Eastern Illinois University Top Questions

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

Kayla

Since attending Eastern I have learned a lot about education and technology. Being a child of the new technology generation I thought I had known all there was to most technology, but there was actually a lot that I did not. This school has really helped me learn how to learn and be able to teach with all this new technology, example: smartboards.

Karissa

If I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior about the transition to college I would tell my self to enjoy every moment. After already completing my first semester at college, I realized that life does pass by quickly and there certain moments one can never get back. I would to tell myself to enjoy the first day of moving in even with all the chaos. Enjoy all the new people you encounter, whether they become your friend or not. Enjoy what you read and learn, in every class. Enjoy expanding your mind. Enjoy all the new ideas that you are presented with, whether you believe in them or not. Enjoy every moment that this once in a lifetime experience of college brings, because before you know it, it will be over and you will be on your next phase of life that you should enjoy also.

Robert

Savor every moment with your friends and be open to the new adventures that life may throw your way. Give everything you have at that moment; do not be afraid of the consequences. The worse feeling in the world is regret, live in the moment and take chances. You will regret many more things you do not do than things you do. By taking these chances you will open yourself up to endless opertunities, and then when you finally reach college the adjustment period will not be as tough and awkward. The new aspects you experience at college will be just what you expected if you just live now. Eliminate the words "what if" from your vocabulary and your new world will be everything you have imagined.

Noah

I would let myself know that even though college is hard and not where I want to be, stick through it and get it done. It is so much more fulfilling then I thought. Don't be afraid to change your major if it means doing something you were made for as appose to something others might want or you might think you could like. If you don't love the decisions you make then maybe rethink making them. College is full of possibilities, so don't worry about how long it will take or what other people have done. Just set your mind to what you want out of college, out of life and put your shoulder to the wheel. Make no excuses so at the end of the day you have no regrets.

Jill

I would tell myself many different things if I could go back in time about going to college. I would recommend heavily researching your college you wish to attend and the major you want to choose. I would also tell myself to visit many different campuses to see how each one fits you and your personality. Make sure to look for many different forms of aid to help you or your parents pay for your college expenses. I would also tell myself that it is your first time away from home and is a chance to be on your own with no parents. This can be a good or bad thing because it will teach you many lessons and some people find it very hard to deal with. You have to be responsible with keeping up with school and not letting social events get in the way. Also, you may get homesick but this will pass in time once you meet new people. You have to learn to become outgoing when it comes to meeting new people, the variety of people you meet at college will change your life forever. Stay focused, exercise to release stress, and keep yourself healthy.

Griffin

With the oppurtunity to talk to my former self, my first piece of advice would be to not be shy. College can be a scary place and making new friends can be difficult. If you are not willing to be a little outgoing you might not meet new people. The second piece of advice I would give my self is learn how to be organized and not procrastinate. In high school I often procrastinated, which often led to me doing last minute homework. Once in college I learned how to get work done quickly and it has greatly benefited me. I realize that I should probably be a little more professional in this application, but I just wanted to say how much I truly need this scholarship. My parents are both working 40+ hours a week to pay for my brother and I's schooling and they are slowly losing the ability to afford it. This scholarship is my way to try and help them, and thank them. Thank you for any consideration I receive.

Jaclyn

Knowing what I know about college life , the main advice I could give myself is to be confident in who I am and open to change. Coming from a small town, I was terrified on my first day of college. It was so uncomfortable being out of my small little bubble that I had been in for son long. Even though I was on my College's soccer team I closed myself off and didn't allow anyone to get close to me for sometime. Now seeing that there is nothing scary about College and that everyone has to go through the same transition, it should actually keep you at ease. Reason I would tell myself to be open to change is the fact that you might push a person away that is completely different than you, but then come to realize that you could have so much to benefit and learn from that person and vise versa. College is an amazing opportunity to help yourself grow into a brand new, mature person and discover that there is a whole other world out there waiting to be explored!

Abby

You will meet a lot of people; some will be merely acquaintances, some will be your friends for a little while, and a few will be your friends for life. Those two or three people who really make an impact on you are worth keeping around. Don't sweat the small stuff. It's not worth stressing about. You will be away from your family, your friends and your home for the first time in your life. At first you won't know anyone, but that won't last long. It might be a tough adjustment at first, but hold on. College will be a life-changing experience. When you're overwhelmed with household responsibilities, like mowing the grass and getting the water heater fixed, don't be discouraged. You will be a wiser person for having dealt with these situations. Later in life, when others are just learning how to fix a leaky faucet, you'll already know how. You'll never regret that you worked hard in school, but academics should come secondary to life. Remember that you're a person who has social, emotional and physical needs. Enjoy college while you can; it's over too fast.

KELLY

Take your time, it is not a race to see who can graduate first. There is not a deadline on your education. Just having it is a priceless gift. Know that all of your goals and dreams of becoming who you are will take longer than you anticipated but be patient all your blessings will come to you. Always go with your gut and always...always follow through on your word. Because sometimes in the end that is all we have. Remember who your real friends are they will follow you as far as they can and repsect them for that. Education isnt for everyone, but dont let that hold you back, you are who you are because of your goals and dreams. Education is your key to YOUR success and YOUR dreams not theirs. Your road is only yours and it may be lonely for a while there will be success and happiness with its silver lining.. BE PATIENT.. AND HAVE FUN...THERE IS NO RUSH...

Kari

I was a mother at 19. I would tell myself that what ever life throws at you take it and make the best of it. If a college degree is your dream reach for it, if you have to take one class a semester for 10 years then do it. Don't let anyone tell you, you can't handle it. Believe in yourself, you are your best cheerleader! College is worth it and you can and will succeed.

Chelsey

If I had the ability to talk to myself as a high school senior about college life and the transition involved I would advise my younger self on two very important topics, which is: to live frugally and to not be afraid of change. It is easy as a high school student to not recognize the importance of living frugally, especially when the only funds available are from student loans. While the money may, at first, seem everlasting, college students, including myself, can become rudely awakened by their spending habits and are challenged by the consequences that they must face when they realize that funds are running low. I would also advise my younger self to not worry so much about the changes that will ensue. While the prospect of moving away from home into an entirely new situation may be daunting at first, the move into college life is an adventure that I?ve come to appreciate and enjoy. I would not only be able to tell my younger self that I have found myself growing tremendously because of the change, but that I also have begun new and wonderful relationships with people from all ages and backgrounds.

Jacalyn

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to my high school self I would tell her to calm down and that she will love EIU. I would also give her some pointers on studying and how to study. In this conversation I would advise her on who not to room with and tell her that the showers are not scary and there is nothing wrong with living with a random roommate. Yes there are different people on campus, but I am a different person too so do make sure to open up and let people get to know you from the get go. It's okay to be scared, but everything will work out. Don't overthink friendships people change and it is okay for you to change too. Overall, do have fun and take lots of photos.

Victoria

Many people would tell others that living in the dorms was the worst experience of their lives. However, if i could back and give myself some tips on college life, I would stress myself to move into the dorms. Although I may not like my first roommate, it's a great way to meet new people that I will want to room with. I would also tell myself to apply for every scholarship offered at high school. Scholarships are hard to come by once you are actually in college. I would tell myself to invest in a pair of snowboots. No matter how much snow or ice is on the ground; colleges do not cancel classes. And campus sidewalks tend to flood...alot. So I better get a pair of rainboots and a big umbrella. And no matter what anyone tells you, there is not a cure for the hangover. So don't drink so much that you will be sick for three days straight. I would tell myself not to stress out and to just enjoy everything. You only experience college once so be sure to have fun in the process.

Jessica

The advise I would give seniors would be to have fun but have self control. To manage their time and get there work done. I would tell them to stay focused on their goals and work hard. Your GPA is very important and its harder to go up than down! Also to make the right kinds of friends. If you see there just bringing you down cut them loose!

Melissa

Being 32 and back in school after a number of years, I think I come from a unique vantage point for giving advice to myself as a high school senior. I don't regret the decisions I made the first time in college... I went to a private, 4-year school and graduated with a BFA in Art and Design. However, a number of years after that, I found myself reconsidering my choice of major and realized that my interest in art didn't translate well into a successful, fulfilling career. So now I'm back in school, working towards a new degree in Communications Disorders and Sciences with a goal of becoming a Speech Language Pathologist. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I'd encourage myself to explore all the options for a major, and not assume that early hobbies and interests will translate well into a long-term career choice. For most traditional students, college is very much about growing up and becoming independent, but it's also important to know that the choices you make in college affect the rest of your life.

Ash

I would tell myself to work a lot harder and be much better about saving my money. College is more expensive than I realized, and scholarships are not easy to get. I would kick my butt into gear and make sure that I put away more money so I would be secure. I would also apply for way more scholarships than I did, including the ones that required essays, instead of being lazy. Everyday I suffer for my laziness and stubborness, and I wish I truly could turn back time and do it again. If I had done things right the first time, I would not be worrying about being sent home for not being able to make my tuition payments.

Autumn

Obviously college is necessary to earn a degree and find a career you love, but please remember to take advantage of the resources around you! Whether there is a hobby you want to explore further, a question concerning your resume, or advice on how to live a healthy lifestyle there are not only students seeking the same information but there are professors and advisors who wish you would ask them about such matters. College provides the opportunity to grow in your independence, explore interests you've always wanted to explore, and meet the best friends you've always desired. Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Too go back in time would be an adventure in itself, but if my goal was to give myself advice about the college life, I would have a few pointers. I would make a "To-Do" List and promise to stick by it. I would attend more dorm activites and meetings- becasue the few I did were tons of fun, and more would have been great. I would tell myself to get involved in as much as I could handle. I wish I took advantage of all the awesome things my school offered, such as the honors clubs, dance teams, and fun athletic events. I would soak it all in and take a lot of pictures to remember them by this time. I would advise myself to be friendly because everyone else is a brand new college freshman too, and probably feels just as lost as I will feel. I would exercise more- to avoid the inevitable "freshman 15"- and just have fun! I would remind myself not to give in to peer pressure, and not to abuse my newly found freedom. Ultimatly, I would remind me to stay focused on school and enjoy my years as a college kid!

Lisa

Do you remember the days when your mom woke you up for school? The most significant transition from high school to college is the choice you make to go to class. Attendance is generally not taken in many classes, depending on the size of the classroom, which makes it essentially your choice to go. Along those lines, your schedule will be much different from the one you were use to in high school. Some days you may not have classes, and other days will be typically shorter than what you have experienced in high school. With shorter days and more time to spare, making sure that you manage your time wisely is vital in being successful in college. The key to staying motivated in school is to remember why you are in college. Meeting people and making friends is important, however, your social life is not why you are in college. The biggest mistake I see college students make is the habits and surroundings they fall into, and the priorities they forget they have

Reneesha

If I could go back in time and talk to myself before entering college I would tell myself to make the best of my experience, get involved right away on campus, learn to stay away from people who cause drama and stress, and last but not least do not try to be best friends with your roommate. I believe I should have had more fun my first year than sitting in my dorm most of the time. I believe I should have got involved in many different activities so I could better network with others and to meet some pretty cool people while gaining leadership opprtunities. I think my grades would have been better if I did not have to deal with certian people I surrounded myself with that made my life difficult and stressful and people that were focused on studies rather than fraternity men. I think trying to be best friends with my first roommate was the entire wrong decision because when that occurs you become scared to say something if something you do not like occurs.

MiRanda

If I were able to go back and talk to myself I would start by telling myself to make a decision now instead of wating until the very last minute to get all of the paper work filled out. Also, I would give myself a heads up on just how different college really is from high school. I would be sure to let myself know that due dates, in college, are not just a suggested time to get assignments turned in. I would also warn myself to keep focused and to keep my priorities in line. These next few years will follow me for the rest of my life so do everything in my power to give my best work. I would tell myself to be sure to have fun and not get too extremely stressed out but to make sure I am getting my work done.

Jocelyn

The best advice I could give myself would just be prepared. I believe preparation is key in making a clean and successful transition to and in college . I would tell myself to take the time to investigate different schools and make sure I feel comfortable about my decision. I'd advice taking many college tours and having everything in order such as: finances, room and board, and course schedule once i did decide where i wanted to attend. Grades should be the main focus, so that entails many hours of studying and keeping up on homework. In effect, If "I" keep up on everything then I will have time for fun, activities and social events which is essential to having the time of my life. So doing the best I can and working hard should be priority but having a great time is essential and a perfect balance in having the total college experience.

Trevor

These kinds of questions are always fun to muse on for a while, but they make it so easy for us to ignore the value of the path we've already taken. Certainly there are times when I doubted myself and the choices I've made, where I did not like the path I had travelled thusfar. Those feelings really only reinforce the value of the lessons I've since learned as a result of living through those difficult times. How would I stack the deck in my favor? I wouldn't. If I did, I may have earned my degree already, but I can't say that I would have valued that degree to the extent that I would today, or at all. My resolve to keep going against the odds is a strength that I would be foolish to discard so easily.

Tiffany

I would tell myself to try to as hard as you can to get into the school that you want. Never settle because of the cost to attend. Work hard but also give yourself time to relax and make sure you take advantage of every oppourtunity given to you. Meet as many new people as you can and get out of your comfort zone.

Renae

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would first encourage myself to seek out a counselor and talk to him/her about attending college. I would then explain how college works - the education, the social networking opportunities, and how the job and earning prospects would be almost limitless. There would be discussion about how college would provide me greater earning potential throughout my lifetime and that the opportunities for a fulfilling career (and not just a job) would be far greater than with only a high school education. I would also explain to myself how there were academic scholarships and/or grants for which I would qualify to assist with the costs of college. To wrap up the discussion, I would talk to myself about how an extended education would allow me to never feel inferior to friends, colleagues, or even my children. And since I know how important family is, I would end the conversation by telling myself how I would be setting a great example for not only others in my family, but especially my children.

Michelle

You know that decision that you made to not just let life pass you by and actually get involved...there is such a thing as going too far. You don't need to join every group that asks you to, even if it will look good on a resume - so would not having a mental breakdown halfway through college. Remember to take time to breathe and hang out with the amazing people that you will meet here, and keep that open mind that you're always yacking-on about, it will definatley come in handy with the people that you will meet here. I know EIU was not your first choice, and that you only applied here because dad told you too, but it really is a blast, and you will come to love it here, just make sure that you give it a chance.

Jessica

If I were able to go back in time and talk to myself I would tell myself to prepare to be more independent and confident. College is a time to find yourself and figure out what you want to do in life, and myself as a senior did not expect it. I have learned that being independent is not as scary as i assumed, and going back in time would allow me to tell myself to not worry so much about moving away and being on my own. I would also tell myself that you have to be devoted to your school work. I did expect school to be challenging, but going back in time would reassure mysef what to expect.

Catherine

Don't sweat the small stuff. You made this choice because you know it's the right one for you. Be yourself, and you'll meet plenty of people. Some of them will be the people you can't live without after college and some will just be passerbys on your journey to graduation. Living on your own is going to be tough at the start, but it gets easier. Remember to take showers so you don't scare people away with your stench. Your roommate is in the same situation as you, so just be nice and understanding, and help each other through. It's going to be amazing. Don't hold back. You're ready for this.

Gregory

I would tell myself that the time you put into your education is the most valuable time you can spend while on campus. What you put into your education, you will get out of it. Your social life can wait. Yes, do make friends while on campus, and do join organizations you believe in. However, do not make the mistake that you will lose social status-points because you are "too busy" because of your studies. Your new friends are practically in the same boat as you, so they will get over any dissappointment you cause due to your studies. If they do not, then they probably were not the best friends for you anyway. Just remember: What you put intoyour education, you will get out of it.

Brian

I would tell myself to work hard from the beginning and be confident in myself. It will all work itself out in time.

Jennifer

Take more time on papers and projects. Don't let friends take away from study time. College is important for your future career. Also save money before college so you don't have to work three jobs to help pay for rent, books, groceries etc. And finally be open to new experiences they will help you grow as a person.

Brandy

I would tell myself to make lots of friends and get to know people. Get involved on campus right away with at least 2 organizations. Speek with advisors about class schedules and plan out your years. Also speek with Career Services about resumes and internships. Go to the career fairs and practice networking. Learn who you are right away and figure out what you want to accomplish in your years at school.

Jason

I would advise my self to go to my dream school. Instead of going away after high school I went to a junior college for two years. Although this saved me money I feel it took away the full college experience. After transferring schools, I felt it was hard to make friends and get actively involved in campus. It took me a whole year to feel like Eastern Illinois University was the right fit for me. If I went to my dream school right out of high school, I would had four years to get completely comfortable and enjoy. I would also tell myself to become as active as possible on campus. This helps you make friends and get to know students and staff that you will see around campus. Being active in anthletics and clubs that are related to your major will look good on your resume and help when you apply for jobs. Another important thing I would tell myself is to apply for financial aid as early as possible. Applying for every scholarship possible is another important tip that freshman should follow. Most importantly I would tell myself to fun while keeping focussed.

Ashley

I think I would try to better prepare myself for the amount of time I would need to spend studying and doing homework. High school wasn't very hard for me, so the transition to college work was a big shock. I would also try to prepare better for meeting new people. I am very shy so in the begining it was very hard for me to get to know people and I stayed in my dorm a lot. Thinking back, I would have enjoyed school a lot more if I would have gone to some of the school functions like meet and greets for students so that I could meet more people that were going through the same adjustments that I was. That is the most importnant thing to realize, you are not alone! Almost all the freshmen have the same feelings as you! If you can find people with similar intrests as you, you will be able to help eachother adjust to this new life and you will form a lasting friendship!

Casey

I would tell myself don't be afraid of leaving.. school is fun and don't be afraid to try knew things it will make your life better! Eastern is a great place you will be glad you picked it!!! Make sure to go to the events they are so much fun!

samantha

I would tell myself to plan for school way ahead of time. Also i would tell myself to take foreign language classes and a few physic classes.

Alexandra

College is going to be a drastic change, dont give up right away, stick with it and you will learn so many new things not just in school but from other people around you.

Jasmine

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself that college is way different than high school. I would tell myself not to expect things to come as easy as they did then because college is a time where you have to rapidly mentally and socially. Do not worry about what others say or do, just stay true to yourself because you can do anything. Do not be discouraged nor overwhelmed by stubborn professors and complicated deadlines. College is a place where procrastination is not accepted so keep up with yourself and your coursework. Don't expect professors to treat you anything different from an adult, they expect you to attend class, pay attention, and to be responsible for a syllabus whether it makes sense or not. These are just words of advice but don't let them discourage you, I know you can do anything.

Gregory

I would tell myself that college is totally different than high school, both socially and academically. You are going to college to prepare for a career. That is your top priority, by far. Do not make the mistake of abusing the freedom you will have once you get to school. Wasting time on stuff that is not even socially related, and is still not academically related, is the easiest way for you to dig a hole that is difficult to climb out of. However, do not hesitate to make new friends and participate in different group activities. Remember to only be yourself. There is no one you have to impress (at least, there should not be). Unfortunately some of the same social cliques that exist in high school still exist in college. Even some of the same types of drama still exist. Rise above it. Do not abandon your prior beliefs and values without a lot of consideration. If you run into trouble, ask for help. Trust the people you are friends with to have some sort of knowledge that can help you. Learn from them. Most importantly: Rely on God, because He will always be there for you.

katherine

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to relax and go with the flow. Applying for colleges can be a stressful process, and as an only child, I didnt have many people to turn to for personal experience. I would advice myself to look into specifically what I am looking for in a college, whether it be the size of the school, size of classes, opportunities for social networking, amounts of on and off campus activities, etc.. You cant plan everything, and not everything is going to go according to plan, but sometimes the things you didnt plan for are the ones that you value the most.

Caleb

I would tell myself that you need to get ready for independence. It hits you like a brick wall. In high school you feel independent, and think you need to just move out, and college seems like a get away, but it's not as easy as it seems. I thought I'd go to college live on my own and be just fine. Just go to classes, eat my three meals a day, and hang out with my friends. Not that easy. Hangin with my friends was easy, but after meal plans ran out, I had to spend money on food, so it dissapeared quick. Then classes aren't as easy as high school, because they're spread out and no one cares if you go or not. The advice I would give myself is be ready to be hit with responsibility. If you can be responsible, you'll have no problems, but if you just live it up and enjoy the fun side of college, you could be in for a world of hurt.

Brittany

As a high school senior, I was very studious, in all Advanced Placement and honors classes, and remained involved in my school, being president of Interact Club- our student-led volunteer service organization, and a member of Future Educators of America. At the same time, I worked a part time job at the local grocery store. Through this, I learned a great deal of time management, which has helped me greatly at Eastern Illinois University. I would advise myself to remain focused and well-rounded throughout the end of my high school career, and that the leadership and time management skills I was learning and practicing really will benefit me in the future, both at the university level and in my future career, as a high school mathematics teacher.

Heather

If I could go back to being a senior I would take school more seriously and make it a priority to make it to state in cross country and track. I also would of taken more dual credit classes so the credits can transfer over to EIU that way Id be a few credits ahead over other students. I would of saved up more money instead of spending it over the summer. I never realized how expensive school was, especially when you are paying for everything on your own!

Randi

Growing out of your shell, meeting new people, and getting inolved in your future career is the main point of college. The hardest part about college is staying focus on your studies. and striving to recieve As on your report card. Try to find an equilibrium between having fun and finishing all your school work. Make sure the college you attend suits your personality and allows you to spread your wings and develop within yourself. College is full of temptation knocking at your door, to avoid these temptations, pick and choose your friends wisely. It is time to become an adult and make grown up decisions, this is when you start paving the right path for your future, college is full of drugs, alcohol, boys and people that stir you in the wrong direction, keep focus on why you attended college. Never be afraid to ask your professors for help, make study groups with people in your class, and always keep up with the reading the teacher assigns. Last but not least, stay away from the fatty college food it's not good for you.

Roberto

If I were to talk to myself as a high school senior I would definetly tell myself to stay focused in school. I would tell myself to get involved right from the get go, make some new friends, socialize, don't be afraid, don't be shy, to put myself out there where people will recognize you for being you. Don't be afraid of attention, don't be afraid to try to succeed, don't be afraid of trying your best, be happy for who you are. The transition is very different regarding homework load, but stick to the studies and do well in every class, no matter if the class is boring. I would tell myself to just be safe and don't do anything that I would regret.

Sara

Hello there, former self! It's me... I've come to give you advice on college! Before you choose a college, think about what major you want to pursue. You don't want to have to take extra classes like I do because of indecision! Now, you don't have to know exactly what major you want, but have a vague idea of your interests. There will usually be a core of general education classes you'll have to take, so start with those if you're not sure. What's that you ask? Where should you go to college? Look for a college that has a strong department for whatever you're thinking of doing. You might also consider the distance you'll have to travel. I did horribly when I had to drive half an hour to campus; I dropped most of my classes! But when I moved onto campus, my GPA skyrocketed. If you think the commute will hinder your education, live on campus. Your guidance councelor should have information on different schools. You need to start preparing now. Save up some money if you can and apply for scholarships. College is expensive. Remember to study!

Amber

Being a college student really does have the potential to be the time of your life. Finding the right college is crucial to the rest of your life and your lives memories. It is extremely important to visit colleges before attending them. When I visited Eastern Illinois University, I walked on campus and immediately knew that this felt like home. It felt as though everyone were so nice that i could actually consider it a home away from home. I visited many other universities as well, all of which were just 'okay'. College isn't just about going to class and getting the grades. College is an entire life of its own. It is preparing you for the 'real world'. Many real life issues come up in college and many life long friends will be made.

Danae

I would tell parents and or students looking for the right college to go with their gut instinct and to try their hardest to get into the college of their choice.

ashley

none

Elizabeth

Choose a college in an area that best suits you. If you like a big city, pick a college in a big city, otherwise you will feel lost and somewhat lonely in a rural area. Keep active with intramural sports, running or working out. Talk with your advisor to help with your decision on your major.