feel comfortable with. Parents and students alike need to take campus tours. This is important because perspective students get a feel for the campus and an opportunity to talk to a student attending the school. Parents should also schedule an appointment to talk to admissions as well. That way they get a good understanding about what the school offers as well as finicial aid assistance. Once the student decides the college they want to attend it is very important they talk to an academic advisor. They will help students pick the right courses and stay on track. Once the student picks a major they should sign it and then get further assistance from the major advisor. This will ensure the students graduates on time and with all the right classes! Lastly students need to have fun. They should get involved with things that are different then what they are use to. If they do not like it they do not have to do it again, but they will never know unless they try!

Amanda

I would say look around, don't just settle on where you want to go becasue you should be looking at what you want to be in life and not if its a big ten school, or a party school. It schould be the school that is going to help you do best and get your to where you want to be.

Heather

Visit the campus. Central was one of two colleges I was considering and after visiting I knew this was the one for me. It's the right size and generally classes are small to allow one-on-one interaction with professors. Also, if you know the program you want to enter-- make sure you do your homework and research. Do not go by the name of a college or how well the football team does. This career will be your life so choose wisely and make sure you're getting your money's worth. When you're in, take advantage of what the campus has to offer. Go to the theater, attend concerts, and see speakers. Volunteer! If the dorm has activities, then take part. It's a good way of meeting and making new friends. Don't be shy or scared. You will miss out on so much if you stay in your room.

Amber

Help their kids as much as possible mentally before they get to college to help them better prepare for what is to come. Make sure they are ready for the work load and that they realize college isnt one big party. Research about their career plans or if they dont know make sure the school has a lot to offer in different fields and plan out transperation to and from home.

Andrew

Never look for a cost effective college, and don't push yourselves to go to a school where your family are alumni or where your friends are going. What truly matters is your education. Look for a school that has great programs for the field you are looking at going into. Remember that money doesn't have to be an issue, thats what scholarships and loans are for. Make sure to visit the campus before enrolling, because it is better to find out if you like the feel of a campus rather than having to be unhappy upon first arrival. Once at college, GET INVOLVED! There is no better way of making new friends and finding a new hobby then to get involved on campus. There are many opportunities, from programming, to Greek Life, to student life; the list goes on and on. Getting involved definitely beats sitting in your room. Make sure to keep up on your studies, and remember, "in the end, the only person that you are letting down and hurting is yourself!" Take it seriously, but have a blast while doing so!

Jenna

The best advice I can give is get involved early. You meet so many people that can become your friends and help you as the year goes by. Go visit colleges your interested so you can get a feel of what its like. Don't just go during scheduled tours though find a friend that goes to that college as they can show you what the campus is really like.

Kristen

Relax. Students and parents alike usually become nervous--whether or not it is publicly displayed. Going to college is a huge decision, and though Central Michigan University was not my first choice, I cannot imagine how my life would be if I had not settled in my Mt. Pleasant 'home.' It is safe to say that students are going to be faced with plenty of challenges, not only academically, but in many other ways. For one, living in the residence halls is an experience unlike any other--usually cramming four people into a single room. Respect for others is learned quickly, taking responsibility for your own actions is inevitable, (can't blame everything on your sister) and three complete strangers with nothing in common can become each others' best support system. The risky behaviours associated with college, such as drinking and sex-related activites causes uneasiness with parents and or students. What needs to be remembered here is that college is a learning experience. Students will quickly learn their actions have consequences, espeically if their decisions are not the best. They will live and learn. You don't have to change yourself to fit in. It's a beautiful thing.