Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Top Questions

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

Tiffany

If i were able to go back to high schooll and talk to myself when I was a senior I would tell myself not to wait to go to college and make the best of the opportunity to learn and make a life for my future. I am twenty five now and knowning now the time I have waisted not knowing what I wanted to do with my life and thought college was a waste of time. I would also let myself know that you don't necessarily have to know what you want to major in once you start college. I would tell myself to take a couple of classes of interest and figure out from there what was best and most interesting to myself. The last thing I would tell myself would be having a career is more rewarding and secure for a stable future.

Aaron

In high school, I always had a habit of letting the little things seem much bigger than they actually were. I think everyone does this to an extent, and in doing so they forget about what really matters in the grand scheme of things. I would always worry way too much about what everyone thought of me, regardless of how well I knew or even cared to know them. I still think that one should always try to convey himself in the best light possible, but not at the expense of a true and honest personality. I also used to look at very minor problems throughout the day as major ordeals, which seems to be a prevalent trait within today's youth. For instance, one bad thing such as forgetting to bring in a homework assignment could set me up with a terrible mood for the remainder of the day, and make improving things much more difficult. In short, if I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would probably tell myself to prioritize better, as things can really come into perspective once you're in college.

Heidi

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, it would be to research the schools you are considering. Try to speak with students that actually go to the school and try to observe a day in their shoes. A lot can be learned by speaking to the students who have been at the university for a while. In order to get the most out of your college experience, you need to assess yourself and decide what your goals are, both academically and financially, and how you intend to achieve them. This will lead you to decisions about whether or not you should commute, or live on campus, meal plans, as well as other expenses related to college. What you intend to do with the degree you are pursuing is also pertinent information to have. If you fail to plan, then you are planning to fail, enter college with knowledge to succeed. This means you must do some leg work before you arrive. Once you arrive, plan on attending orientation and familiarizing yourself with your campus and surroundings. Lastly, know what services and amenities are included in your tuition and utilize them! Enjoy the experience it goes quickly!

Autumn

Having the ability to go back in time and give myself valuable advice that I have since learned would have helped me greatly in making the decisions that lead to college. First of all, I would make sure to apply to various colleges. There are always improtant things about a college that can be easily overlooked before being accepted. The most improtant advice that I would give myself would have to deal with financial aid. Taking the time to sit down and write a few personal and well thoughout essays are not as bad as they come across. The hard work pays off in the end. Find every resource for scholarships or grants that you can. The last advice that I would give myself would entail getting involved and becoming the person that you want people to see you as. If you gain your self confidence in high school, that confidence and motivation will carry you through the rest of your life. Never be afraid to stand out and share your opinions and beliefs. Colleges and employers look for individuals who know who they are and what they stand for.

Isaac

If i could go back in time to being a highschool senior, the best advice i could give my self would be make sure i get my grades up and join a sports team try to get a scholarship. College is no different from highschool and it's all about applying yoruself and making the effort. I did pretty bad in highschool but now avg a 3.0 gpa in college. The only problem is finiacial aid instead of having to pay back loans when i graduate i would love to be able to walk away with a degree and no bills. So advicing myself to do good for my senior year or join a sport and try to get sometype of scholarship would be the only advice ic ould give myself, besides do not attend Edinboro university , its pretty boring and cold.

Sara

A major part of life deals with the relationships and interaction with other people. If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know about college life and making the transition now I would tell my self not to worry so much about my grades. Yes, academics are important and should be taken seriously. Yet, being involved in activities outside of the classroom is equally as important, and through the process I could learn more about myself. Fulfillment with in my social interactions would contribute to leading myself into a satisfying and successful first college year experience.

Kimberlee

I f I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to work myself to death as I did. In my senior year I took two AP classes, a college course, and the rest advanced classes. In my mind, I was going to make myself a better college student. I was going to study all of the time and do well on every single quiz or exam. However, that is not quite how it turned out. I ended up working myself too hard. Now that I am in college, I know that studying and doing my homework necessary and helpful, however, you need time to let yourself breathe. Because I took on too many challenges my senior year, my grades and GPA suffered. If I had slowed down, I could have prepared myself for college a bit more. I would have walked into my freshman year knowing that all-nighters are not only bad on test scores, but bad on me as a person.

Michael

Going back in time I would advise myself to continue studying hard, maintaining my grades, and to stay involved with activities throughout the transition. Other advise would definitly be to apply for as many scholarship funds and grants as possible to make life easier once in college so I would not have to juggle two jobs, tuition costs, books, and housing costs. I would definitly appreciate all of the hard work of the teachers at my old highschool because they prepared me for what was to come and i would be greatly thankful for all of their time and help.

Amanda

If I had the opportunity to travel back in time and talk to my eighteen year old self about college, the first thing I would say is, "Find yourself." When I say this, I mean that just because everyone else may seem like they know what they want to do and where they want to go, doesn't mean that you have follow. My biggest mistake was attending the first and only college I applied to and then decided on a major that I wasn't 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure of. The best advice I could give my younger self is to take the time to decide what it is that really makes me happy. After much thought and growing up, I finally found a college and a major that suits me as a person. Not everyone is cut out for college right out of high school. Some people, including myself, need time to explore new options and discover what make them tick. This, I believe, it the ticket to success in finding the right college. Don't find a college that you need to fit into, find one that fits you.

Carol

Not to take a break from school, stay where your at and finish your degree. It gets harder when your older and more expensive.

Lauryn

I would tell myself to not sweat the small things such as making friends. That will come with time and as I get involved. I would also tell myself that several years down the road, I would feel prepared to enter the workforce in about a year and have great connections with the university in many ways. In addition, I would reassure myself after 5 roommates later, I have one of my good friends as my roommate and it makes everything so much easier. Lastly, I would tell myself that it goes much faster than high school ever did, so enjoy it while I am here.

Aimee

When you go into college, never give up and continue to do all that you can to succeed. Make sure you go to all of your classes, only miss them when it is necessary. Don't drop any of your classes, because you'll slowly get through college, and it could take years before you have the right amount of credits to graduate. So, again, never give up and continue to try your hardest and when you need help; ask.

Kristen

The advice that I would give myself is to be more confident in your choices. I was wearing about going to Edinboro at first as I doubted my choice in the school. The first semester was not even over when I knew I made the right choice in this school. They are accepting of everyone and every culture and do not judge, so I had nothing to fear about choosing them. I could not be happier at another school.

April

I would tell myself to get more involved in college from the very beginning. It is beneficial to get involved in activities that you enjoy and believe in from the start of college so you can make the transition easier and make lifelong friends. I would also tell myself that it is important to know what you believe, have goals, and follow through with them so you know what you believe in and stay strong in those beliefs. They will help you through alot of hard and frustrating times. I would, lastly, tell myself not to stress about the little things and not stress too much about the big things. Everything that is suppose to be will work out in the end so there is no reason to stress and worry about anything that needs to happen or get done. It will get done in time, just push through everything. And remember to have fun and make memories. They will last a lifetime.

MARIE

Don't rush in blindly!!! College is supposed to be the best time of your life and you should be sure that you're up to the challenge. I immediately rushed in and signed up because it was what was expected of me. I chose my 1st school because it was supposed to be the "best in the area", not because it suited me or my needs. Now I'm trying again 10 years later and I like to think I'm finally ready to have the "best time of my life" because by now I know I've EARNED the privledge.

Michele

College searching can be very stressful for the highschool graduate as well as the parents. I would definitely say to start looking during your Junior year of highschool. Take it slow. Visit a few of the colleges you're interested in going to. The only way to truly understand and know if it's the college you want to attend is to physically go there. Most colleges will hype up their campus and such on the internet to get students to attend, but you will only know the truth if you go there and see it yourself. Make sure you start saving up a little money here and there from paychecks (students and parents). A little money at a time can add up and help you with the cost of room/board, extra food, dorm supplies, books, etc. If you become really interested in a college, perhaps visit it a second time and take the time to attend a class to see what the classroom environment is like. Most importantly, don't stress while looking for a college. Apply to many and go from there to figure out which one you will attend. Good luck.

Nicole

I advise students and parents to focus first on a major or area of interest, then to narrow down potential schools based on their location, cost, and the impression received from them when visiting campus, along with other relevant factors. In order to make the most of the college experience, students should live on or near campus to have easier access to activities. Students should make an effort to see what groups are available, especially those relevant to potential majors, as they give students the chance to interact with upperclassmen in their field. Upperclassmen are often very willing to offer advice on classes and projects, can help one decide if one has chosen the right major, and may help with networking later. Be sure to keep up with homework and research and form study groups or ask teachers and upperclassmen for help. If one's curriculum allows, one should take a few classes in other fields not directly related to one's major to expand one's horizons and pursue other interests, which builds life and research skills, as well as offering a chance of pace and the chance to meet more people.

Cherice

My first piece of advice is not to make money or the lack of it the determining element for the school of your choice. A lot of times we write off really good schools and the opportunities they will provide after one look at the tuition cost. There are far too many scholarships unapplied for, grants, and financial assistance available from ever keeping a potentially great school out of your reach. Secondly, stick to the basis to narrow your search down. Ask yourself four simple questions. . . 1. How will this school match up to the academic and social standards I am looking for in a school and its community? 2. Does this school offer the best department programs for my intended major or areas of interest? 3. What est. distance would I prefer living away from home? 4. Will I be satisfied with the area's seasonal weather? Once you answers those questions compared to the schools you're considering, you be on your way to finalizing the best choice for you. To make the most out of your college experience is all up to the attitude you carry within yourself. My advice, be positive, proactive, and never assume anything.

Kaylyn

As an upcoming college sophmore, my advice to a perspective student on finding the right college is to make sure you stay ahead of the game. Use your local or school library to find books on colleges and universities, visit college websities and take virtual tours of the school, and most importantly, take advantage of the resources at your high school such as your advisors. They will not bite. They will gladly assist you in finding scholarships that "fit" you and also college fairs in your area. This will narrow down your selection and also make you more comfortable and knowledgeable in what you want in a school. As for making the most of your college experience, get involved. Joining a sport, club, sorority, fraternity, or school organization will gurantee you to become less homesick and more prone to friendships and tones of fun.

Caitlin

When I was in high school I was very worried about college. I thought it would be too hard and/or I'd make no friends. But all of my fears left as soon as I started. I realized there were hundreds of others that felt the same way. Choosing a school was the hardest, I took months and months trying to make sure I didn't pick the wrong school. In the end I chose the one that fit best. I understand a lot of people tell you not to look at the price when choosing your school and that is a good way to choose but let's be honest, money is an important factor in choosing schools. I would say, look at just the schools first and then look at the price 2nd. Also, join clubs of interest, get involved you'll meet so many others that have the same interests that you have. In order to have a great experience don't get too stressed, find your happy medium for time with friends or relaxing and studying. Finally, go in with a positve attitude things will work out better then you may think.

James

I would advise anyone to choose a school of smaller size because i feel that the opportunity to learn more is greater at a University that doesn't have 300 people in each classroom. I would also advise them to pick a University that has many degree fields because i have found that changing your mind with regards to your own future career path is very real. Also, picking a school that is relatively inexpensive will help you not to get bogged down mentally as you get closer to graduation. Choosing a school that is close to where you grew up i believe is also important because it helps the transition process from high school to college.

Daniel

To find the right college some real research is needed. Knowing what you what to study and what you want out of your education are also key. To make the most of a college experience it in very important to be comfortable. Comfortable going to a school far from home and with no one you know can be tough on some students, as well as staying close to home so really sit down and discuss what you want. Be prepared when you go to college, have plans set up to ensure you have enough study time and can avoid getting caught up partying and too many extracirricular activities. Most important, make sure you're ready to go to college, if you need some time to travel or persue some need, it's not a bad idea to do that as long as you stay focused and remain prepared to go back.

jessica

make sure you chose a school which has more than one major which the student is intersted, also be sure to look at activities available which the student may be interested as well as student teacher ratio.

William

When looking at potential colleges it's helpful to consider what you're looking to do. Sometimes thats getting a specialized degree in a field you already know you love, and other times its a stepping stone to deciding where you fit. Schools range in size and location, but that's not everything. Originally attending a large school in my home town, I struggled to find my place. It wasn't until I took a step back and considered what I really wanted to do did I find where I belonged. This happened to be a small, liberal arts college in a tiny, spot-on-the-map school, which originally I would have turned my nose up at, but turned out to be one of the premier schools in the nation in my particular field of study, Computer Animation. College is all about finding who you are as a person, and who you want to be in the future! So, although the partying and nightlife might seem enticing at a particular school while another has a great academic department, consider where you might find the happy medium and ultimately where you want to spend the best years of your life!

Kayleigh

I think that you need to apply to at least three different schools, narrow down from the schools you want to go to and then apply to them. Once you are accepted really read into your major area of study and extra curriculars you want to participate in. Then go on a tour. I can not stress enough how important it is to tour the campus, you will feel it when you get there whether you will hate it or like it. I went to a tour at a different college and from the second i stepped out of the car i was realized it was going to be a waste of time and as the tours started i could just feel that i didnt want to go to school there. Apply for scholarships even if you dont think you'll get them because you might and it's worth it. College is never a bad idea. even if you don't complete your schooling you still learn from teh experience and if you do you will end up with a great career.

Leah

Start early and go with your gut instinct. Helps to know what you want to do so you don't have to change your major. KNow that you want to go to college, don't just go because its the next step. Its a lot of money no matter where you go so go where you want to go. Parents, stay out of it. This is a huge decision for your child and they dont need eight million peopoe given them their own opinion when theirs is the only one that matters. Let your students do what they want and guide them toward what they like not you. Be open to your childs interests. It costs money no matter what just be happy. Spend 50000 dollars and be sad and miserable or spend 80000 and have the time of your life. Either way you have loans to pay for in the long run. :)

Brittani

Try and match the cost with the love of the college and things will turn out for the best!

Christa

I would say that all state schools offer the same quality of education. The only difference is the campus. Find the campus and the weather conditions that fit your personality. And about making the most out of college experience? Obviously school work is #1 priority, but your social life is more important than some people think. Find your scene of people by going to frat parties, or through campus activities, but you need to be happy and fit in your group of friends. Don't get frustrated if it takes you even up to a year to find friends that are simular to you. Bottom line, an individual needs to be able to balance work with play, and for once, your on your own to make that decision. Over all college is an experience in itself, just make sure your grades are up to par.

Sarah

Deffently go up and look at the surrounding enviorment of the college before making the final desision. While your up there, dont be shy to join a club or get involved in something you care about, it helps tou find friends faster and friends that understand you and your intrests. If living in a dorm, dont be shy to meet the people around you. I know from experience its better to make friends around you than to make enemys. To make the best out of college, i say study just what your teachers tell you to, they aren't there to trick you or make you fail like highschool teachers, they really do want to see you pass. Dont take certin classes as a joke, even if the professor is easy. When it comes to test, he/she might be the hardest and you end up failing the class. Just dont be shy, try to make friends because having friends will make you feel confrontable in the enviorment and make sure you work hard on your classes and try your hardest to get good grades. GOOD LUCK !!

Adrienne

I would first look at what kind of educational programs the college offers that will support your major. If you cannot get the appropriate education for what you want to major in, then you need to find another college. It needs to have an extensive program that best fits your needs. I would also look at tuition and housing prices. The university I attended made it very easy for students to apply for financial aid, and that is how I was able to attend. If you cannot afford the tuition, look into financial aid and apply for scholarships. These really help. To make the most of your college experience, make sure that you GO TO CLASS! You need to attend classes to get the information you will need to pass. Also, do not overwhelm yourself in any given semester. If you can only handle 12 credits instead of 18, then just take 12. It does not do you any good to be so burned out that you can't retain anything. Remember...you are in college to learn and prepare for your future so make the most of your time there!

Allison

when it comes to finding it take your time. visit the campus because the schools i thought i really wanted to go to, once i went to the campus i didnt like it at all. so if i had jumped to a decision i could have been stuck in a place a really didnt like at all. check out the facilities especially if you are an athlete because that was a real turn off for me for some schools. make sure you get out and meet people. once i let my self meet knew people i had the time of my life and met some of the best friends i have. keep in touch with your family. no matter how fustrating school can become or how busy you feel you may be. make sure you keep in touch with your family because if you damage relationships wile your away it can really hurt you in the end.

Sheldon

I would tell the parents and / or students that they should find a college that really excites the student and that will push him or her to get involved on and off campus.

Amber

Make sure to complete college visits and talk to a diverse group of students activitly inrolled in that univeristy... it will be EXTREMEMLY helpful!

Tucker

go big or go home!

Kari

I would tell parents/students to look at every aspect: affordability, availabilty, weather, and of course the curiculum. I would tell them that they should be in groups and clubs and to find a support network. To the students, I would say to have fun but to balance that with your school work. Don't slack off.

DJ

Selecting a college is a difficult but very important thing a someone's life. The first thing that should be taken into consideration is the availability and quality of the students' desired field of study. If they are undecided about a major, select somewhere that has a broad range of available courses of study. Another important thing that might be important to people is location. Decide how far they would be willing to go and look for colleges in that area. Visit as many colleges as you can. Some people say you will get "the feeling" when you step onto the right campus for you. Cost and availability of financial aid is something else to consider. To get the most out of the college experience, the student really has to stay focused. It is so easy to get off track and focus on the less important things about college. Having a social life is important and beneficial to the college experience, but it shouldn't be the most important thing. Chosing the right college for you can seem like an overwhelming task, but taking the time to find it is definitley worth being happy for four years.

Megan

I would tell them to start looking for a college once they entered high school and start applying for scholarships as soon as they can. Make sure you choose a school not because your friend is going there, but because it?s the school that best suites you. Do research on the school, and if possible visit the campus and talk to staff and current students and make sure to ask lots of questions and take notes. And when in college keep an open mind about campus clubs, so you can get to know a variety of people and start networking. Don?t be afraid to talk to professors, they are there to help you. What I?ve learned in my college career is that it?s not hard, just very time consuming. So study, always ask questions and smile.

Megan

To find the right college, you need to be picky. Now, picky is not always the best way to go through life, but when picking a college, one can afford to be picky. It is necessary to look at aspects like size, teacher-student ratio, cost, location, the specific major you're looking into, housing options, and affordability among others. Think of it this way, if you are spending the next 4+ years of your life, wouldn't you want it to be in a place that you hold dear and love? Before you decide to go to a college, visit it! Take a walk around, breathe in the air, make sure that you can picture yourself in the environment. It is so important to go to a school that you love, and if you walk into a college-decision blindly, then it is almost guaranteed to set you up for an "experience" like none other! All I can say is that college is the best time of a person's life, and to make it the best, you have to pick the right type of college for you. Happy hunting!!!

Nicole

The best piece of advice I could give to someone about finding the right college is to find out what the town is like when school is not in session. If the town is empty during the summer, you can basically tell the school is going to have limited social activities. If the town does not revolve around the school, there will probably be some fun activities to do.

Erica

Don't pick somewhere that will be easy for you. At the undergraduate level it doesn't really matter about a name either. Try to be outgoing, at least for your first year. You'll meet your closest friends in the dorm, so I'd recommend living on campus--at least at first.

Brandon

First off think about yourself, what you like, what you dislike, and what will make you happy throughout your life! College is a way to prepare you for a fulfilling future of your OWN choosing. Follow your talents and passions and you will be rewarded with a satisfying and happy future!

Whitney

Pick the right college that best suits you. Do not let any one make that decision for you because in the end you have to deal with it. Also do not let anyone force you into going to college if you go go for your self and noone else

Kristen

Have Fun!

Courtney

Finding the best college and having thehe best college experiece possible is not as difficult as one would think. No matter what college you choose to attend, making the best out of your situation is what counts the most. Putting yourself out there and being active in the community and provided activities on campus and off will make being there a much more pleasant experience.

Nichole

If I where to give parents and students advice for finding the right college I would suggest doing a general search on the internet first. With this general search you answer a few question about yourself and what you think you are looking for in a college. Once you have answered all the questions the search gives you a list of results of colleges that meet your requirements based on the questions you answered. Then i would suggest visiting the colleges and meeting with someone in admissions. They are there to answer any questions you might have and provide you with as much information as they can. I also encourage you to take a tour of the campus, sit in on a class, and even try the campus food. In order to make the most of the college experience I suggest keeping on top of your studies as well as participating in some school functions and maybe even join a club. This is a great way to make friends and it can also provide with a support system. I also recomend for the student to set some time aside for themselves. Most of all i recomend to study hard.

David

Go where you want to go. Don't go places because of friends, and make sure you have an extended visit at the school before you choose to commit there.

Whitney

I would suggest that you fully research and visit the college or university that you would like to attend to make sure that you find a school that is the right fit. Try to get involved in activities because its a way to meet people that like to do similar things.

Natalie

Choose the college that you feel a connection to, even if it does cost a lot of money it can be worth it, sometimes chosing a college because it is cheap and you cannot afford any other college is not the best thing to do.

Jessica

I think parents and students really need to do a thorough search of school before choosing the right one. They should look for things like which majors have the most funding, how accessable teachers and advisors are, and how advanced the technology on campus is. My only advice for making the most of a college experience is to get involved. Join a club. It doesn't matter what kind of club it is, every club works. It is the easiest way to make life long friends that share the same interests and ideas. Friends are what make college.

Natalie

if you want to go somewhere far away, do it your freshman year. you can always transfer closer to home next year. definitely party hearty, but keep up with your school work too. make sure you make friends with people you like and don't get sucked into attaching yourself to people just because you're scared you won't make any other friends. and parents, your babies are growing up, if you want to keep them save, you should have locked them in the basement instead of pushed them toward higher education.