Dickinson State University Top Questions

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

Ty

I would start by telling myself that college will be no easy task. But the outcomes of your hard work will lead you to your calling of being a educator. I would also tell myself that you have to have fun while in college or you will burn yourself out. The last thing that I would tell myself is that sports are important in high school but school will always be more important in the long run.

Morgan

Although I do not come from a college educated family, I strongly believe that I was mentally and physically prepared for college as a high school senior. I managed my money well and focused heavily on academics and my performance as an athlete. If I were to give any high school senior advice about college life, as I have already completed a year and a half of it, I would primarily focus on discussing personal expenses and the importance of academics and participating in extra curricular activities. In the world we live in today, money is a primary aspect in being successful. Creating a budget for oneself and strictly following that budget could help in spending money wisely and having it when needed. Academics are essentially the foundation for pursuing one's dream and fulfilling major accomplishments. The feeling of achieving a goal and being a dedicated participant is indescribable, in which I would highly recommend putting forth the effort and being determined every day to accomplish any goal one may have. All things considered, remember to have fun and enjoy your time well spent in college because it will be over before you know it.

Luke

Get on top of things early because college comes up faster than you think. Save as much money as possible because you things almost always cost more than you expect. Make sure you get everything figured out before you go to reduce stress on yourself. If you are going to do a sport you probably won't be able to get a job so be prepared for that and save accordingly. Most of all view going to college as a positive experience and don't become overwhelmed with all the changes that will be happening. This is the start of your life so work hard and go into everything you do with a positve attitude.

Trisha

I f I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself what degree I wanted to do. I have changed my degree once but didn't decide what I wanted to do until my sophomore year. Looking back now, I feel like I've wasted a lot of time deciding. I already feel like I will be spending an extra semester in school and the longer I'm there, the more expensive college gets. I do not have the money to spend extra time in school.

David

When given an assignment do not wait until the last minute to get it done. If a person forgets to do their homework in high school one may have the chance to make up the late work. In college one is lucky if the teacher gives an extra day provided that a reasonable excuse can be given. A second reason is that there are a lot of long term assignments handed out throughout the year. Depending on the assignment, one should begin it at once or at least several weeks before the due date. If one leaves the assignments for the last minute he or she will find that they have built up to a very large workload over the semester. Rushing through the assignment will lower the grade one receives. When given a large assignment do it at least a month advance while giving smaller assignments at least a couple of days. This will relieve the stress of rushing to finish the assignments and will also increase one's grade.

JiYoung

Don’t only focus on yourself but connect with others. Most people in this generation are so focused on themselves searching for the materialistic things. That might be the cause of a corrupted chaotic world. Likewise, I was stressed when I only focused on my own benefit and success. Although I was solely pouring out all of my strength for myself, I was not happy but felt miserable. Being able to connect with others and at least try to be on others' shoe, there is nothing more valuable than that. Having a good study habbit, readingmany books, and memorizing vocaublaries are very important but connecting with others manipulates the direction of my life.

Christina

From about the time I was able to talk, people have been asking me what I want to do with my life. Thoughout my childhood and into adulthood, I gave them answers that I thought they'd want to hear: lawyer, pediatrician, nurse. The truth was that by the time I graduated from high school, I still didn't feel passionately enough about anything to make it into a career. I coasted through my first year of college barely attending classes. I assumed that at the end of four years, a degree would just materialize in my hands. Well, it didn't. At the age of twenty-nine, after ten years of working in a nursing home, (my temporary job as a CNA had turned into a full-fledged career that I felt trapped in), the importance of a college education finally sunk in. I dug in my heels and renewed my college career with a passion, earning straight A's my first semester back, and the following spring my first degrees, and AA and an AS. If I could tell my past self anything it would be this: Do the work. It will change your life.

Antonette

Congratulations on making it this far. I just want to let you know, daddy will tell you; “You aren’t smart enough to go to college.” Regardless of all the hurtful words he says and the actions he will take against you have confidence in knowing, that he can’t dictate your present or your future. By him being your last living parent, you would think he would be more supportive in your future endeavors, but that’s not the case with him. You will later find out that daddy will treat you one way at home and another way in public. All in all, you will see how fake he is. Later in life, he will say, “I should have been more supportive in you going off to college”. So, in order to prove him wrong and to most importantly prove to yourself that you are smart no matter what he says, I am going to leave you with a few nuggets to hold on to. First, study hard, play less. Second, ask a lot of questions. Last, don’t fear the days ahead of you. Do those three things and you’ll be fine.

Nicole

If only we can all go back in time and change the direction of our lives. Wisdom is such a powerful tool in our thinking process and the choices we make in life. The longer we live the more wisdom we attain . Did you ever sit down and talk to your grandparents about life ? You can learn from their life experiences and can probably get alittle bit of good advice to follow. The transition from high school to college can be a bit frightening. You are now at a crossroad and faced with choices. As a high school senior applying to various colleges ,I would recommend picking colleges due to size, settings and programs. Dont pick a college because the weather is warmer in that state, or your friend is attending there. Smaller colleges might be a better transition for someone who wants more one on one with the professors versus a larger university where most communication is done through email because the class is so large. Also tuition plays a major part in your decision, so do apply for financial aid and scholarships . In the end, the decision will be yours, so think carefully and choose the right fit.

Bradley

Be more careful when choosing classes. Don't let the advisor do the selecting for you. I would also have chosen my 4 year institution right away and selected my classes more selectively at the two year institution where I started. Also, I would counsel against taking out school loans when they weren't absolutely necessary. The loans can add up quickly.

Kristi

You really need some kind of education beyond high school to make it in this world. Invest yourself now, take that chemistry class even though you don't need it for graduation now, it might make a difference later. Don't take that year off before you start college; it's too easy for life to get in the way and that year turns into 2, 5, or 10 years. If your not sure what you want to do, go anyway and start taking your generals and other classes that interest you; you will figure it out. School is so much easier when your young, before your married and have children and all the financial burdens that come with life. Make yourself and your future a priority now, don't wait until you have all the other responsibilities to realize whatever security you thought you had could be gone with one small life change that you have no control over. You have to have a back up plan. Prepare yourself now when you can experience college to the fullest and allow yourself to be a part and enjoy what the experience has to offer.

Margie

Although I never got the chance to reach the senior level in high school I'll assume that I was a senior back in 2009. If I could give my senior self advice about college I would let her know that all the talk of college being hard and challenging is just talk. College will only feel challenging if you let it be that way. I'd also let her know that there's nothing to worry about except for school. As long as you keep track of your classes, plan out your free time and concentrate on all your courses, college will feel just like high school just a little different. Being in college is your right of passage into adulthood so be a mature adult about everything you do, say and think. Do not worry about what people think of you because your priority in college is to achieve as a student and to better yourself for your own future not theirs. Be sure to take advantage of all the benefits provided for you and get involved at school to make your whole college experience worth it.

minelly

If i could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior i would tell myself to work harder. To put in a little more work than what i was already putting in because i can always do better. Remind myself to start college right away. Unfortunetly i took some time off after i graduated high school and was working instead. I always feel like that was time wasted and i know i was smart enough to atleast have done both work and school. I would also say not to be intimidated by things people say or how difficult they make college work/life seem because anything is possible. I would prepare myself for tedious paper work and ask my counselour for all the advice i could get about getting started. Reassure myself that college has made me feel a more positive and productive person in a long time. Everything will be fine because i'm a very social, hard working and smart young woman. I just have to believe in myself.

Taylor

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior and knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, the advice I would give myself would be to work even harder and not to slack of that last semester. Messing around my second semester was a huge mistake, I ended up doing bad in my algebra two class which I know I could have done a lot better if I worked at it. I could have pulled all my other class's grades up too instead of just being happy with B or a C.

Kerry

Stick with college and earn your degree. Even if you choose to have kids, keep in school at least one class at a time. That way I wouldn't have been so afraid to go back to school to finish my degree. Learn great study habits, because you will need them!

Travis

I would tell myself that I should apply for many scholarships, because college is very expensive. I would also tell myself that I should study more than you do now. College is very difficult and the tests do not come close to what they are in highschool. I would tell myself that meet as many new people as you can because it will pay off in the end. Highschool does not seem important now, but it will help you out when college comes. I would tell myself to prepare for tests more and study harder for every test and do not stress out so much, but relax a little more. College will benefit you and you will meet new and interesting people. College life is an easier transition then it seems and do not stress about how tough it will be relax and college will be a better experience.

Jacquelynn

I would have to tell myself not to stress over college to much. College is a big deal but, stressing over it will only make the transition worse. Study hard, it will pay off in the end. Pay attention in class and keep my chin up. Don't listen to what others have to tell you it will only scare you off. Try your best and always believe in yourself.

Emily

Do not take everything you own. Dorm rooms are not that big so keep your packing to a minimum. Also don't worry so much, you will make awsome friends so quit stressing yourself out about college.

Travis

I have gotten out of college that nothing comes easy. I have to work extra hard, so i can get into graduate school. Graduate schools only accept the top students of the class, so i have to work hard to accomplish my goal. There are many people that are competing with me in getting into graduate school and having honors and Dickinson State University. It is valuable for me to attend college, so i can get a good job and do not have to worry about money issues when i am older. Many people go through life that did not go through college and have a tough time having money to pay fo the next meal. I do not want that, so i hope with a bachelors degree it improves my chances in life to have a good job. My parents had to work hard to support me and help me get into college and i hope with this degree i can help them out when they are older. Life is hard and i hope with a college degree life will not be as hard for me as it was for my parents.

Hanna

I have not only began the journey to my future but I have learned alot about myself while at Dickinson State University. By being a small school you find friends, you in my case, bring out the best in me and encourage all my thoughts. They are there for me whenever I need them from late night study dates with the library (all most nightly) to social events on the weekends. They have helped me become a better person and I enjoy would I am because of the encouragement from the people here. It is also nice to be walking down the sidewalk and you know 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the people by name, both staff and students. It makes learning easier if you know everyone on a personal name basis.

Brittany

College has been a great experience for me! Not only have a met a lot of new friends but I have also learned alot about my future career. The professors are very helpful when you come to them with questions. They also want what is best for you. College is a huge change from high school because you are learning about what you are interested and makes people want to learn more. I would recommend everyone to attend a college. Going to college will prepare you for your future job.

Kristen

Only being a freshman i have learned alot more about myself and my abilities in college. In high school i was not the best student and did not push myself to be better. After recieving my grades for my first semester i realized i do have potential to get good grades and have a GPA that i am proud of. I have learned how to manage my time better and not get so distracted. I get my homework done earlier than an hour before class and i have found friends in my classes to do homework with. Studying together really helps me stay on track and understand the information in a different way than what i comprehended in class. I believe college is valuable to attend because you have more opportunities with you life. I understand it is exspesive but it is possible with scholarships, grants, and finacial aid. I also have to work while im attending college, but so far it has not affected my grades and i am still finding time to have a social life also.

Therese

Dickinson State University has taught me how to be independent of my family in life and school. I have faced many obstacles during the past year both academically and personally and learning to deal with them by myself has allowed me to grow into an adult. Attending DSU has been valuable to me because the classes I have taken have been challenging but beneficial. Dickinson State is focused on its student's needs and helps them to develop into a productive part of society.

Eyizel

My freshman year of college has taught me a lot because that was the year I made the most mistakes. I lost focus on the importance of being in school and ended up failing most of my classes. I then had to attend community college the next year and lost focus again because I started working and liked the thought of making fast money. I then took a semester off, and in that time I started to struggle financially and one day realized that I would never make as much as someone with a degree. From then on I realized that I was an excellent student my whole life and the key to success is hard work and patience. I enrolled in school once again and this time I will never forget my goal in life which is to be successful no matter how long it takes. I do not regret failing over the years because I feel it is a mistake in which had to learn the hard way.

Tristae

I did things a little backwords in my life and gratuated from high school and had two children right away. I never imagined to go to college after this happened. It is very hard right now but I have a family to support and the only way to do this is with a college degree. I want to be a good role model for my kids to see their dad and I graduate with a degree from college. My parents never attended college and I think that is a reason why I never wanted to go to college. I don't want my kids to feel like that. I am so proud of myself that I am finally doing something that will benefit not only me but my family forever. I have finally realized now that I am doing it that there would be nothing more beneficial to do with my life .

Melanie

College life has also taught me about myself. It took me 10 years to go back to school because I was worried I could not do it. By attending college I have realized I can do it. My GPA is 3.4. College has given me the confidence that I never had when I was growing up as a child. I have realized that with hard work and dedication I can become an excellent nurse.

Danielle

Through my college experience, I have truely learned what it is like to live on my own and have to make my own decisions all the time. I have become a more independent person and I feel that I am ready to enter the real world now. I have also been exposed to many other cultures and students from overseas, as a result of living on campus. I have become more aware of ethnic diversity and have learned many valuable lessons about building relationships with other students.

clayton

This is probably at least the 40th scholarship I have applied for in the past two hours; zinch says this particular scholarship has over 17918 applicants as of today. I would probably even guess that what I am typing right now will never be seen by human eyes, but if it by chance does, this is what I have to say. I am aware that this was supposed to be about my college experience and how it has valued my life to attended, but how can I write about something that's not existent. The only thing I have "valued" from college is that I have to work 40 hours a week at a dead end job to make "ends meat" while also still being in debt for overpriced classes I attend along with books and gas. Also trying to keep somewhat of a social life. In conclusion this is how I feel about your question. I apologize for my audacity and blunt rambling, but I’m just really tired of never winning one of these scholarships and writing fake essays when I don't really feel that way about the topic. Thanks for your time, Clayton Rogers

christine

I started taking college courses in my junior year of high school. At that time I felt Like I was growing up and felt a little special not many of the other students were taking college courses. I started my first year and with every class I felt a sense of accomplichment . I like the feeling of passing one course so I can get to the next level. I feel college has taught me a lot about getting what I need to get done now and not to procrastinate. I never believed my high schools teachers when they said that they were preparing us for college. Now I understand, and now high school doesn't seem as hard as I had make it to be. I believe college is preparing me for the workplace. I am not talking about retail. I have worked in retail for over ten years. I am ready for something bigger.

Michael

I grew up in a small town in Montana, which limited my social exposure. Initially coming to college 10 1/2 hours away from home and not knowing anyone, helped me grow up immensely because I had to learn things and meet people on my own. I think playing football has helped me be more outgoing as well. Since attending college, I've had opportunities to be exposed to a much broader social lifestyle due to the diversity on our campus. I've met people from all over the world, my Freshman year roommate was a young student from Jamaica. My college experience has broadened my horizons, which will help me pursue my dreams in the business field. Without a college education, it would be very difficult to find a job and live the life I've become accustomed to.

Heather

I didn't decide to get my Bachelor's degree until I had been in the workforce awhile. I decided that I didn't want to make $9.00 an hour the rest of my life. So I made the decision to go to college and get my degree. It has opened so many doors for me I was able to advance in my career while I work full time, part time and have a family. I have learned that a college education is very important if you want to get anywhere in life. The better education you have the more opportunities you will encounter. I am really excited about getting my degree and I have learned a lot while going to school. I am a much wiser person, I think more analytically. I have also decided to continue my education and get my Masters. I feel this will only in enhance what I have done so far with my schooling.

Kim

My college experience has been invaluable in teaching me what it is like to interact and work with various types of people and situations. Coming from a small community, I had a narrow view of the world and the people in it. College has helped me to diversify my views and to be more empathic towards others. I have chosen to attend colleges with smaller class sizes for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. These smaller class sizes have allowed me to recieve the attention that I needed from professors and to get to know my classmates. Attending college on campus has been the right choice for me becuase it has helped to keep me motivated and has allowed me to interact with students who are sharing the same goals and struggles as me. Also, the connections that I have made with students and professors throughout my college experience have been great assets in attaining employment and graduate school acceptance. My college experience has helped to shape the person I am today and has helped me to find my passion. I am now on my way to receiving my Master's in Community Counseling through the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND.

Electra

I would tell myself to become more outgoing. In college, you meet new people almost every day and being shy holds you back from what you can really do and accomplish. If you're looking at getting lots of scholarships, make sure you take part in lots of extra curricular activities especially community service activities. If you're not used to sharing, get used to it really soon. You may only have one roommate but it's completely different than having your own room. In my situation, if you don't like public bathrooms you also need to start loving those because in the dorm that's all there is. Be prepared to have a lot of down time between classes. It's a great opportunity to do homework, laundry, or anything else that you need to do but won't have time for once everyone else gets done with classes and you want to hang out with your friends.

Jadah

I would tell myself to work hard at school and to not worry about trying to fit in.

Jessica

To decide on a career & start taking credits 1st year

Oakley

Do not be afraid to get involved with activities on campus, but do not get so involved that your studies will not be the main focus. Go to college and do the things you would like to do with organizations. Do not join an organization or engage in an activity just because someone back home thinks you should be in it. This is a huge step and it is going to be a little rough at first for you, but if you keep your goals in sight and find the activities that please you and make you feel good about yourself, then you will make the transititon just fine.

Sasha

If I could return to myself as a high school senior, I would definitely advise myself to go to Dickinson State Unviersity. I would also recommend that while in high school to take things a little bit more seriously and study a little more, becauses that is all college students do. I would tell myself to keep every paper or worksheet ever done in a college class because they will be needed for the final exams. I would just tell myself to work as hard as I could, try to not get destracted too much, make alot of friends, and have fun.

Amy

I would say to look for an environment that you can enjoy. If you can't live there, and feel comfortable there, you can't learn there. Look for a good, supportive environment. That is the most important thing to find because without that, it is extremely hard to succeed.

Jared

Vist the colleges that you are interested in. Sommetimes the environment is completely different than what you might expect. It is important to like the surroundings around the college.