Chestnut Hill College Top Questions

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

Steffon

First of all do not think that college is anything like high school because that way of thinking will get you kicked out so fast. College is what decides the future for you, and you have too much to lose if you let this experience slip through your fingers. We both know that we have trouble with organizing and time management so let’s get a planner. We have been blessed to have family and friends that support us but that won't do any good if we don't do what we are supposed to do. Please don’t let all the things they did go to waste if not for your sake then for theirs. The only way we can accomplish our dreams of having a good job so that we can take care of those who got me here as well as those yet to come is by putting all our effort into college. This means we do our best all day, every day so that we don’t just pass but that we excel and prove that we deserve to get our degree. No one is going to do it for us so let’s go.

Shanell

If I could reverse time and inform myself about the future, I would mention that I should not feel so shameful about the person I truly am. My personality closely matches that of an introvert and I am always made to feel uncomfortable about this. It was not common for someone in my family or the schools that I attended to be as quiet as I,so it was (and still is) difficult for me to gain relationships at times, especially now in a college setting. If I could speak to my younger self, I would encourage the thought that my personality is truly beautiful and I should not be easily convinced that something is wrong with me. My focus should be success only. I would motivate myself to learn these things prior to college so I would never have to doubt and question my "normality" in the near future. Speaking to my high-school self, I would advise that the transition would be easier if I accept who I am early on and continue a positive educational route.

Daniel

GPA does matter. I was convinced that athletic abilty in a College with many sport teams would be the only thing that mattered. I quickly found out that the ability to maintain grades while playing a sport was expected by College Coaches. The coaches also look at GPA as an indicator of the prospective student/athlete who will be able to keep up with school work and meet the requirements of the sport. I should have paid more attention to study habits as well so I would have been more prepared for the academic pace at college.

Nicole

All freshmen should know something before coming to CHC. We have this beautiful part of one of our buildings called the Rotunda. And in the Rotunda it is rumored that if you walk down the main front staircase you will not graduate. The first time you walk down these steps should be your graduation day when you process out to the ceremony.

Ashley

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self. I would tell myself not to go to Pittsburgh, to not go to Chatham College for woman. I would explain that while its's a good school it is not a school for myself. That yes I meet good friends there but I also loose some. I would tell myself to go ahead and choose a college closer to home and to make sure to get a dorm there so that I would not have to commute like I have to now. I would pleade with myself that while I'm thinking that going away is good it's not the right decision at the moment. I would also tell myself to make a couple of trips to New York to see the colleges there as well. In the end I would just tell myself that I should apply for a school closer to home and be more firm with my parents when making my decision to attend a college.

Rosalind

I received a lot of life long friendship, a sense of I can do it, and independence, as well as, a bachelors degree. It has been value because I was able to gain the educational components and experience needed to provided adequate care and services to the population of individuals I service.

Kati

My college experience has taught me not only in the subjects that I have been studying but more about life. I have learned how to make a difference in my community, how to help others, and how to be successful in my career as a teacher. Persuing my education has been valuable because I have made many great friendships and I have engaged in personal development. Attending college is crucial for my future success as an educator, mother, and contributing member of my community. When I finish my degree I plan on working in schools that value education and believe in our youth as much as I do. The greatest thing that I have received from this experience, and that I will practice through life, is the will and strength to continue dispite any challenges that come my way.

Leandra

College has been an amazing experience. I have grown professionally and personally. Without college I do not know where I would be. College has kept me on a great path towards success.

Katelyn

It’s very difficult to place a value on my future. The blood, sweat, and tears that I have put into my education certainly have had no numerical value assigned to them. The number of years and dollars may have a numerical amount, but to me they are still priceless when in barter for the best future I can attain for myself. My college experience has been drawn out over seven years, and three colleges, which has been extremely draining on my confidence and bank account. With all the troubles that I have faced in my life I have never lost my persistence in getting my college degree so I can give myself the best possible future. College has taught me how to commit to myself, my work, and my responsibilities. It has further enforced for me that if you want something in life, you have to go through ups, downs, passion, hatred, confusion, angst, and physical labor to get what you want. And that is a lesson that is priceless.

Apryl

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would emphasize the importance of dedication and perserverance. Going to the school that your friends are attending is not the best idea. Going to a school that allows you to grow in the direction you need to in life so you can be more productive and work to your best potential is whats important. Don't think that the classes you are instructed to take are not classes you will need in life. Because many of the class are to make you a more wordly individual. There is something beautiful in a person that can discuess topics that are not directly impactng their life but they are aware of. I would also tell myself as a high school senior "Self be who you are, keep your individuality & most importantly follow your own dreams....not the dreams others have drempt for you."

Julia

Always be prepared, come to class wanting to learn, set yourself up for success, take school seriously, communicate more with teachers, staff, discover the facitlites your school offers and utulize them, get involved as much as possible, make great friendships, network

Alyssa

As a highschool senior I would definitely tell myself that academics are really important because it determines how much money you will receive from financial aid. I would also tell myself to not be nervous and that everyone is scared to be in a new place with all new people but it is the experience that will make it all worth it. It is truly a wonderful privilege to go to college and as a highschool senior you need to choose the school best for you. Drinking will occur at every college but you should stick to what you believe in and do what you feel is right. There will always be peer pressure but you are well respected, most of the time, if you stand up for yourself and do what you feel is right. Ultimately, be yourself you will make friends and have a good time but choose the school right for you. Take your time in deciding and really go where you think you will be most comfortable, no one else's opinion matters.

Simone

If I could go back in time and visit myself when I was a high school senior I would have much advice to offer. I would first explain how college life is nothing to be afraid of rather a wonderfully fulfilling experience that can only lead to positive growth. I would tell my younger self to fear not the journey ahead and to instead embrace it. Do not veer away from college enrollment to seek fulltime employment in the working world, continue your schooling and enjoy the time of a collegebound youth.

Precious

I would advise myself to look at as many scholarships as possible so that it will be able to cover most of the cost for your tuition. Talk to your adviser about what you want to do in your future, they will steer you in the right direction. Pick the school that you can invision yourself being in. Good luck and get started! The sooner th better, never wait until last minute!!!!

Eric

When you get to college, be sure to make a lot of friends early, but remember to continue studying and not to slack off. That'll get you into some monetary trouble as a senior.

Erica

I would tell myself to get in the habit of studying yourself. No one will hold your hand in college and it's time to become an adult. Teachers are not going to ask if your assignment is complete and they won't baby you like in high school. The teacher job is to guide you and you will have to learn on your own. I would also tell myself to work harder in my classes. Although I have come a long way and very proud of myself for acheiving my goal, it would have been easier for me to participate more in Chemistry because it could have helped me so much in my freshman year of college.

Maria

Read more psychology books before entering and take a statistic class. Save more money!

Steven

If I had a chance to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself, or anyone else, to do what is right for you. Instead of going to school for what I truly wanted to become, I listened too much to others, who didn't share or support my dream. I fully believe, now, if I had gone to school to become the Choral Teacher I had always wanted to be, I would have finished college. Instead, I didn't. I also didn't finish a college carreer. So many of my friends are now done with school and I'm now wishing I had finished my schooling. Follow your dream no matter what!

Matthew

I would tell myself, to let go of all the crap that happened at the end of the summer. Go to college, enjoy the life, hang out with your new friends. Actually allow yourself to go down the city and visit other schools with them. Don't be so uptight, and try to befriend Devin, your life will be so much better if you do those things! Also, keep your mouth shut and listen to what others have to say.

Robin

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to keep my options open and go with my gut feelings. I would tell myself to do some research on my interests and think hard about why I want to attend college. I would warn myself about how I switched my major, and try to talk myself out of it. Overall I would tell myself not to worry so much, and that everything works out great in the end.

Brittany

Be confident in your decision and don't take the decision so seriously- wherever you go, you will get a degree and do well!

Jacquelyn

Hey, here is some advice about college life and the transition into freshman year. When you go out to parties, make sure you go with friends, and keep an eye out for each other, and don't put your cup down. When you schedule for classes, look up the requirements for your major so you don't miss out! Don't lend out all your quarters to be nice the first week of school, you'll need them! Get active, and join clubs or sports, it helps you meet people and can be fun! Do not go boy crazy, and party all the time, when you come back next year, everyone will think you're the party girl. Getting your classes out of the way in the morning helps to free up your schedule instead of spreading them out through the day. Have fun and be safe! Leave the high school drama in high school!

casey

find a job that will make you happy. and do what you like

Christina

The advice I would give to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life today, would be to choose a college based on the feeling you get when you step through the doors and meet the people. You will be in that college for four years of your life so make those four years count to the best of your advantage. Ask yourself these questions. Will this school help me grow into the adult I want to become? Is this school ethnically diverse and after leaving will I be cultured? Does this school have all of the ammenities necessary to help me succeed? Do you feel that you could be apart of this college and feel like you would be a great addition to the commmunity? If the answers to all of these questions get your heart thumping and you can envision yourself walking in the halls and socializing with faculty, students, and staff of the college then and only then is when you can say you have found the college for you. Congratulations, you have found your fit.

Deardiss

I would tell parents and students to keep an open mind, and allow God to lead you to the school that is right for you and your family..

Brittany

To both students and parents: Go on college visits and pay close attention. Also, stray a bit from the path and ask random students about their overall experiences. To students: Research all of your options/potential options. Do not take anything too seriously but have a broad idea/end goal in your head abotu your upcoming college career and take that into account while searching. While at school, the best advice is to keep an open mind but do not ever think that you need to feel uncomfortable about who you are to fit in or have fun. To parents: Be supportive but not overbearing or clingy. Do not ever seem apathetic or act like the stress your student feels is childish or dramatic because it's real and awful and may be very different from anything you experienced because of the new expectations of the generation. Be involved and be ready to step in and lend a hand in anything your student may want to explore or talk about.

Julius

If your kid is usually really focused then a larger school might take them away from their focus. A small school forces one to stay focused and on top of their work. Good luck its all about how easily your child gets distracted. . . .but remember to give them space to grow!

nicole

Pick a school that is in an environment that you can enjoy. Make sure you do your work before you have to much fun. Don't give up no matter how difficult it may be.

shanee

visit the school and see which one feels right. after weighing all of the logistics...you must go with your gut

Sean

For parents I would say the best thing to do is let your child decide where he/she wants to spend the next 4 or so years learning, it may or may not be your money being spent, but if the child isn't happy then it may not matter. The student needs to find somewhere they would be comfortable going that has extracurricular activities that interest them and more importantly the major they want and a variety of other majors, just in case you want to switch. The student needs to know that no matter where you end up you can always make your own fun, it's no one elses fault but their own for not enjoying themselves.

Stephanie

Finding the right college is all about feel. You need to feel right on the campus. Don't let price effect too much of your decision. Pick a place that makes you happy and feel like you belong. Pick a school that is flexible with your major and don't settle. You will find a school that has it all so keep looking!

Rosaleen

Pick a school that is good in price and that has a big social base, like a football school

Samantha

Make sure you take the time to visit the school, learn its mission policy, and offers exactly everything you want out of your college experience.

Mark

Make it count.

Altair

Visiting the college is a must. The curriculum may be perfect for the studnet but the environment could be very different. Even if it's out of the way, visit the campus at least once. Take time and care into deciding which school you will go to.

Dan

Ask a variety of students on campus how they feel about the school during a campus visit.

Caitlin

Students should visit any college before they attend to get a feel for what the social life and classroom enviroment is like. You won't truly know if a college is right for you unless you physically step foot onto the campus.

Cody

Choose a school that is right for you.

Kelly

I think when you're looking at a college you need to look for a place that not only offers your academic and extracurricular interests, but also seems/feels like a place that you can grow. Sometimes you don't find this just by doing the college search, but if you can, that's great. You'll be attending, if not also living, at this institution for four years and it is important to be comfortable. Find a place that feels not neccessarily like home, but like a place you can invest yourself in. You're going to be putting money, time, brain power, emotion and energy into wherever you go...it's an investment to all different degrees. Make sure it feels right...talk to students, faculty and staff. Walk around campus, look at the dorm rooms, sports fields, and facilities. Try to sort through the excitement or nervousness, so that you can really make sure you're picking the right college or university. It's your future, and four years of it will be spent wherever you choose, so choose wisely.

Patrick

Finding the right undergraduate college should not be about the best grades, scores or admissions statistics, a bachelor's degree means the same thing almost anywhere you acheive it. The real weight is the depth of devotion and conviction to the degree upon receiving it. Even someone going to community college can go Ivy-League Doctoral if they maintain a 4.0GPA and apply themselves. There is nothing that stands in the way of determination and conviction to academics.

Donnica

I would tell them that the choice would have to be made by the student mainly but should be agreed by both parties. College is a life changing experience and the full experience is not taken seriously as a commuter or a week-residing-resident. Independence is truely taken when you are a full-time residential student doing things on your own and making your own decisions. Also, with the support of your family, especially visits and fund-raisers, it helps to hear from them and engage in this life changing experience with you. So if you go to college, even if you live 10 minutes away like me, try the campus life if not for all four years at least one full year. You can never get that experience back after you graduate.

Duhan

To search extensively and visit the college or university. Have several options to choose from instead of a few. The choice should include the school's academic value, campus setting, size, money, and people.

laura

i would suggest having your student spend more than just a few hours touring the campus. i'd suggest having your student spend the night or taking trips to the school when an open house is not being given in order to really see how the campus and students are, since most campus tours are scheduled on days when the campus is at it's calmest and has the least amount of people around.

Derek

You need to listen to what your heart says, and even if the school seems to be too expensive you should apply anyway because there is a change you will get scholarships or grants.

Jennifer

I would advise parents and students to do as much research as possible. Visit the school as often and they can, make official and unofficial trips they way they can see how the campus is on the regular.

Deirdra

live on campus if you can for atleast one year and visit all the schools you are debating about attending before you make your final descion

Jacqueline

Do your research, and definitely visit the campus of the schools you're considering.

Beth

I would definitely tell them to make sure they visit their college. If they could try to get an overnight there, it would be the best thing. It's one thing if you don't like your school and want to transfer based on classes. Do not give up if the social life doesn't fit your norm. College is really what you make of it. Try to have fun no matter what your doing. To the parents out there, your child is growing up and you need to let them go. Keep in touch because they will always need their parents to be there for them. It's a time for them to grow and experience life and its the first peak into adulthood. Plus this gives you the time to enjoy life without children in the house!

Vashir

Definite;y, look at the college via tour that you plan to attend because that is where you will stay for approx. 4 years. Ask students what they think about the school.

DeVaun

FIND A COLLEGE BASED ON YOUR WAY OF LEARNING.