Emory University Top Questions

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

Paulee'

The Law of Attraction states 'your expectations determine your reality.' Your college experience is what you make it. Some spend their time buried in books, while others devote their time to social activities. The key is an equal balance. Grades are important, but so is sanity. Devoting ALL of your time to studies will leave you book smart, but not happy or socially adept. The key to making the most of your college experience is to find a perfect balance. Finding the right college can be difficult, however it?s not impossible. To pick the college best for you involves a great deal of research. Start with colleges that offer the major(s) you are considering. Next, see what extracurriculars they offer, and finally, housing and financial aid. Of course you want a college you can afford; however it?s not about what you know, but who you know. Sometimes the school on your degree can help get your foot in the door faster than your credentials. Therefore, pick a college that is going to offer the path you want to take, but also one that will help to make it a little easier to take that path.

Samantha

I would tell them not to go to a school based on name, reputation and status. Find a school that has a good location as well as the type of person you would want to be friends with. Location is important because no matter what a positive, great environment will add to any experience. You will make whatever you make of college. If you go to a school thats not as known as Harvard you can still learn a lot. It is more about your experience and what you learn than the name of the school.

Lee-Lye

It is great to look into programs of the school and the quality of its enriching academic environment. Make sure the professors at the school are great teachers and ask questions about the college life to the students attending in that school. However the most important step in making the college experience a great life experience is to take chances with each day not being afraid of the impending grades or different people, but to have confidence in all things. Also grades are not everything so always keep in mind to take a breather for yourself and spend time with friends. Also have a greater dream to serve others and let that lead you to choose your classes and your major. Always keep your morals and keep your priorities in check constantly. Also do not let yourself be closed in or become isolated since that is very easy to do but reach out to others in confidence and always keep a good attitude about life.

Ryan

Invest a lot of time in researching college literature to narrow down your choices. Don't choose schools based primarily on reputation. I think most high-achieving college applicants underestimate the importance of finding a sense of place in college: I know people who have gone to my school and higher-ranked schools who do poorly despite their acuity because they aren't motivated in their environment. Find schools that seem stimulating and focused in your field of intended study, visit their campuses (but not for a tour -- investigate the campus yourself to get a realistic sense of what it's like), and decide based both on the basis of reputation as well as how the school feels.

Christine

I would let the students know that they have to consider all the different elements of a school before making the choice. Academics are gravely important because that is the reason you are seeking higher education, but your overall feelings and fit into the university count as well. You will be spending the four most important years of your life at the particular place and it will help determine what kind of human being you will be for the rest of your life. College is the time when you begin to take complete responsibility for your life. I would tell parents that they should help their children making decisions about college, but they must let their child make the final choice. We understand that parents only want what is best for their child, but students must be intelligent and mature enough to decide for themselves.

Carlos

Be differentt in your approach and open minded. I decided in 6th grade that I was going to attend Morehouse College and would have only appied there had someone not made me promise to visit other schools. I am at Emory because Emory fits me best. You have to find the school that's right for you. once you do get involved so that the school becomes your own. Join clubs or represent the school in some aspect. College is what you make of it, so enjoy yourself while you can in doing it.

Kara

When going on college tours, take the time to recognize the small differences between colleges. After a while, they can all blend together into an impressive collegiate mass of clubs, dorms, meal plans, and classes. However, very small traits of a school can make it perfect for an individual student. Ask your tour guide difficult questions (a challenge would probably make their day more exciting), and critically consider their answers. They are trying to sell you their school, so be aware that they will put a positive spin on anything they say. While thinking about colleges, it is sometimes difficult to know what you want or what would be that "perfect fit." Think about what you liked and did not like about your high school. How important are sports to you? School spirit? A strong reputation? People will ask you for a long time where you went to college, and how much you enjoyed it. Take the time to be confident that for years to come, you will be able to proudly wear your school sweatshirt and say, "Isn't it obvious?" and, "It was the best four years of my life." Remember, college is really all about you.

Bramwel

The college process can be extremely tiring, but do not give up. Take time to do thorough research and understand that not all schools are a perfect fit. Just because one school may hold a certain ranking does no mean that it is the best school for you. Eventhough it may seem like alot of information, in the end it will definaltey be worth it. Also, do not be descouraged if you do not get into the college of your choice, because anyone can succeed if you put the right mindset behind all your tasks. But when you do finally arrive to college, get ready for the real world. Eventhough you may have lots of free time, use it toward your advantage. College is a different level from highschool, but at the same time it can be the most enjoyable experience.

Catherine

Make sire to visit all colleges before you decide. You can feel the atmosphere of a school in terms of how comfortable you will be if you do this. It also allows you to see the size of the school and the transportation issues. Also talk to either current students or current grads that are not involved in the tour-giving process to get a better idea.

Adam

Any top university will provide a comparable education. The key is to find the school where you could see yourself. But wherever you end up, you get out the experience what you put into it.

esther

do what makes u happy. it will work out really

Nina

Do your research and make your preparations, but do not stress too much over it. There is only so much to consider before you just have to make your choice and jump right in. College is important, but do not give it too much weight in your mind, for there is much more yet in store for you in life. Go to college, meet people, study hard but make time for your friends, stay close to the people you value (near and far), fall into activites that you enjoy and which are good for others and the world, and be sure to find yourself and when you do, stay true to yourself. It sounds like a lot but it's not too hard.

Deborah

When one is a senior in high school, I would first look into onself in order to see what kind of campus environment one desires, what kind of academic environment one wants (competitive or not as competitive), the georgraphical location, and types of available social activities. After making a list of possible schools, I would visit the campuses and sit in one of the classes. If you are interested in a chemistry major, I would ask the school if you can sit in one of their chemistry lectures. After probing into the schools, I would apply to the top 3-5 schools. After arriving at the college of your choice, I would get involved with service clubs and any other extra curricular activities in order to make friends and make social connections. Also, when you are in a class, actively seek out the professors no matter how responsive he or she may be. Always actively seek what you need and want because your actions will contribute not only to your academic and social life, your actions probably will benefit the university in improving itself.

Mark

My first two years of school were at Berry College. I was very focused on soccer and dedicated myself to playing the game in school. I enjoyed Berry, and I made many close friends. I ended up transferring to Emory because Berry's location was a little remote for me. I wanted to be apart of a college town. Berry and Emory have both shaped me, but in different ways. The key to finding the right school is being able to find the place where you can meet people, enjoy school, and make close friends. These are all essential to a college life, because they are the things that get you through the rough times and help keep you going. Not all times in college are fun and exciting. Yes, college is a great thing. Yes, college is a learning experience. By visiting a campus, you are able to actually see the students interact with eachother. By simply observing you can tell if the students enjoy their time at their school and can see if their happy. Typically, if you join a campus with a lot of happy students who like eachother, you'll be happy, too. Balance is key.

Aeisha

I would suggest that parents allow their students to come up with what environment best suits them instead of trying to force a certain college on their student. When the student is the most comfortable, the grades will reflect that. Parents should also give their students freedom with just a bit of structure because it allows them to begin to think as an adult.

Gabriela

To find the perfect college, the prospective student should be able to spend a good amount of time in the school. Maybe pick up the school's newspaper, eat a meal at one of the cafeterias, go on a tour. But the most important I believe is to talk to a random current student and ask about what they like or dislike, to get an opinion different from what the admissions office tries to convey. Making the most of the college experience involves balacing out the academics and social life, Knowing when to focus on the future and when to take a break from all the stress involved with school.

Tiffany

The best advice is to search yourself first. What are you looking for academically? Private schools are more academically strenuous but often offer more resources/finances while public schools generally offer more free time for fun. What kind of people do you want to be around? Each campus has a unique feel: diverse, sports oriented, academically focused, party animals etc. Choosing a student body will determine if you go to football games, the theatre, the library or into the city on a Saturday afternoon. What do you want out of your location: sunny weather, family nearby, a coastline, a big city, the capital, the mountains? Do you want to know everyone on campus or is it ?the more the merrier?? Find out what kinds of activities the school offers. TALK TO CURRENT STUDENTS!!!!!! Do they find students and faculty active or apathetic? Intelligent or underachieving? Friendly or cliquish? WHEN you visit, ask students about the best and worst things about life as a student there. Lastly, take a deep breath. THIS IS EXCITING! Don?t stress out. Enjoy the process : ) When you get there, try EVERYTHING you ever wanted to try before you leave!

Sonia

Finding the right college for you is not about what school is ranked highest or has the best football team, although these are ways to narrow them down, these are not reasons you make your ultimate decision around. To find the place that fits you best, your personal needs should be assessed first. Do you need to be near a city? In which field do you plan to study? Does cold or hot weather suit you? Do you plan on being active in extracirriculars, ndulging in academics, or both? I think these questions can help highlight what you're looking for. I suggest making a priority list and rank these questions about what is most important to you to have in a school. Then, find the school that accomodates these needs. As for making the most of college, I would say meet and learn from people. Whether they are professors, advisors or peers, find ones to challange you: the way you think and act and force you to grow, because thats what college is, a growing experience. Also, study hard so you can use your knowledge towards a career and hey, maybe even kick butt in Jeopardy one day.

Scott

Make sure you visit the school and find a place that you really love, and parents let the kids decided that.

Eric

Parents, as well as students, should not become enamored with college rankings, as they only compare certain aspects of the school. It is important to find a school that is a match with you and your career goals. Do plenty of research about anything that may interest you outside of class: internships on and off campus, volunteer opportunities, potential research opportunities, etc. Finding things to do outside of class is vital towards providing a balance to studying. Look up special academic programs that may help fulfill your goals. Educate yourself about the schools as much as you can, as this will allow you to make a more informed decision when it is time to send in your deposit. In addition, visit the school while it is in session. Schedule an official tour! Speak to as many students as you can about academics and student life so you have adequate information to imagine yourself as a student at the school. This helps you to envision not only what to expect from the college you could be living on, but also the type of individuals that you will be working alongside and collaborating with for the next few years of your life.

Jasimine

I advise parents and students to start preparing for college early by attending college fairs, taking college tours, and talking to people that are attending college or have attended college. Don't let the price of college deture you from attending because there are so many different ways to finance college and the earlier you check into your finance opitions the better chances you have at getting good finances for college.

Matthew

Finding the right college is not an exact science. Just like there is no formula for you to get into the school of your dreams there is no formula for choosing the school of your dreams. But there is something you can do--visit the college. I don't mean visit the school and go on an admissions tour with your parents. I mean visit the school alone in the middle of the week with classes in session. If possible try to stay with a college freshman. You want to achieve the purest experience possible and the only way to do that is by not attending artificial information sessions and not forming anyone's opinion except your own. Blend in and be a student for a day and you will be treated accordingly. The best way to find out about a college is, in fact, to attend that college. Unfortunately, most cannot afford to go around paying tution at various schools until one feels just right. We can only hope that a day or two can be projected onto a year. In the end, you will make the right choice and if you don't, one word: Transfer!

Hillary

When I found Emory, I felt what I can only describe as a "buzz." When I got onto campus I felt energetic and curious. The environment was stimulating and I knew from research that the academic programs were strong enough to provide me with a strong background in any subject I chose. Once you get to the school where you belong, do your best to let go of your preconceived notions about what you are supposed to do or supposed to study in college. The majority of us changed our major at least once, but that's the point. The best thing you can do for yourself is follow whatever passions you may discover along the way and find something you can see yourself being happy with for the rest of your life. Don't choose your major based on average salary; that changes. Choose your major because it's something you don't dread staying up until 2 or 3 am to study and master. It took me two years to discover these things, but I don't regret that I spent 2 years not knowing because I now own this knowledge.

Shalini

I advise anyone choosing a college, to listen to your inner desires. Do not let anyone influence your idea of what kind of school you want. For example, if you want to be in big school with hundreds of people in each class, then follow your heart because I gaurantee you, if that's what you want, you will never be happy in a small school regardless of how academically beneficial it is. Do not let anyone talk you out of what you feel is right for you.

krithi

find financial aid first and then accept

Alex

Absolutely visit the college and try to talk to people outside of the traditional tours, which are designed to impress you, and remember they're only part of the story. Also, really think about what kinds of activities you enjoy doing in your hometown and see what the accessibility is from where you're applying. For example, look into the public transportation and proximity of parks so you can find ways to decrease your spending and get off main campus once in a while. I stongly encourage parents to let students explore on their own, because they're more likely to get honest answers from people closer to their age. Parents should be supportive about letting their children go into college undecided and excited, instead of feeling stuck in a major and possibly intimidated. Definetly explore the greater communities outside of college which can be rewarding personally and professionally in the long run. Attend extra lectures in subjects that interest you, perhaps outisde of your major, instead of starting your partying early because by the end of undergrad you won't remember the afternoons you blew off nearly as well as the stimulating new ideas which colleges can provide.

Alexandra

The only advice I can give other than the typical "excellent academics, available professors" suggestions is to find a campus where you know you will be able to relax. Search for a campus with wonderfully green surroundings or a quiet library or whatever environment will help you to relax. Despite the fact that college can be a lot of work, there is a good amount of down time, and sometimes we all need a little time to escape the books.

Daniyal

Nothing

Natalie

When choosing a school it is important for people to make sure they enjoy it. In oreder to perform your best, you must be happy. At the school you attend, make sure that most of your needs are met. Ask yourself, am I happy? Will attending this school help me be successful? Lastly, picture yourself at any school you are considering. Then ask yourself can I see myself here everyday for the next four years. To students trust the judgement of your parents. To parents listen to ALL of the needs and wants your student has. If you do most of what I have said, your college selection should be easy and enjoyable! I wish everyone the best of luck!

Daphne

No regrets, and have fun. School makes everything so serious and it doesn't always have to be that way.

Nithya

I think you always have to keep an open mind when entering college. It's a big step and a huge adjustment. Make sure to use the reseources you have, such as friends and family, because that's your best bet to really easing yourself into the change. Any decision you make, really stick to it and see how you can integrate yourself into the school rather than forcing the school to mesh with you.

Madalyn

Definately go and visit the school. Stay with someone in their dorm or apartment for and extended time (at least 2-3 days) to really get a feel of campus life. Open House weekends are great to get information about the school, but to really be able to picture yourself there, go during a regular weekday/weekend and talk to as many people as you can. You will be able to feel if you can see yourself there or not for the next four years of your life.

Nicole

Go where you want and put your heart into it.

Paige

I've learned from advice and my own experiences, that wherever you end up going to college will just feel right. You'll find a niche, maybe not in the first semester, but you will find one. And you'll find friends, because every freshman is in the same boat at the beginning of the year; everyone needs to make new friends, and usually jumps at the chance to have someone to sit with in the cafeteria. To get the most from the college experience I would encourage students to try everything: new classes that just sound interesting, different sports, different clubs, volunteering, rushing and possibly joining a fraternity or sorority. All these things can only be done in college. The most important thing is to just get out there and be available to meet new people on the campus. Eventually, you'll click with someone or something, and everything will fall into place. It's an incredibly scary first step to leave the comfort and safety of your home and family and friends, but you'll grow so much that first year and your independence and self-sufficiency will be so much greater. I know mine is.

KARA

To find the right college, I believe that the student should visit the campus as soon as possible in order to get a feel for the size and atmosphere of the school. When I was applying for colleges, I thought that I wanted a small liberal arts school, so I applied to mostly schools that fit that description. However, when I ended up visiting the campuses of these colleges, I realized that they were too small for me. So, once my acceptances came in, I really did not have much to choose from for colleges and was left wondering if I could have made a better choice. One of my other deep regrets about college is that I didn't get involved in more extracurricular activities earlier on. There were so many activities that I wanted to do, like research or volunteering, but I often gave excuses not to participate. Now, as a junior, I wish that I had taken advantage of more of these opportunities earlier on. I advise all students to seize the day by taking advantage of the academic, extracurricular and social activities that college has to provide as soon as possible.

Lyndsey

Going to college is a life changing experience; there are many factors that should be taken into consideration. Make sure you have enough money to afford the college of your choice because it is difficult to truly enjoy college if there is a mountain of debt waiting for you after graduation. Student loans are extremely helpful but try not to completely depend on them. Location is also a key factor. If you move out-of-state, prepare to be separated from your support system. The transition to college can be difficult when you are surrounded by unfamiliar things. Another vital aspect to finding the right college is to visit it. It can look amazing on paper, but it might not feel like the right place if you visit. Talk to students and faculty to get an idea of what life would be like there. You might be surprised to find that it would have been a horrible choice. Last and most importantly, could you see yourself being happy there? College needs to be a great experience because you only go once so make the most of it and make sure you can do that with wherever you decide to go.

Ruth

The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a college is that any college can be the "right" college. I do not fit the stereotype of an Emory student, but with time, I still found my place. I have been taught by world-class professors and have made friendships that will last a lifetime. I did not join a sorority like most of the girls I knew, but instead found my own clubs and interests such as Outdoor Emory and Emory EMS. College is about personal growth, both socially and educationally. It is most students first time away from home, and can be lonely, so developing friendships is more important than it was in high school. College is the time to discover what interests you most and to learn as much about it as possible. College offers many new areas of study to explore that many high schoolers had not though of before. At any college there will be good professors and students to be friends with. It is all about finding your place within the school. Every college has something to offer, so whatever school is chosen will be the "right" college, given enough time.

Saba

Keep an open mind. Let yourself try things you never thought you'd let yourself do. Don't get in a relationship right off the bat, and just relax and don't fall behind in classes.

Santosh

If fiscally possible, try visiting it and staying there for a night. Read up as much as you can about not only the education you will recieve but the type of life you will be living. It is important to have fun and live in a comfortable setting because without this, it can become very difficult to suceed. Learn about what type of people attend the schools you are looking at. Find out if they are career oriented, school oriented etc. Make sure that you are going to a school that will help you find out what you want to do in life and if you already know what you want to pursue, make sure you attend a school that is good at teaching what you want to learn. Make sure that you are attending a school that you will be proud of ten years from now, not only because of the quality of education but becuase of the strides they are making in the global community. Finally, make sure that you are attending a school that can help you in finding a job of proffesional school once you leave your undergrad school.

Brian

Finding the right college can be a daunting task, and with all the options out there it?s really difficult to know where to start. It is important to find a college that fits your personality. College is like dating. You can always see yourself working well with someone, but its not until you meet "the one" that you realize you have found the person for you. Searching for college mirrors the same process. There are a lot of universities that would be a good fit. However, its not until you discover the immediate comfort and energy of a university that you know you've found the place for you. Start off by looking at the basics. Is it academically challenging? Does the college offer what you are interested in? What is the social atmosphere? Do you get the sense that the college is working to improve and advance in its fields of specialty? Once you have narrowed down the list go and visit. There's no better way to get a feel for a school than by sitting in on classes and soaking up the extra-curricular atmosphere. Don't be unsure of your choices...be excited to dive into your college experience, wherever that may be.

Will

Money is no object. Go to the best school you can. Avoid state schools.

Jeff

Make sure that when you visit potential colleges you talk with the students already enrolled.