Columbia College-Columbia, SC Top Questions

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

Cassaundra

I would tell my high school self not to be so serious and to learn to have fun. College is the time in your life to find the perfect balance of work and play. Once the work is done its okay to let go, relax and have fun. You don't want to wait to your senior year and realize you don't have any good memories or pictures of your college years. So let go, roll with the punches and go do something instead of staying in your room. Share yourself with the world.

renee

Dear Renee, I know that you are anxious to begin college, but before you get ahead of yourself, I have some advice for you. When you arrive, many people might try to make you feel pressured to choose a major andto decide upon a career choice. Please make sure that whatever you decide to study is based on your individual interests. I understand that you want your family to be proud of you, but you must keep in mind that your career choices are going to affect you for the rest of your life, make sure that you are happy with your decision. Each semester will become more difficult than the previous one, but keep in mind that it is only a challenge because it is supposed to help you grow as you learn to overcome it. Make sure to concentrate on evolving your foreign language skills and take advantage of Spanish, French, and Twi speakers who are around you. These languages that you speak will continue to be useful to you in the future. If you have any questions, send me an email: [email protected] With love, (Self)

Jenna

If I were afforded the opportunity to travel back in time and give my high-school self advice, I would stress the importance of working relentlesssly, and always believing in my ability to succeed. In high school, I was always uncertain of what I wanted to do in the future, and I often found myself doubting my own potential. This affected me not only in the classroom, but in the various musical extracurricular activities that I was a part of. For awhile, my future seemed dim. Entering college has been a journey of self discovery, and a rebirth regarding my level of self confidence, and the ability to realize the amount of skills that I have to offer. As a high school senior who believed she would continue as a music major, I never would have believed that in three years I would have completed an internship at The Walt Disney World Resort, maintained a level of high academic proficiency in college, and would work in Social Advocacy and Policy with the SC Legislature during the 2014 Session. Though I have regrets, I can only conclude that taking the path less traveled has certainly made all the difference!

Jamie

I would tell myself to develop confidence in many parts of my life. Confidence is a necessary aspect of one's freshman year of college when the initial transition is taking place. Oftentimes, people mistake the incoming freshman as being skittish or afraid of the transition. However, with my experience, I've realized that even the most shy of people have found that move-in day of their first year became a liberating experience for them. It is the days, weeks, and months following that desire this amount of confidence which I feel is necessary. As a high school senior, I experienced the senioritis that comes with the last year of public schooling. In the long run, I still wouldn't justify this as the type of confidence I am referring to here. I would tell myself that true confidence can't come from the status that you acquire or the people you find yourself around. It has to come from within in order to withstand anything that has been thrown its way. I would remind myself that if I plan to succeed as much as my dreams require me to, I should develop this confidence early in my career.

Calandra

The advice that I would give myself as a high school senior if I was able to go back in time would be, prepare yourself for college life mentally and financially. I would have advised myself to seek out more scholarships and grants and to utilize student loans as a last resort. My main concern would be school first and then concentrate on work after I've obtained my career. I started at a technical college which allowed me to save money. I obtained two Associates Degrees and decided to further my education to obtain a Bachelor's. My goal after obtaining my Associate's Degree was to land a job making a lot of money. I lost focus of my goals of furthering my education to obtain a higher degree. I don't regret the way that my life has turned out. I'm happy with my life; my husband and my two daughters that I am setting an example for. I trust and believe that I am where I should be; majoring in Behavioral Science. Obtaining this degree is more meaningful now that I can ever began to imagine.

Tiffiny

If I were to back to being a high school senior, the advice I would give myself is to consider future obligations when choosing a major. Consider that you will have children in the future to provide for and pick a career that's going to work with family obligations. Also consider that no matter what career you do pick, anything you will learn at college will allow you to acquire a more effective way of thinking. Secondly, I would encourage hard work in perseverance in college because this is needed throughout life in order to be a success. Remember that you can not only learn from your teachers but from your peers as well . Finally, it is important to pass on the information to future generations so that our world can be a better place.

Karen

I would tell my high school self to get into college and get my education while I was still young and had the time to do so with out all the distractions. Coming back after my kids have both actually gone to college made me realize how important it is. It is harder now because I have other responsiblities to take care of and I have to make many adjustments to get to class on just two nights a week. If I was younger all I wold have to focus on would be getting good grades, taking care of myself and having fun learning who I was in the process. I would tell my high school senior self to make any and all adjustments to get in school and finish school, because it will make a difference in the long run.

arlen

As a mother of two young kids and who decided to go back to school to get a higher education, I advice my fellow classmates that they are on their right path by going to college first before having kids. It is extremely hard to be able to balance life with school work but I have manage to do so. I think that If I could go back in time I would have never thought twice about the importance of a college education. I did not have anyone that push me to go to college, who saw the potential I had when I was young. If I were to go back I will tell myself that I could do it, that I am as equally smart as my other classmates and not to be scare to be challenged. I think that I need it someone to believe in me as my husband believes in me. I know too have seen how far I have come in school and how good I am at it.

Ashley

I would have told myself do not wait and go to school, go ahead now and get it over with. After high school, i didn't go straight to college. I was one of those students that had to "find themselves". Then When I was about 23, is when I started to work on my associates. I have completed it however and are now working on my bachelors,but looking back, I could have been done with both and my masters at this point. So I would have told myself to be more serious about life and make better choices.

Christopher

I would tell myself to take my math classes more seriously because it will cause me some problems in the future. I would also tell myself not to take a break between graduating high school and starting college. The "short break" that I was planning turned into years and now I am trying to make up for lost time.

Shelby

If I had the opportunity to go back and talk to my high school self, I probably wouldn’t speak much. I would write a letter and hand it over to my old self. My letter would say the following: January 2014 Surprised? Who wouldn’t be? But with every great miracle comes a great purpose. I came back because I was given the opportunity to give my past self advice. I have two pieces of advice. Playing for Columbia College’s volleyball team will be a life changing experience. You will be wary of your team and won’t trust them. I know you’ve been taught that trust is earned not given, but it can be a better experience if you let yourself be a part of the team. This leads into my next piece of advice. Don’t be disappointed in others. God’s foremost commandment is to love. Understand that others will not always have the same values as you. People will not always do the right thing. You will be much happier if you accept this and choose to lead by example. Be a leader through actions not words. Work hard and stay diligent. Yourself

Charrise

If I could go back into time, I would tell my high school self, to stay focused on what is before you. That you have the skill and potential to achieve whatever you want. Go to college and find your passion in a field that you will love, not a field that will make you money. If you heart is not in it, no money in the world will make you happy. You are your own boss; you dictate the direction and path that you want to follow. It will not be an easy path, but if you put in the work and effort, it will pay off. Stay prayed up and trust in God when times get hard.

karina

College is alot difrent from high school. you need to get your game straight and get your self on the ball. Apply to as many colleges, pick up your G.P.A and dont settle for less. Take advantage of all the things you have here in school. Get dual enrollment classes, and A.P classes. dont fool around, dont be lazy. I'm telling you because I'm experinceing all the difficulties of the college life. For example the tuition and fees, the housing, and the stress of the classes. Study,Study,Study!!!! dont forget to always study in advance! Leave other things for later you'll have time for that. Please follow my advice right now that you have time to change it and make mine(ours) eaisier. I know for a fact that we can do this Karina. Don't give up on yourself, you have the power to achevie your highest! Because if you dont do this for yourself no one will. Everyone is capable of doing greatness, and we are that person who can make a diffrrence. Not only for ourselves but for the people in our communites. Keep going don't give up!

Cristina

Dear Cristina, You’re 18, you think you know everything; well you don't. Your personal life is going to go through hell. That guy you meet freshman year, well he’s not the guy you end up with; in fact he puts you through a three year abusive relationship. When you get out you find yourself on academic probation, and working 50hrs a week at a Taco Bell to pay the difference. Its okay! You’re going to make Dean’s list, get your aid back, and be so much stronger for it. You’re finally going to figure out what you really want to do with your life, you’re going to regain every ounce of confidence you lost, and you will become so much more aware of both life and yourself. I want to tell you not to make all the mistakes you’re going to, but if it wasn’t for them you would not be who you are now, strong willed and awesome. Life is going to hurt, but I promise you’ll come out on top. So I leave you with this: make your mistakes, and never give up. Sincerely, An older wiser you

Madeline

In high school, I was living in a bubble. Everything was perfect; I got to see friends everyday, I was a top athlete, I didn't have to make any life changing decisions (I had parents for that!), and I was used to the everyday hustle and bustle that was, high school. By Jr./Sr. year my our counselors began trying to prepare us for some big changes ahead. I didn't know where I wanted to go to college (if I wanted to be away from my family), what to do for my entire life, I was only 17! This panic/uncertainty caused me to put off searching/applying to schools. Out of sight out of mind right? I was living in a perfect bubble, I wanted nothing to change. Today I'm attending a two year college, ready to transfer. Knowing what I know now, I would tell my self to be better prepared. Life continues wether your'e ready or not. I would also tell my self not to worry so much. Everything works out even though it might be unclear at first. It might be hard at first but u you will gain rewarding life experience.

Jeffrey

If I had a time machine and could go back in time to talk to my high school self about going college my high school self would look at me like i was crazy. Upon finding my high school self i would inform him that he should'nt be skipping class and to take high school seriously and not to take a break from school. It's better to go straight into college after high school so that everything you have learned in those long 4 years is still freshly engraved in your mind. I would make it very apparent to my younger self that playing around with your education could be extremely costly. Education will get you farther in life than anything else you can do. I believe that would be crucial knowledge for my high school self to know.

Kayla

If I could go back to visit my high school self I would not have much to say other than to apply for more scholarships, work a little harder in classes, and to not worry about the transition, because it really is not as bad as many make it out to be.

dana

To dream your on Dream.

Isabella

Do all the things you never thought you were allowed to do. Be all the things you were never given permission to be. If you do this, you're onto something. If you don't, you are wasting yourself.

Bridgett

There is nothing wrong with the two year college! It's ok to start small in your dreams and work your way up. Sometimes we do not know where or what it is that we are truly meant for and we rush into college because that is what is expected of us. Relax... breathe, and take some simple college courses, find a relatively nice paying job, and work your way up. Don't be scared to tell your family that you are not ready to commit to something as big as a four year college. BE STRONG, because everyone will definitely have an opinion, but nothing really matters if you fail out because you were not ready.

Kimberly

College is not just a learning experience in the academic sense only. College is a life experience. It's sort of a phasing period from being a child and having your parents to take care of you to a period where you learn to be responsible for yourself. It's also a period where you learn about yourself and who and what you want to be. You are mixed in with people from all walks of life. Sometimes this strengthens your beliefs and at other times it makes you aware of new beliefs. College is a growing experience; academically, spiritually, and personally.

Teresa

I have learned that no matter where people come from, it is important to look past the stereotypes and see the person inside. The diversity among the women that attend Columbia College is unmeasurable, but I feel that it has made me a better person, able to bridge the gaps and build relationships with people that are different from me.

Chidonna

My college experience is invaluable. The experience served as the womb in which I developed into a strong, independent woman of integrity. I gained the academic and practical knowledge necessary to become an excellent educator. In 1994, I earned my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education. However, the academic component was just one part of the college experience. In addition to pedagogy, I learned to be a well rounded woman. In college I became much more of an extravert. I was involved in student government, the college choir, cultural diversity organizations, and served on numerous panels and committees. I also learned to relate to my peers in new ways. Living in the dorm with women from all walks of life gave me the opportunities to forge friendships that I would have never forged otherwise. Nothing can compare to the college experience; it remains the best time of my life. My undergraduate studies provided me with the knowledge and the opportunity for social growth. I would have never reached my level of success were it not for college.

CELIA

WELL THIS WILL BE MY FIRST TIME ATTENDING COLLEGE AND I HOPE TO GRADUATE ON TIME. I AM THE BABY IN THE FAMILY AND I WAS THE FIRST PERSON TO GRAUDATE HIGH SCHOOL WITH A DIPLOMA. I HAVE THE HELP OF MY PARENTS BUT THEY AIN'T MAKING ENOUGH MONEY AT LEAST TO HELP PAY FOR MY CLASSES OR MY TEXT BOOKS. TOO ME, IT WOULD BE VALUABLE TO ATTEND BECAUSE I CAN JUST FOCUS ON SCHOOL AND HAVING FUN WITH ALL OF MY CLASSES. AND IT WOULD ALSO MEAN ALOT TO MY PARENTS AND THEY WOULD BE PROUD OF ME.

Chyna

From the moment i started attending college, i saw a new scene. In high school, one is sheltered, but in college, one is able to explore anything. I first met new people. People from different backgrounds, different perspectives, different attitudes. Everyone was different and i have learned to embrace everyone with open arms. As well as the people, i can honestly say i have learned infromation that i can connect to. College has made me excited to see what the future holds for me, both short and long term. Many people go to college because they believe they have to go for a successful life; this is true, but i have decided to go to college to learn more knowledge, and find the answers to questions i have always had. Given this statement, everyday is a new learning experience for me. Everyday i realize something that may or may not be important to my career but my over all goal is to learn as much as i can. College has given me this. The value of college is not only in the degree, but is also in the openmindedness it has given me and the knowledge i have gained.

Kimberly

Although I have only been in college for three months, my college experience has been invaluable. I have learned to make my own decisions. Decisions that may or may not be the right one, then I learn from my mistakes. Going away to college makes you grow up; makes you appreciate what you had and envelops what you want out of your life. I want to be a medical examiner. I can't do that without an education - not only academically but emotionally. Learning to take care of myself, learning what I do or say have consequences good or bad. All of this is life lessons.

Joshua

It has been a wild ride going through college. I can't put into words how much I appreciated the chance to be able to go to college. It was hard and very tireing doing all the classes; sometimes I was overwhelmed by the magnitude of all that was put before me. College was indeed a very different experience from my High School years, and there were times that I longed for the simple classes from High School. I've gotton a real sense of strength from my classes that I am taking here in college, it has helped me to appreciate properly the amount of studying that is required to pass these classes with excellence. These experiences will help me to continue on in my education.

Renee

Going through my short college experience has taught me one important thing; to speak up! In high school, I never was the one to say what was on my mind, I just hunched my shoulders, lower my head and walked through the halls. College has taught me to stand up straight and say what I have to say.

Nicole

I have not been in college for that long but so far I have learned responsibility and time management. I think these to things will come into play and be helpful when I start my career.

Katie

I've gotten social skills from my college experience. As a student coming into college with adequate studying skills, I wasn't all too shocked with the workload and the strategies for passing classes. That came easily to me. What was difficult was making friends. No matter what anyone says around here, cliques do form, and they form within the first few days of college. If I wanted to be able to eat lunch with company every day, I had to make ties with people, which does and doesn't come naturally to me. On one side, I'm good at talking to people. But, on the other, I have difficulty making that into a friendship rather than just a conversation. Being pushed into a new environment forced me to adapt and find my way with creating close friendships, which will carry me the rest of my life. Skills for making money and obtaining information are important aspects of adult life, too, but the ability to form close bonds is something I certainly will not take for granted.

Sherrol

I have gotten friendship that will last a life time.

Mackenzie

I have not had a good college experience thus far... I attend community college as a full time student and also work full time. My experience could be compared to taking high school level classes that I have to pay for. I endeavor to maintain a high GPA and my commitment to my job. I suppose you could say that the value I've learned from these experiences would be balance. I have had to prioritize things and carefully manage not only my time but also a budget. There are college students who haven't learned the personal responsibility I've learned from attending community college. I hope to gain more opportunities out of college once I transfer to a four year university.

Ana

I've gotten a sense of independence and leadership, confidence and self-esteem that allows me to do anything I put my mind to without thinking I should stand back and let others lead me. I can do anything and I will make all my dreams come true and I don't need anyone holding my hand on the way to the top because I've learned how to make my own path. These lessons have been and still are very valuable to me, I love being so strong-minded and independent, it makes more confident in my abilities.

Raynell

Well, first of all, while you are in high school, take as many courses as you can before you graduate. It might be tough, but the best thing about it is when you are in college and you get all of your requrired courses out of the way, you have way more time for fun than trying to get all of your classes that you need at the last second. Also, get into what you really want to do when you get out of high school. Changing your major in college is not a good idea since it could make you stay in school longer and spend even more money for school and no one wants that. Also, be sure to ask as many questions as you can think of when you are in college. It is a possiblity that you may get assigned to a person who does not know their jobs and this may cause you to fall behind in college because that person gave you the wrong information. Last thing that I am going to say is to have lots of fun in school, and skip any years in school to take a break off.

Brittany

Hey Brittany it's you Brittany, enjoy this year but most of all focus on your dreams and career. The hard part of high school is pretty much done and come next year it will be freshman year. Focus on what you love to do not what you thinks gonna make you a lot of loot. When you get to college thats pretty much it from now on if you work hard you will be on the road to sucess. College is pretty much like high school just bigger classes and more freedom. Your on your own in the bigg world you have to deppend on your self and pretty much nobody else. Your a grown up now doin grown up things you will meet lots of peolpe also doing interesting things. Other than that dont stress it to much school is pretty much what you make it. Just study hard and buckel down and always do your best. And every thing else will follow dont you stress. Stay focused and motivated and i know when you go to college you will make it.

Laura

I would tell myself to calm down and stop stressing out. Just remember to study, eat right, and that sleep is a lot more important than you think it is. Get lots of it, you're going to need it. Above all else remember that, everyhting is going to turn out fine. There is nothing here that you cannot handle. Also get to the cafeteria before nine in the morings or all the good food is gone and you're going to be left with nothing.

Stephanie

I would tell myself not to worry so much about making friends, having a roommate, or having hard classes. I realized that I worried a little bit too much before I started school. Although there are some impolite, mean people in the world, most people are respectful and kind if you show them respect and kindness. As for having hard classes, just do your best and definitely stay organized. Keep a notebook or agenda with your classes, homework, meetings, etc. listed. Sticky notes also help to remind you of important dates. Instructors and professors are pleased with students who turn their work in on time and neatly. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand the assignment or a concept.

Charlesa

I would tell myself to go to bed early so that I get enough rest to stay awake during my morning classes. Also I would advise myself to eat three meals a day. Along with that I would make sure I tell myself to keep in touch with family and close friends. But I will also do more to make friends and get involved in school avtivites. And I would tell myself never give up no matter how hard it gets or how much I feel like I will not succeed.

Megan

If I was to go back in time, I would tell myself to stay focus in my study. I would also tell myself to not put off school and that I could do anything I set my mind to. Another thing is to always give 110 percent.

Heather

Start a savings acoount with interest and work harder for scholarships. You do not want this 10,000 student loan. Also, your SC tution grant will get cut. Just work on scholarships everyday; never stop filling out forms. Doing laundry at college is going to be very expensive, but you will find a way to earn enough money to survivie . One more thing, never give up on your ablity to make friends. This will be your best school-year ever!

Ansley

If I could go back in time and give myself advice as a high school senior, I think that I would tell myself that I don't need worry. My study habits were sufficient as a senior and I have been able to keep up with college work as a result of this. My GPA is 3.889 as of this moment. I have kept up with all my work and recorded all of grades and been able to talk to teachers if there have been any discrepenscies. My only advice to myself would be to not worry.

Azmeh

Make sure that you know what kind of an environment you're comfortable in. Also do not discount the choices that your friends are making. It's important to have some people who are close to your culture.

Heather

Knowing what I know now as a college freshman, I would tell myself not to worry so much. College is difficult, but it isn't impossible. I know that I can make it through just about anything. I would also tell myself that college is also different than high school. College requires more work and more time management. Also, making sure to stay organized would be important. I would make sure that I do all my homework early to ensure that I finish it all and do not forget anything.

christine

my advice is very simple : study (that includes reading for class), pay attention to all deadlines, and stay on top of assingments. also, have fun, meet new people, do not take anything too seriously, and get to know your professors. they're good people that will only help. all of this being said, this biggest factor in soccess is simply showing up to class and paying attention.

Taylor

Think of college as an opportunity to experience independent living while still having the security of being part of a family. Don't select your college of major based on where your friends go or what you parents do. This is a chance to try things that you may have thought would be interesting but didn't have access to study in high school. You can meet people with different ideas and values. Crossing paths with them can give you a new perspective and a better understanding of how and why things happen. Find a core of people (friends, classmates, faculty & staff) that you can work with. Make them you safety net. Try to develop new hobbies and interests. Make yourself available to be changed by what you live through in college.

Laurea

I would simply suggest first that students and parents make a list of things that they want in a college and then visit colleges with as neutral attitudes as possible and second that they visit the college to be sure that it has what they want. My belief is that the only sure way to know what you are committing to is to visit the college and get a feel for it. You'll know what feels right.

Ruhamah

Finding the right college as a student is about finding a college that can help you develop into the person that you would like to be and the person who you do not know you are yet. Searching for a college is about having the opportunity to flourish within its programs at the college, abroad, and the extracurricular activities. For parents finding a college for your student is about the college that builds community ties, strong relationships, and post-graduate opportunities for your student. After all the habits that are built in college often dictate later habits. Not only is it about what the college builds for your student, but the setting, finances, and availability of on campus staff willing to aid your student and you as you transition into a student's college life and new habits.

Casscoetta

If I were able to give out advice on choosing the right college, I think that parents should let their children find their own school. Who knows us better than ourselves? College is someplace where we will learn academically, but also about life. Students need to be in a place wihere they can be comfortable enough to be who they are or who they want to become.

Crystal

Find the school that offers the best program for your field of study. Also choose a school based on how well organized their financial aid staff seem to be. For example, if it takes awhile to get forms, or you have to ask multiple times to get a form, you might want to reconsider this school as a choice. Also, make sure the school is accredited. (Some schools lie about their accredidation.)

Katherine

Finding the right college where you will be happy and able to flourish for your entire college career can be quite an undertaking. As a parent myself, when I reflect on my college experience thus far and search for the advice I would pass along to my children, I find so many things coming to mind. I would want my child to attend a safe campus but one that provides them many opportunities to find themselves as an individual and to form tight knit, lifelong friendships. I would want the school's academic program to be rigorous but taught by faculty members that are kind and understanding. Since I am not only a parent but a college sophomore, I can speak from the student's prospective as well. As a student, I like to know that I am safe and protected on my campus. I also enjoy the many social opportunities, clubs, and organizations my campus provides daily. The dorms on campus are superb and feel like a home away from home. Most importantly though, the faculty truly take you under their wing and do everything in their power to help you reach your dreams and realize your potential.