Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach Top Questions

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

Kenneth

If I could go back in time i would tell my self to stop procrastinating. I would tell my self that i need to get my head out of the cloud in the sense that money doesnt come easy and wont just appear in my pocket. I slacked when it came to finding money for school and now im paying the price financialy because if i dont come up with some money for future schooling i will have to backout of school and im not really the person for quitting something.

matthew

i would definitly recomend this school to myself, and in an interest to save money would have told myself not to apply anywere else. except for the climate i absolutly love this school, it gives me a great chance to get a good job right out of school. the classes are all small, under 20 people usually, and are usuall hands on. the teachers are great and very enthusiastic about their jobs. i wouldnt want to go anywhere but here.

Lyanne

There are the three things I would advice. I suppose is true that colleges often offer you money but once you are there, they tell you another story. First; look for scholarships as soon as possible. Start getting a part time job while in high school. That extra money wouldn't hurt for text books, food, and socializing for college. Saving money earlier on will help you have less deth and teach you about managing your budget. Second; do an intership while in high school and if you get the chance travel abroad and gain some experience. These things could have a great impact on your succcess in college. And lastly you should always focus more on studing than on dating. I have seen many people and myself fall a little behind because of these three things. So work hard and don't give up!

Frankie

Frankie what ever you do don't give up. Keep your mind on the things that are important, and don't let anything or anyone hold you back. You have the ability and the drive to do anything, and be anything that you want in this world. If you ever feel like you can't do it anymore, or if you feel like it's not worth it, i want you to think about Phelix. He's depending on you to make something out of your life and be there to support him with his dreams and goals when HE gets older. Be the man that you deserve to be, and most importantly, be the father your son deserves you to be.

Jovon

I've learned a lot since graduating High School in June of 2009 and their are plenty of things I would tell myself if I went back in time. First, I would take the school and what it offered into account. I applied only to instate colleges because of the cheaper cost of some of them, when really all the schools I wanted to go to were out of state. If I went back in time I would tell myself to apply to all the schools I wanted to go to because then I would have more to choose from and I'd be happier. I would definately tell myself to take deadlines and everything about the college seriously, including money! That's the only reason I'm not at college now. I would tell myself to really be prepared--have everything packed and mailed out--and do everything when it is firt given to me. I'd tell myself to take advantage of every money oppurtunity. I would also tell myself if I went back in time, to be a better student than I was in High School because this time it's serious so be ready!

Ivan

I would let my former self know that I need to be more informed about the college process, financial planning for my post-secondary education, and to rely on finding things out for myself than allowing for help from others such as advisors or other staff/faculty. That resulted in having my parents struggling to pay my tuition year after year and continued to be a problem even until now. I would also inform me to not switch majors if attending Embry-Riddle and continue in the degree program I wished to be in, and also to not fall in love too fast and live with your girlfriend. Big mistake there!

Diama

I would tell myself to go straight to college after highschool and while your there don't take everyday for granted. Each day you do take for granted makes your future harder to reach. Stay positive and welcome new friends even if they aren't your usual crowd, you may need them. And last but not least, take advantage of every resource pertaining to you and your possible career.

Eric

There are many things that I that I know now that would have made college life and the transition easier. The most helpful piece of advice that I would give my high school self would be to visit the campuses of the colleges I was interested in. I did all my research online and made decisions based on what I already knew about the school. The majority of the schools I was interested in were close to my home, so I didnt go and visit the schools as a perspective student. I didnt take campus tours or spend any time on campus getting a feel of what it would be like to be a student at these universities. I think that if I would have done this, I would not have attended the first university I did, which would have saved a lot of time and money. I think that it is very important to experience campus life by participating in campus visits and open houses as a high school student in order to make the best decision for yourself. This is advice I will pass on to my children when that time comes for them.

Darvi

If I could go back and talk myself though high school, I would tell myself to make the highest grade possible. I would tell myself that the grades I make now will effect the rest of my life. I would then tell myself to go and research colleges and find out there expectations for students so that I could maximize my options. Of course I wouldn't pay attention so I would influence myself by chosing the right crowd to hang around. I would then tell myself to start looking into getting a job, any job, so that I could be better prepared for college; that would help me to have a better transition from high school to college, I would tell myself not to treat Airforce ROTC as a joke. I would say to myself, if I work hard now I can play harder later. I would keep repeating the same thing to myself to make sure I get it. Everytime I think I would wonder off, I would tell myself to remember my goals and my dreams and if that wouldn't work I would tell myself to do for my mother.

Adam

As a senior, you are about to graduate and move out into the career world. College is an important transition in preparing for a career. Be prepared to work hard and do your best. College is not easy, especially with the career path you have chosen. College can be stressful with the workload if you do not manage your time properly. You will be required to make complex and split-second decisions for yourself that can, and many times, will change the course of your future. Although college is tough and demanding, it is also the best time of your life. Go out and have fun once in a while. You need to study hard and make the most of every opportunity when it comes and do not wait. Open as many doors as possible and do not close any until you have to. Take advantage of the technology, your professors, and your friends. They are all there to help you, and help anyone that you can any chance you get. Be responsible with your time and get involved with campus activites as well as the career world. College is a learning experience that is worth the time and effort.

Keri

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would probably try to get myself to apply to even more scholarships while still in high school. The school that I have chosen to go to is very expensive, and I was counting on more aid from the government then what I ended up receiving. Although during high school I applied to many scholarships, I wish I would have done more. Also, I would tell myself to be more social. I was involved in my school yearbook, but that was the only extra curricular I did, and did not go out of my way to be overly social. The transition into this small private college would have been easier if I had developed good social skills in high school, because it is rather hard to fade into the background at a small school like Embry Riddle, and networking is one of the best ways to graduate with a career in today's economy.

Alexander

To aim for the stars instead of following Ms. Clevelands advice not to bother trying to get into a good school because I wasn't good enough. I would also tell myself to follow all of my dreams instead of being told it was one or the other by my first college. I would also say to not care what other people tell me I can and cannot do and to always be myself because I will be happier in life doing so than being someone that somebody else wants me to be. To make sure that everyone who has supported me and helped me achieve my current and future accomplishments knows just how appreciative and gratefull I am for their giving me the oportunity to grow as a person and as a proffesional. I would last bestow to continue to work hard and push myself even harder because I have accomplished so much already and in doing so there is no telling what I am capable of and be able to accomplish!

Stephanie

Take time to learn study skills. Pay more attention to the professors while they are teaching. Keep grades up and take more challenging classes, possibly even college credit classes. They may be able to transfer to the college you want to attend allowing you to take other classes, possibly even graduate early. Don't spend too much time on the party scene but join clubs and participate in activities that will help you get to know other people.

Andrew

The challenge of choosing your college is a balancing act between the short term and long term. The location and student life of the litany of potential college selections are examples of characterizes which must be weighed with respect to short term experience. To an eighteen year old kid, the next four years can appear to be an eternity. The immediacy of these and other short term criteria can be a powerful force. However, the knowledge, relationships, and credentials created and earned during your time in college can either server or hinder you for the rest of your life. As a high school senior, the caliber of university with which you will gain admittance is already established. Therefore, focus more on who you are and who you want to be rather than what you want to be when you grow up. Find a school, any school, anywhere that best fits who you are and do whatever it takes to get there. Finding that place that makes you a better student and person will establish a foundation for all of your future success.

Alexander

There are only two pieces of advice I would give myself. The first one would be to study hard and the second would be to take tennis more seriously. I never did much studying in high school; I was always getting C's, B's, and the occasional D. It was not until college that I learned how to study. Repetition, memorization, and a basic understanding of the material is what I strive to achieve now every time I study. As for tennis, I was pretty good at that, but I never took advantage of the opportunities given to me. The tennis coach at my high school was also a real tennis coach; his resume was very impressive. He gave me more then enough chances to become better but I did not make the most of them. He even told me I had a natural feel for the game and that I could use this ability to pay for college. Unfortunately, my focus was somewhere else and now I am stuck wondering... what if?

Nolan

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior I would have made a lot of diferent decisions. One decision I would have made is have more options about my future as a college student. I would of told myself start applying for scholarships early in my senior year instead of waiting till the last second. Also figure out how I am going to have a income. For college life I would tell myself hard work=sucsess. I did not work as hard as Iin high school and now I know why you work first then play later. Transitioning from high school to college can be simple if you make sure everything you need is met before leaving home. ie medical check ups, important documents. Also if you possible try meeting some people that attend the college to help make a more pleasent first semester in college.

Kassandra

If I could go back and give myself advice about college life and the future, I would tell myself to become involved in campus activities early, such as joining clubs, sororities, the Student Government Association, and accept the opportunity to be a part of a varsity athletics team. Social networking is more important than I knew, and i found out that the more people you know in different organizations, the more opportunities are bound to come your way. I would also tell myself that all the time spent applying to scholarships will pay off, and that if you work hard enough and find ways to make use of your talents and skills, you can be a very successful individual. I would also tell myself to be sure to stay focused on maintaining my grades and relationships with professors, rather than what everyone else is doing on the weekends. I am currently very satisfied with my college experience, as I have worked hard and found ways to have fun and meet friends while also giving myself the chances for a brighter future.

Rafael

The advice I would give myself is save money and manage efficiently. Drop the unnecessay data plan service for your cell phone bill and buy only the books that are actually used in class. Bring your social security card in order to take the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test in time to be considered for a scholarship. During your first registration, gather more information on your professors and courses like Humanities and Calculus to make the best selection for spring semester. Lastly, never underestimate courses especially because of prior knowlege in college and possibly graduate school.

Natalie

Make sure to have your priorities in line. Having a great GPA is a big part in landing a good job. Another big part is having experience and that comes from internships and Co-ops. And in order to qualify for an internship or co-op, you must have a good GPA. So number one priority is to make sure your grades are ok. Next would be to get involved. Gain as much leadership skills as you can by joining clubs and organizations that interest you. Join groups that have different backgrounds than others to diversify yourself more. Also your social life will be growing by meeting new people. Your goal is to become a well rounded individual. Lastly be passionate about your future. You only go through undergraduate college life once, so make the best out of it as possible. Its simple if you don't love your major than change it. If you don't have passion for the degree you are majoring in, then its going to be that much harder to excell in it. Remember grades are #1!

Jacquelyn

You made the best decisions of your life going far away to school and joining a sorority. Everything works out pretty perfectly so you shouldn't stress out. You'll still have all your friends back in Massachusetts.

Melissa

Hey, it will be hard at first, harder than you expect. Some things will happen to you, but you will be fine. Don't worry about Tropical Storm Fay, it won't affect orientation too much. Join a few clubs, you will be glad that you did. Take every opprotunity you can to go to physics tutoring. When it comes to finals, study a little bit harder for all of them. You and your roommate will have issues for reasons unknown. Try talking more to her and maybe it won't be so bad. The lack of girls on campus will eventually get to you. Make friends and stick with them. Don't worry too much about GPA. Yes it is important, but don't make it your life. A 'B' is okay. You'll do fine at school. Stick to the plan and you'll do great! Have fun!

Kathleen

I would tell myself to to attend community college first to get math, reading, and IT classes out of the way in order to save money and stay at home longer. I also would advise myself to get my provate pilot rating before attending Embry-Riddle in order to save myself the headache I've gone through.

Travis

The one thing I wish that I would have done is to start looking for a college earlier. The sooner you start looking and applying to schools and scholarships the more enjoyable and less stressful your senior year of high school will be. As far as the college experience goes it is simple. It is the same as everything else in life; you get out of it what you put into it. Show up and blow up. College is about getting an education but it is also about making life-long friends and having a good time. If you show up with a good attitude and looking to have fun while learning more than you ever have, that is what will happen. The same is true if you show up thinking you will never make any friends or that college is just about drinking and partying.

Elizabeth

The best advice I can give students and parents looking into college is to start early. The earlier you start the better. When I was in high school, I thought for sure that I would be going to this one school, I thought it was perfect for me. Then, in my junior year of high school, I visited the campus and absolutely hated it. I never even knew what I liked in a college until I went there and found out. The more time you have to visit campuses, explore different programs, and talk to students and alumni at that college, the more likely you are to find a college and a program that is right for you. Also, once you know where you want to go and what you want to do, you have more time to apply for scholarships and loans. I spent most of my senior year of high school applying for every scholarship I could find. As a result, I ended up recieving over $50,000 in scholarship throughout my four years at school. In short, my advice to someone just going into college is: start early, find what you like, and then apply apply apply.

Martin

I believe what parents and students alike should do to discover what they want to study and accomplish in life is to find something that their good at and love doing on a daily basis. If you're a parent and you notice your student is always talking about airplanes for example, then begin a talk with them and ask them why they love them in the first place. Also ask them if they see themselves doing something such as flying an plane. The very fact that parents are actually interested in their child's education, regardless of what it is, is a huge motivator for students and makes them feel more confident about what they're studying, knowing that their parents support them no matter what they choose. Now if you're a student, likewise you can use the same method. If there's something you know you're passionate about and know you can be excellent at, then go do it. Don't just study something because it pays good ,because in the end you'll be making good money, but you'll be dreading to go to work everyday. Find a career you'll cherish forever!

TimothyHuber

The advice I would give to the parents is to give the student some slack and allow them to make their own decision. They are to the point that they will make there own paths. They will still need you and will, in due time, come ot you for advice. Parents, give your student your full support, it doesn't have to be financial. For the student, this is your time. Set your priorities and pick what you want to do in life, and from there pick the school that matches your priorites the closest. Don't let any one make this choice for you, enless you want to be miserable.

Heather

Blelive in your dreams and then go for them.I set my goals very high because it gives me self indulgence for being on top. Go and see the schools that you have inmind and make sure it is right for you and for forfiling your dreams

Steven

I would tell them to find a happy medium between an excellent education and having fun. You want the best education you can get, but being overloaded with class can easily make you grow tired of college. That's why you need to find a college with a great community and plenty of exciting things to do nearby. While you are at college try new things. Go skydiving for the first time ever, or join the robotics club, even if it is a little nerdy. The best way to enjoy college is to do your homework , study, then go off with your friends to the beach or a park and play frisbee.

Paul

I have had a great experience so far. You need to trust your son or daughter and allow them to make some of their own mistakes. It is a great way to see what they can do. Sometimes they will need you and sometimes you need to let them be on their own. It can be a very fine line between both. It is very important to understand what you are looking for as far as a small school or large school. Once you understand where you will fit in best, the rest will fall into place. Trust your judement and if you can see yourself there for four years or more. College has been an excellent expierence and I was lucky to find the right school for me. I wish you all the best of luck in your search.

Justin

My best advise to parents\students is to visit as many schools as you possible can. There is a school that is right for you but it may take time to find it. If the first school you select isn't the right match, as in my case, return to square one and start searching again.

Christopher

Pick a school that will accelerate your career through its name but also one with good social activities. Our school has minimal females and it really causes depression on campus from lack of social contact. Find a perfect balance between social and work needs.

Chima

Find a college that is top ranked in the field that you would like to go into because they will be more inclined to cater to your needs of finding a job after college and/or networking with the proer people to help you find jobs afterward. Having a healthy social life is also important for making the most of your college experience whether it be frats or sororities or just being social among friends. Choosing the right group of people to associate with also is important to keep focused on the tasks at hand and finish on time with good grades.

Brandon

There is a college or university out there for everyone; one that meets the student's needs entirely, as well as places them on the right path for future success. The hardest part about finding the "right" school is looking. First finding out what exactly you as a student want to accomplish in life after high school and then researching schools to see just what major or academic program will get you there as well as satisfy the numerous other needs that a student desires in a university. Once the right school is found, the college experience comes naturally.

Gordon

Find a college that is right for your career goals. Along the same lines, ensure you have a career goal in mind before finding and selecting a college. It will make the process smoother and ensure you are getting the correct education required.

Leo

I will advise that, when you search a College or University you need to find the one who is giving what you want to learn and what you want to study. Learning in a center that is focused to prepare you the best way available is the best guarantee that you will fell proud about your selection, and for sure, your college experience. I should say that boeing in a college closer to your home/town or contry is better because in case of any situation, you can get parent help easier. Remember that when you make your desition, you need to hear from others who attend that college/ university to know what they fell about being there, also it is a good option to visit the campus and talk to alumni o alumna about what was their experience when they were there, also to compare a college with another, or a university with another is what make you decide where you want to be.

Misty

Visit several places and submit more than one application.

Jeff

You have to be real with your self. Do not worry about all the rankings and prestige associated with universities and colleges. Find the best educational institution that fits your financial needs and your future goals. Selecting the right school is very difficult but you have to narrow down those institutions to the ones that best fit you. It is all about you. Be selfish, you are the one who is going to take classes and do all the work. Find the right college based on you and your needs. These four years will be a learning experience but the key is to make it a positive one. Getting involved that is the best way to make furthering your education really wonderful. By being involved you can make friends and become more comfortable with the campus. Make the right decisions on what you can handle and just be yourself. By putting in the effort you will make the most of your college experience and it will be really great.

Jonathan

Assess your attitudes and capabilities before choosing a school. Choose a school that can provide a breadth of experience approaching the uncomfortable. This is how we mature. Colleges and universities work very hard to design an experience that will transform the high school student from an enthusiastic participant in our society into a leader who will use their knowledge and training to influence the world around them. Do what you love, but be aware that what you love may change. When you apply to schools, ensure that you have a number of options should you want to transfer or change your major. Buying a thousand dollar music credit hour with nothing to show for it as an aviation student is no fun. Always remember that you are the master of your education. If you feel that you need a change, the institution you choose should be willing and able to help you. After all, you're the one cutting the checks; that means you're the boss. Think of this choice as hiring a faculty, staff, and campus full of students to change your life.

Tolga

Prospective students should not follow their friends' school decisions, should not worry about getting too much loan money when preparing for a dream job.

Ilene

Make sure the size of the school and what is offered there is taken into account. I came from a high school class of only 130 so having small classes was important to me. I love knowing all of the students in my classes and not having to sit in a lecture hall! I also reccomend getting involved with clubs and organizations on campus. They are what really makes the college experience worthwhile!

Seung

Definately enjoy your life but do not forget about school, education, because that is the reason why you go to school

Nathanial

Career oriented is nice, but you miss out on the college experience. But I will do my dream job!

Mike

Potential students need to research the degree progams that interest themthe most. Once they have a list of a few majors, they need to pick the one that they know they will enjoy. Picking a degree that the student will enjoy makes college much more enjoyable and less stressful. Parents should talk to their kids about their experiences in college, if they attended one, and what they can expect while at school. Another way to help the student choose a school is to visit at least the prospective student's top choice school. This will help the student get a feel for the campus and how things run on campus.

Ryan

Pick a school that is right for you. If you want a big school go to a big school because when you are stuck at a small one it is just tourcher. If you love sports make sure the school has good ones. Sitting home on saturdays rooting on other schools because your school doesn't have one is terrible. You will know the school is right for you when you visit it. Always apply to a reach/dream school because you never know even if they don't have the major you want because you are more than likely to change your major anyway. Don't get stuck somewhere for your major rather than the school its self.

Kathleen

I would advise students to think carefully about what they want to do after college and make sure that they are willing to work hard for what they really truly want. I would also say try to talk to students on campus who don't work for the school so you can really find out what the school is like. Even if the school is not everything you thought it would be, try to make friends with people in your classes so they can help you and can hang out with you to take your mind of school. Also, do not be afraid to ask teachers for help, even if they do not seem helpful keep going back until you get the help you need and deserve!

Julianna

College is a place to learn about yourself. If it is possible go to a school away from home. College is all about being involved and trying new things. When it comes to deciding where to go to college, pick a school that will alow you to grow as much as possible.

Johnathan

RESEARCH RESEARCH

Rachel

I think that the best way to get a feel for a college is to talk to a variety of students who go there. After taking a tour, walk around the campus and talk to people hanging out. Talking to just the students who show up to tours and presentations doesn't give a good picture of the overall student population or college experience. Once you start at the school, it is a good idea to get involved on campus. Student jobs and joining clubs really helps to get involved because you are more exposed to the campus structure. A lot of the jobs on campus help new students learn responsibility and organization skills. They also generate references for jobs and internships. Campus employers also encourage the students to study and do well in classes.

Carlos

I would love to tell parents and students not to stress over finding "the right fit." The student will generally be happy wherever they end up, and if not, transfering is becoming more and more common. Take it all in, and make the best of any situation.

Kevin

College is a challenging experience academically, physically, mentally, and socially for everyone. Unfortunatly, its impossible to predict what will happen throughout your college career (such as changing your major, switching schools, joining ROTC, etc). The best route to take when choosing a college is to create a list of what you are looking for in a school and try to find a school that best fits what you want. This is difficult; it is very hard to tell what a school is really like just from a "college visit". The most important things to take into account when choosing a college are the type of school (very political, career-oriented, community college), its size and location, whether the degrees are specific and mapped out for all four (or five) years or if general education classes are mainly taken the first couple years , its demographics, the cost of tuition, types of housing and cost, and the area surrounding the campus. If you set yourself up for success, it will come easily. Two main keys to success during your first year are to stay focused academically and to get involved on campus. You control your college experience; make the most of it.