East Carolina University Top Questions

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

Jackson

First I would tell myself to study harder, and study for tests. Try your hardest, and never give up even if things get bad. Don't be afraid of anything no matter what comes your way. Try to get a job even if you don't have one, since you never know what tomorrow might bring to you. I would also tell myself that college is nothing like High School was at all, and it may seem hard at first but you will make it through. You will meet new people you never thought you would know your entire life or even think about. Everything in your entire life well change when you start your journey through college. You will face many new challenges that you have never faced in your life before. Things that you never could happen in your life will start unravel in your first year in college. You don't need to be afraid when you start your college journey. You should try to get a job when you finish high school, as well as study for tests more during your senior year. You might think the change is overwhelming at first, but everything gets easier.

Brienne

Hindsight is 20/20, so naturally many people, if given the opportunity, would use a do-over to change things in their favor. For the most part, I am happy where I have ended up as a Dean's List junior student. I would encourage my past self to still go to community college for the first year to get used to how college classes work. I saved a lot of money doing that. I would push her to make more friends once she got to ECU, because having social connections at college makes a lot of things easier. It's great knowing who you live and eat with and being part of a support system. I missed out on a lot because of my shyness. College is the best place to figure out who you are and to take a chance and experiment, and I haven't made the push to do so. I'm the same high schooI senior filling out applications and the new and improved me has yet to arrive in the mail. It feels like I have been left behind.

Emily

School gets better. The school I chose is amazing and I have made the best friends possible. Don't worry about being away from family, because they email me all the time. It sounds frustrating, but I love waking up to my mother's emails. Learn to manage time between friends, school work, and activities, and everything will be stressfree. Studying is a necessity, but it isn't as hard as it may seem to be. Don't room with your best friend because no one stays best friends, since you find newer and better friends in college. Don't worry about how your father acts, because he just wants you to do well. Stressing only makes you do worse. Even with those mistakes, you still become proud of yourself. Just imagine how it will be without the stress.

John

Take every class in high school seriously. Learn to study what the teachers give you in different ways - try different techniques of study. Underline or highlight the most important ideas in your notes and review them as often as possible. Practice doing assignments ahead of time - this will help you with all the projects you have on your syllabus and managing you rtime. Sign up for lots of clubs in high school so that your socialization skills will be enhanced. Talk to your teachers as often as possible to learn how to connect with them.

April

I always recommend to freshmen to GO TO CLASS! That is critical to succeeding in college. Just go to class, show your face, and let the teacher know that you do care. If they know you care they will be much more willing to help you if you're in a bind than they would if you never attend. Also, ask questions if you don't understand something.

Kathleen

You should not be afraid to try to get the best education possible.

mary

I would tell myself to work very hard because it does pay off in the end and that college is a great experence.

Wesley

During my time at ECU I have not only gained more knowledge, I have also learned about myself and life in general. College is more than just school. It is a transition from adolescences to adulthood. Going to college comes with responsibilities such as buying your books, food, paying your rent, making sure you're up and on time for class, keeping up with multiple due dates, and just being a good student. I have always been told that I am mature past my age, but being in college has made me to mature even more. It has been very valuable for me attend ECU. I say this because being at ECU is helping me better myself. I am getting a quality education at ECU that will help me in my immediate future. Where I'm from most people my age aren't doing anything productive with their lives; so for me to be at ECU bettering myself is a blessing. Being awarded this scholarship would help me stay at ECU and continue to get better.

Samantha

From my college experience, I have learned that if you want something bad enough you have to work for it. That is what it is like in the real world and here at East Carolina the professors mean business. I have learned a lot of lessons from my professors, lessons that can be applied in class and out. It has definitely helped me grow and become more assured of what type of person I want to be and will be in the future.

Miranda

My college experience thus far has taught me a variety of things. Being from Maryland and attending a school in North Carolina there are many cultural differences from the food to the accents and diversity of race. I have also learned that you can't alays just do the things you want to do, you are going to have do do things you don't want to whether you like it or not. You have to manage your time and remember that your work comes first and is most important. If there is anything I have learned well from being in college it is time management. This is valuable in many aspects of your life, from family and friend time, to work and leisure time that you will have to balance all your life. You have to take care of and discipline yourself. That is your job, no one else's. College teaches you life lessons and prepares you for the struggles and real life experiences you will have throughout your life ahead.

Nicole

Attending East Carolina has benefited me in my process to further my education to reach my career goals. But furthermore, college has made me a stronger, more independent individual. I have learned to take responsibility for my own actions in a more mature manner, as well as care for myself.

Austin

Amidst my devotion to find favor in the eyes of each of my professors this semester I have learned some valuable lessons that will carry on into the rest of my life. After transferring from a local community college I was a little apprehensive to the idea that I would grow by leaps and bounds intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Surprisingly though, I have been able to grow in each one of those areas. My course load this past semester was exceptionally hard as compared to past years in high school and at community college so I was driven to stay in the library a little longer and continue to study. From the harder schedule I was able to learn more about what study habits were best for me. Through this schedule I also learned that every moment of social time that I was able to make time for needed to be spent wisely so I could add to those relationships and also glean from them. Most importantly, I was able become more aware of the fact that each person has a finetuned worldview that is different in some way from every other person's, and thus different from my own.

Brandon

I have realized how important it is to manage one's time in order to work hard and maintain good grades while at the same time work to make money and also to make time to enjoy one's social life. Once one learns to manage these things, one will have an enjoyable college experience. It gets tough at times but with hard work and the right support and network, one can easily succeed.

Kendra

What I have gained as an ECU Pirate is that who we were in High School and the stereotypes we were labeled does not define who we are in college. In High School, I was the awkward, shy girl who was afraid to be in the lime light. However, in college I have discovered that I am not awkward, I am quirky. I am fun-loving and intelligent, and overall a likeable person. For the first time in my life I have met girls who are similar to me, who never had a boyfriend and believe that sex should be saved for marriage. In high school, it seemed like I was the only kind of whatever "stereotype" that I was, a good church girl. I have learned that the world is larger than it seemed in high school and that one should not be ashamed of who they were, but love the journey that made them who they are today!

Aaron

I have learned that I should not procrastinate. Procrastination almost caused me some bad grades. I would wait until the last possible minute to do things that I knew were going to be due well before I did them. The stress was overwhelming and I realized I cannot deal with anymore. I also have realized that I should only put myself around people that want to better themselves. I believe that being around people that do not want much for themselves can become a part of me. I now understand that I should pick an academic track and stick with. I have changed my major twice since I have been in college. I have wasted a lot of money on book that could have been avoided. I do not regret going to college though. When my four years are up, I will have my degree. All the hard work that I put in will be shown. I have met a lot of people that I can see being around for a long time. It also has made my past friendships. I have realized who is here to stay.

Lauren

My college experience at ECU has been everything I had dreamed of. The atmosphere is amazing just walking around campus and walking into those classes that are full of knowledge. The professors are great there always there for you when you need them. At ECU I do not feel like a number by no means. I have two classes that have 200 students in them and I can walk up to my professor at anytime and talk to them if Im having any problems with the material or need any type of help they are willing to stay after class or allow me to come and visit them during their office hours. The athletics here are wonderful you totally feel the energy spread thoughout the Dowdy Ficklen Stadium, cheering for my team feels so good. On campus if you yell out PURPLE or GOLD tons of students will yell back the opposite. Being part of this school makes me truely feel like a Pirate for life! ARGGGGH!!!

Haley

I have learned a great amount of lessons and information since I started college in August 2010. I have learned to balance leisure time and academic time. I have met a lot of new people and have been exposed to a variety of new cultures. Being a part of a college campus is valuable because it prepares you for the real world. In the real world you will not always be in your comfort zone or aaround people exactly like you. College has given me countless opportunities to expand my knowledge of the world around me.

Brindy

I have gotten a postive result from Middle Georgia College. I chose this college because of location and convienience to me. So far my college career is a postive one and I plan to maintain this or better yet raise my experiences.. My college career is going to take me far in life and I plan to further my educaction after Middle Georgia College in order to obtain a BSN degree. College is valuable to attend because I am able to further my knowledge to become a registered nurse. I am thankful I have a 3.81 GPA and am able to maintain Hope Scholarship throughout my college experience. I plan to keep this and hopefully increase it as I progress with my college career. Applying for scholarhips will also help me to remain in college so that I may benefit others one day with my career choice.

Sarah

For me, college has been a whirlwind of changes- ups and downs. Before attending, I had no idea what I was in for, as I was going in completely solo. Now that I have essentially "been there, done that," I feel much more conditioned and ready for the world ahead of me. College has helped and continues to help me prepare for that world, the real one. It has been extremely valuable for me to attend because of this. I am more on top of things in other areas, built up more confidence, and became much more responsible than I was in high school.

Samantha

I have actually gotten a lot out of my college experience since I started my first semester this summer. When I first decided to study Human Resources I really didn’t think that there would be that much to it. Human Resource Professionals are more than just a person hiring people or performance evaluators. Human Resource Professionals have to deal with everyday life and everyday life situations of all kinds. Each of my classes has taught me the meaning of a good HR Professional and I am really glad that I decided to pursue my Bachelors in HRL. I am actually thinking of going for my Masters once I graduate next year.

persida

So far in my college career at ECU, I am not only being taught classes that pertain to my major, but courses that help me become well rounded. If you are open to learning, you will achieve a greater depth in any course you take than you ever expected. Of all the North Carolina colleges and universities, ECU is the least expensive. With that being said, the quality of education is excellent. Professors are accessible, tutoring is free, the campus is absolutely beautiful, financial aid is great, and the opportunities to get involved in any organization are limitless. For my money, I am getting what I wished for and then some!

Shannon

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience because being 500 miles away from home; I’ve learned how to grow up and be more mature and live on my own. I had to take on the responsibilities of time management. Also, taking out student loan after loan, strives me to push myself to the farthest I can go to capture the grade I am capable of. Yes there are late nights and early mornings, but I tell myself every day that it will pay off. It has been valuable to attend this University because it is a well-known teaching college in North Carolina and because I’ve met a lot of great people along the way. I also get to cheer for the University and travel to different colleges. It is nice to be able to see a little bit of the country while I can. With this scholarship, it would help me attend grad school and pursue my degree as becoming a Special Education teacher, and it would benefit my students in the long run.

Rachel

So far my college experience has taught me many things. I have learned the value of my efforts and what i can achieve. I have found that I can start and finish anything I put my mind to. Attending East Carolina University has been valuable to me because it has shown me that I can attend medical school. I feel that I now have the ability to not only get into medical school, but to also pass medical school. My experience has taught me that I am a stronger and more confident person who has learned how to be a leader. Before attending East Carolina University I was a shy person who stayed to herself, now I am outgoing and confident in my abilities as a person. It has been valuable to attend East Carolina University because I now feel like a valued person whose opinions matter.

Kristin

My college experience has helped me determine what direction my life needs to take. I have been a student on and off for the last eight years, and I have found that it takes some of us a little longer to find their direction. If I had not been able to attend and sort through the topics I enjoy, I would not have been able to make that final crucial decision of what I want to do. College has opened my eyes to my own likes and dislikes and has helped me become the woman I am today by helping me discover who that woman is. I am not the typical college student and what worked for me might not work for others, but it has been benefical and enlightening process.

Paige

The biggest thing I have learned from college is to be more independent. I liked living at home and having it easy. It's so different now that I have to do things on my own and be accountable for myself. My mom and dad aren't there to help me out. I make my own schedule and am learning to be responsible with my time. I have to pay for my own groceries, which was a shock because they are so expensive! The weird thing is as hard as it is sometimes to be making a life for myself on my own, I like the fact that I can do it. When I was back home over fall break I realized I love the independence of being on my own.

Charles

Living out on my only doing for myself. Making the wright descision in my life.

Molly

I have learned the fundamentals of my major. I have learned that i don't belong at ECU. I plan on tranferring to High Point University next year. I have enjoied my time at ECU, but it just is not for me.

Katherine

My college experience has been unique. Not only have I gained educational wisdom, but personal wisdom as well. East Carolina has helped me realize the person I want to become. When I entered college, I did it to appease those around me. Since being here, I have learned the personal and social value of education. I even decided to expand my knowledge and choose a double-major. I believe that East Carolina has introduced me to some of the most exceptional people I have ever met. I have learned what it's like to have a true friend, and how to be one as well. Socialization is important. Seeing the entire student body come together on game days was a true joy of life. The comraderie of the students supporting the team they chose was not only exciting, but gave an unmistakeable sense of belonging. Education and sporting events are merely one aspect of the college experience, the other is learning how to be an honest, responsible, and generous individual. East Carolina has helped me reach all of my goals, whether educational, social, or personal.

Jamee

I have made lifelong friends, the opportunities that were presented enabled me to make decisions about my life goals. The education I received at East Carolina, has put me on a jetset path to a successful career. I took that education and put it toward my graduate education and I am now a very successful young adult. I would never give up what I have from ECU. I have a family that started there and and will continue. I am very proud to wear purple and gold. And I will forever be a PIRATE! ARRRGGGHHHH!

ELIZABETH

I GOTTEN OUT OF COLLEGE IN ORDER TO TAKE CARE OF MY BABY.IT WAS DIFFICULT BECAUSE I REALLY WANTED TO FINISH COLLEGE. NOW THAT HE HAS THREE MONTHS IM IN COLLEGE AGAIN BECAUSE I WANT THE BEST FOR MY SON. COLLEGE GIVES ME A SENSE OF SECURITY TO MY FUTURE, BECAUSE IT WILL BE THE SKILLS I NEED IN MY CAREER.

kriston

The experience I've had at East Carolina Unviersity has been great! I have had the opportunity to meet wonderful friends and become a mature, independent female. It has been valuable for me to attend ECU because I have learned many things throughout my two years there.

Faryn

I have just enrolled into East Carolina University. I can say my orientation experience with the people and staff I have met gave me the feeling like they care. I got the feeling if this college took the steps to go the extra step to make me feel at home. They welcomed me into their campus as if I was part of their family. I am serious and comitted to starting and finishing my goals at East Carolina University so I make a difference in helping someone else. I already to start my first semester as a college student. I know that I have the drive to help myself out so I am able to finish what I have started so I may be able to help others when they have the chance to attend this University. I feel if this University is this comitted to helping me then I feel that it is important to give back and help others.

Pariss

I strongly believe that everyone who wants a college education, deserves one. I've always looked forward to going to college as a kid, and it is by far the best decision I've ever made. I am also glad that I chose ECU because I can't imagine myself being anything other than a Pirate. Obtaining a college education has made me a stronger person. Going to college has made me appreciate things in life that you can't put a price on. I am so much more grateful for family, friendship, home-cooked meals, encouragement from professors, awesome Facebook pictures, meeting new people, and life in general. Going to college, which has been my life-long goal, gave me purpose in life. College has further more prepared me for the real world and all of the things that I want to experience once I graduate. My college experience was everything I thought it would be and then some. I am a proud senior and I look forward to all of the things I will accomplish in the future. I'll never forget my college experience or how it has changed my life.

DReese

I have learned alot of life lessons that have made me a better, stronger person. From being homeless to failing a semester or two, I have found that college is something you have to want to do for yourself and not for anyone else.

Chelsea

The value of education.

tim

My college expierence has taken me places both my parents never knew. My college degree got me a job at my local hospital. The only thing my dad was afiliated at the hospital was picking up broken down cars. He was a wrecker driver. My mom only visited the hospital. My dad was in his on wrecker business. When he stopped working, the only income he had was his social security. My college expierence allowed me to get a job that has a retirement and a pension plan. This doesn't include social security. I get some many benefits from working as a nurse at the hospital. This would not be possible without going to college. I can provide for my four children and wife easier than someone without a college degree. I don't have to work in the hot tobacco fields anymore. I can work in an air-conditioned enviroment. My career has not stopped like my father's did as a wrecker driver. I continue to better myself with promotions as a nurse. Because of my college degree in nursing, I can work about anywhere in the world. The sky is the limit. Thanks ECU!

Cristina

My college experience thus far has been an ever evolving one. Every day I was faced with new challenges; whether it was learning to live with someone I just met or managing my time properly to obtain goals I set for myself. College is extremely different from high school in the way that as a college student, I was responsible for myself and whether or not I was going to do certain things. I had a ton of freedom this past school year being four hours away from my hometown, but I quickly learned that I wasn?t the party type and focused more on balancing my academic life. In doing so I was able to achieve my goal of making the dean?s list for the spring 2010 semester. In attending college so far from home, I was able to gain a new sense of independence. Being away from home I was forced to grow up, face my fears and take charge of my life. I am not sure if I would be the more responsible, positive person I am today if I did not attend college.

Jonshea

So far in my college experiences becuase im a sophomore, I have learned so many different things from my major and even in social life. I have ,earned about different races, religions and cultures that I experience everyday. IYou never know what you may need or who you may need one day. You meet a lot of people that will be in your life for the rest of your life in college.

Jeffrey

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience. Most importantly, I have remembered most of the helpful things I learned so that I can use this wealth of knowledge in the real world to support my family. I think too many students cram for tests and then forget the material after cramming for the next test. I try to retain what I learn.

Micaela

If I could go back to my first day of college, this is what I'd tell myself. You're not invincible; You're human. Every once in a while, it's necessary to "pull an all-nighter," but in general, sleep is a important. Take care of yourself- eat regularly, and stay hydrated! Surround yourself by people who are equally if not more dedicated than yourself. These are the people who will encourage and inspire you when all you want to do is quit. Get to know the people who share your interest and area of study. They will become your family, your friends, your support group, and your party guests. It?s easier to be dedicated when your friends are right there studying by your side. They will also likely share schedules similar to your own, which makes it easier to kick back and relax together when there?s time for it. With all the talk of being dedicated, also remember that it?s important to have fun. It?s important to take time for yourself. Get done what you need to get done. Then go outside. Enjoy the trees, the fresh air, and the world around you!

Caroline

Dear Caroline, Don't be sad and don't be nervous. Your family is only a phone call away. Don't worry about failure. Our parents raised us with wholesome, strong values and you know you are a strong young woman. Don't forget that you can be great at anything you want to do, so don't be afraid of choosing the wrong major. It's more important to be happy in your career than it is to be rich from your career. While you are taking classes and filling your time with "important" things, don't let yourself think you are the center of the world. Always remember that other people can always use your help. Therefore, don't ever stop volunteering, teaching, and nurturing your faith. You may sometimes feel alone because your friends will forget what they already knew about life and love, but don't let that sway your thoughts and actions. Don't ever let this feeling overwhelm you and remember that people love you for your kindness, caring, openness, and faith. One last thing, make sure you keep a craft project going at all times to keep your life balanced.

Andrew

If I could go back in time and give myself advice as a high school senior, I would tell myself to pay attention. This is not saying that I didn't pay attention in high school. I'm saying that I paid attention, but not to my full extent. As an actor, I'm expected to be immersed in the world I'm living in as the character onstage. I'm constantly encouraged by my teachers/directors to really take in what's happening when I'm on stage or how another character is treating me onstage. In the past 3 years of college, I have learned the depth of which I can focus and pay attention to other people, my surroudings, and myself. I wish I could go back in time and tell myself to pay attention to everything that happens during the day and to take it and and experience life much more fully.

Shana

I would tell myself to not be afraid to go to an event or help session. These events are extremely helpful in numerous ways and even if going alone, there can still be benefits.

Shirley

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about college life, the first thing that comes to mind would be that upon graduating high school, go staight to college while the mind is still fresh. Before graduating , be considering or already have in mind which career field would be of the greatest interest to me. I would also say to always set high standards for whatever goals that are planned out. Always know that all things are possible in life if I only believe in myself and do not give up. Don't be afraid to speak up about what I want to do and be in life. I would say to have good time management skills and not be a procrastinator. Procrastinating only prolongs achieving the goals that you have the best intentions of accomplishing. There are so many opportunities awaiting for me to get the best educational background knowledge and skills if only I take the time and effort to reach out and grab a hold of them. I would tell myself that the ending results of going to college will be well worth the challenges that are to be faced during this career journey.

J'manda

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior about college life and making the transition, I would tell myself to be prepared to be challenged. Meaning I would let myself know that some classes are chalenging and those classes are the ones I need to be prepared for. I would also tell myself that I should be more outgoing and be prepared to meet people who will make a difference in my college career and my future goals. I would let myself know that sometimes I will be lonely but that as long as I have my family and others to support me I will be okay. I would tell myself to cherish my friend although I may lose some of them on my way. I would also let myself know that college is not easy and that not only does it challenge your mind but it also chalenges your social skills and your physical abilities.

Jacqueline

I would make sure that it is understood that while college can be completed in 4 years; for most students that is not always the case. Most college student complete their undergraduate degree ranging from 4-6 years. I would inform that it is not like high school and the grades you may have received there might not be the same as the ones in college. Cpllege is more independent and you are responsible for registering for classes, going to classes, doing homework on time and making sure your tuition is paid. There is no one to hold your hand or make sure you arrive to school on time. There is more freedom but it must be taken in modesty because any mistakes made from freshmen year will follow you throughout your collegiate career. You have more choices on deciding what you want to eat, do in your free time or join. There is much diversity so you should be open-minded to that and willing to learn about things which may be different than what you are accustommed to.

JaLeesa

I would let myself know that just because I had a good GPA in high school will not mean the same once I got into college. I would emphasis to always remember my true purpose of being in college. I know many times students main purpose of once they get to college is to party all the time and they tend to forget about their studies. I would want to tell myself that it is okay to have fun but know how to balance it out with school work. I would let myself know to really work hard on eliminating the habit of procrastination and to work harder on time management skills. I would warn myself of the upperclassmen males who tend to hunt after naive freshman girls only to leave them not feeling so great about themselves. I would say it is fine to go on dates but not to be concentrated on trying to settle down with anybody since that time in life will come eventually. I would emphasis to join a club or sport in order to meet the variety of people on campus. The best advice is to enjoy college since it goes by so fast.

Samantha

I know you are stressed and worried about things that you think will change the world for you. Let?s get serious. The boy who broke your heart will soon hurt too, and not all of your friends are as honest as they come so you must keep the true ones close. I know you hate that teacher, but he has a lesson for you, just like your parents do. You?ll appreciate it one day. As for the rude, immature, and conceded people that surround you, let them know they have a lot to learn too. I know you?re having a difficult time with family situations, but don?t let that interfere with your grades. I promise that it will all eventually pass, along with the pressure of where you?re going to school and how you?re going to make everyone proud. Worry about you. This is your time, and you must prosper in it. There?s a lot ahead of you, keep a strong head and a positive attitude, and only look at the bright side of situations because that?s the only solution to success. Most importantly: DON?T GIVE UP.

Kelly

Most incoming freshmen have many preconceived notions about the dorms on campus and dorm life in general. Some may be true while others may just be common misconceptions. This is a major turning point in many young adults? lives, resulting in a great deal of uncertainty and apprehension. This is the first time many students will be on their own, solely responsible for themselves with no assistance from their parents. There are many adjustments to make and hurdles to overcome that first year of college, including living in a new environment, sharing a space with a roommate, and learning to survive without the familiarities or luxuries of home. College life has to ultimately be personally experienced to obtain and grasp the full reality of it all. The idea of living on one?s own and adapting to student housing may seem unnerving, but it is truly easier to adjust to then one might anticipate. Therefore incoming freshmen should not be intimidated by moving onto campus. Students should be optimistic and embrace this new chapter in their life.

Everett

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to focus more on certain AP courses. I opted not to take more because I wanted an easy senior year. I was not thinking I could have gotten college credit. Also, I tell my self to save more of the money I earned. College is very expensive. Take the time to build friendships with not only other students but with the faculty. These bonds may be crucial in your future--whether it was for a reference or just someone to talk to. Keeping in touch will also be important, whether it is through the phone or on Facebook. Hind sight is always fascinating but everyday, you live and learn. Take the opportunity that you have now because it may not come again.