Emporia State University Top Questions

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

Jonavin

Dont stress so much on what to expect. Everyone here makes the transition so easy and smooth. Also make sure you have fun classes along with your harder classes. Just relax and enjoy your last few months of high school you will miss it alittle.

Erin

I would tell myself to attend college instead of waiting. Even if I didn't know what I wanted to achieve in school I would quickly grasp that knowledge as soon as I took some classes. College life is fun and I am having very few regrets about attending.

Ashley

I would tell myself that it is wise to start out at a community college after graduation to figure out what to do in life. However make sure that colleges that I want to go to to finish a bachelor's will accept the credits when transfering. I've lost so much time because I was never told to look that up in advance. When I transferred to Emporia State University, a lot of my credits did not transfer. Leaving me to start over practically when I had already 100+ credits to my college career. Been the most frustrating part of my college career.

Nicole

I have heard countless times that the friends you make in college will be your friends for life. However, the advice I would give myself is "do not be afraid of being alone." When you first arrive, you probably won't know anyone. That is okay. For some people, the last time they were in a new school was kindergarten. Try to make friends, but understand you may not like the first people you meet. It takes time to create real bonds. In the meantime, it may feel like you are on your own. Use that time to discover who you are. For once in your life, do not worry about what others think and figure out the person you want to be. Then be that person. True friends will come in time. Your college years are not about making friends, partying, or even a degree: this is when you discover yourself.

Amy

I would tell myself to do a whole lot better because I would have schoolarships right now to help me pay for my books.

Abbey

I would tell my high school self to not worry about all those lost friendships, because none of them matter once you leave high school. You meet so many different people, and they are on the same track as you, so they are better friends. Also, I would tell myself to save my money better because you need more money in college than planned; so stop buying shoes and buckle down and save. Also, I would tell myself to stop texting that silly boy and do your Trig and APUSH homework! If I had done more studying my junior year, I would have gotten more scholarships.

Ashley

Take classes more seriously and try to figure out what you want to be ahead of time so that way you can take the right classes in high school and will better help you be on track in college and towards your goal career. Also, take concurrent classes and do not skip a math class your senior year because you will not want to be taking intermediate classes in college that do not count for credit. Do it right the first time and save time. Lastly, the concurrent classes will help to not take as many classes in college, save you money, and get through college easier. Don't forget to apply for scholarships! Lots and lots! They are extremely helpful!

Sierra

I would tell my past self that college is nothing like high school. There is more thrown at you all at once and you are expected to have it figured out relatively quickly. I would also emphasize how important studying regularly is, because it was very difficult to learn to study as I'd never had to do it before.

Adrian

The advice I would give myself would mostly center around study habits. In high school the material came easy to me so I never developed good study habits. Now after being in college it took me some time to develop those good study habits that lets one be successful. Knowing how to study, research, and take notes is essiential to being successful in this school. I think a lot of people, myself included, think that college will just be an extension of high school. This assumption is incorrect so that is why the advice I would give myself would be centered around studying skills and methods.

Madison

Make sure you get yourself out there. Don't be afraid to go to professors for help. They want you to succeed just as much as you do. Pay attention to their office hours and go in for help when you need it. Also make sure you stay on campus. You meet more people that way and you can stay involved in all the opportunities that the college provides. Lastly make sure you take advantage of all the different activities and opportunities that the college provides. It will help you feel at home and part of a bigger community.

Alina

I would tell my senior self to not stress out about moving to a town where I dont know anybody. Be confident with yourself and your skills. Take criticism as a learning experience and give your all with each assignment.

Elizabeth

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would make sure I understood how important grades really are. Having a good GPA going into college is important because it helps you get into the best classes and have great opportunities. Also, applying for scholarships is very important. You do not realize how important money is until you are in college. Another piece of advice I would give myself would be to try to make friends right away. Otherwise, it is hard and awkward to make friends when everyone is already split off into their groups of friends. Also, I would tell myself to be ready for anything because everything is going to be different than you are used to. Making friends is different, finding jobs is different, even the way teachers prepare tests and teach is different.

savannah

I would tell my self to not take everything to seriously. I would tell my self to not procrastinate and study hard. i would tell myself to join the campus clubs. i would tell myself to play softball like i used to. i would socialize and make friends. i would join study groups. i would study more like i should. i would definetly move to my apartment instead of the dorms. it is alittle cheaper to live in an apartment off campus.

Shuresa

I would tell myself to pay more attention to my studies, and less on worrying about other people. In the end, getting on with your life is going to be based on getting your education and deciding who you want to become, not what other people think.

Melinda

Get involved and learn to be independent. Once you get to college you need to know how to manage your time well and doing this while still in high school is much easier to learn. In high school you have the support of your family who buy your groceries, cook meals, help with laundry and pay your bills. In college you have to do all this on your own and add school and work to your list. This can be a huge shock for many freshman who have not had the experience of managing life on their own.

Kady

I would tell myself to slow down and enjoy every moment you have left as a senior. I remember people telling me this when I was still a senior in high school but I never really understood until I left town and became a college student. I would also tell myself to take more college credit classes in high school because it really gave me a head start on what I wanted to accomplish in college. Making the transition from high school to college life is difficult, but very rewarding and exciting at the same time. I would like to tell seniors now to relax and soak up the experience of high school because you will never get it back again. However, I would also tell them to get ready for college because it is one exciting journey!

Brittanie

You will grow and develop more in college than you ever have. Your friends will change and it will be difficult to maintain a good balance between high school friends and college friends. College is all about experiencing new things with new people. Don't be afraid to approach new people and try new things, these experiences often lead to meeting some of your best friends and having an awesome time. School should always remain a priority but don't lose yourself in it.

Megan

What is your thoughts about how it's going to be in college? You are probably wrong. You need to make sure you have took classes during high school to better distinguish your vocabulary and mathematics skills. You should take courses that would count as college credit courses. But also have fun in high school as well. Don't put too much on your load.

Kelsi

I would tell myself that you should balance each semester by taking some classes that you need to take for your major and classes that you would just enjoy taking like aerobics and bowling. I would also tell myself that no matter what time of the morning your first class is, make yourself get out of bed and go to class! Spend time almost everyday studying for your harder classes, and make sure that you are always prepared for class. Get out and meet new people and try to get yourself involved a lot of different activities.

Hannah

I would tell myself that I need to be open to organizations. I need to make time (outside of work and school) to be involved on campus. I would also tell myself that I need to try and loosen up and make friends. Start study groups early and become friends with the students in the study groups so that you have someone to hang out with outside of class. I would also tell myself to stop procrastinating so much. If things are started early then there is more time available for involvement in organizations, opportunities to make friends, and opportunities to go to plays, concerts, and sporting events. I would tell myself to be excited and ready for all of the new technological advances that are in the classrooms. I would also keep encouraging myself to fill out scholarships and grants even if I do not receive many toward the end of my school year. I would also prepare myself to get involved with the professors in the education and math departments because they have been the most helpful these three years that I have been a student at Emporia State University.

Katelyn

I feel like by attending Emporia State University I have gotten to know myself better as a person, I have been able to figure out what I want in life, and have made great friends and memories that will last a lifetime. All of these aspects have made me very content with my decision to attend college. Emporia State has been a great school for me. It is not too overwhelming and the people are very down to earth. The teachers seem to have the students' interests at heart and are willing to do whatever it takes to help students become successful. I have been able to meet many good people, both students and professionals. The community is very supportive of the school because the school is one of the main attractions in the town. Being away from home and attending college has helped me grow as a person and made me more aware of who I am, what I stand for, and what I want out of life. All and all attending Emporia State University has benefited my life in more ways than one and I am very happy to be apart of the great experience here.

Rachel

Throughout my college experience I have had many challenges, but I believe through each of these challenges I have been able to grow as a person and as a student in tremendous ways. I came into college not really knowing what to expect or how to handle all the new responsibility and now as a junior I have found my niche. Emporia State gave me the opportunity to continue school even in the most life changing of moments. I was able to find helpful professors and peers to assist in this whole experience. I am very thankful for my experience here. I can't wait to finish and further my education with a masters program through ESU.

Brian

The complete answer to this question may not be able to be described in words, much less within the maximum of 200 words. Ofcourse, there's the technical knowledge from classes and programs, such as vocabulary, processes, and professional trends. As expected, I've also improved my written, spoken, and electronic communication skills. But the greatest of lessons have come from the classes that aren't listed on my transcript. For example, there's Balancing Life 214, during which I learned how to balance school, personal hobbies and free time, relationships, and fatherhood. I also enjoyed College Finance 101, which covered a broad understanding of the real price of personal habbits and thinking about one's personal financial future beyond one week. My favorite course, however, was How People Work 433. It's a challenging course that covered an amazing variety of life-long lessons, such as how to successfully deal with people of different backgrounds and ages without ticking them off, how to keep personal drama from professional situations, how to successfully prioritize and/or accept life, how to deal with failure, and how to strengthen one's self understanding. The real value of ESU is immeasurable.

Demetria

I have gotten ALOT out of the college experience, I have learned how to take a negative and make it into a positve. I was taking a math class and I ended up getting a "D" in the class at first I was hurt, but later on I realized I should just try again. I registered and sat in the class for another semester and I walked out of that class with an "A". Instead of sobbing I got up turned that negative energy and made it into a positve. During the class I remained teachable, I didnt walk in with the attitude of " I did this already and I should not be here", I sat in my seat and said " I can learn something" . College has been valuable because of the lesson I learned in that math class. College teaches me life lessons I can apply to my everyday life. For Example, at my job when I remain "teachable" it my makes me humble and manager loves to work with me.

Stephanie

I came to college thinking it would be a more difficult version of high school. While there is some truth in that, I never imagined I would gain the insight that I have. I now know how to take amazing notes, both helpful for class and my future job in business. I have also learned that procrastination will never get you anywhere. Always finish assignments as you get them. Another important piece of knowledge I've gained by going to college is that your alarm clock is your friend. Professors or employers are not pleased with tardiness or absences. Both will lead to removal from their "space". Yet another piece of information that I have attained from my professors is don't be afraid to express your concerns. By doing so both parties can work towards a solution. Lastly, I have learned that I am not always in the right nor should I act like it. Others may have better solutions to problems than the solution I came up with. Working in a team, as a team is beneficial. All of this information that I have realized in college will help me become a productive member of the business community.

Colby

My college experience has been invaluable. The instruction and dedication of my peers along with the leadership provided by my teachers has helped me to achieve some of my goals and dreams. I feel that I am being prepared to be a leader who lives life with character and integrity as well learning skills that are challenging and equipping me for my future employment.

Miranda

I believe that throughout my college experience the most valuable tool I have acquired is the ability to grow. I have had numerous opportunities to travel, participate in student groups, make many friends (inlcuding exchange students), work with professors in several departments beyond my area of study, and evaluate and set my own personal goals. All of these experiences have been very important to me and have helped shaped my future because they have taught me that my education does not end when I cross the stage for my diploma. I am becoming a life-long learner setting educational goals (not always strictly academic) that may only be realized if I keep pushing myself long after I have moved on from the classroom. My life is no longer restricted to the "go to school, graduate, get a job" formula. I have been challenged to question what I know and what is being told to me and apply what I learn; for that reason, I see no dead end in sight. I have grown substantially during my college career, and because of what I learned through this experience I will continue to grow in the future.

Lauren

I have been able to get training specific for the occupation that I want to go into. Although the Massage Therapy school I am attending is a bit more expensive then most; I have been intorduced to many new people, a new way of learning, and knowledge that I would not have received otherwise. I have been greatly blessed to attend a school that helps me personally with whatever I need. I have valued from my school by, not only by gaining education, having family look up to me for acheiving my dreams and going to school on my own finances.

Jessica

I have learned how to be much more responsible and if i want something i have to do it myself because in college no one is there to look after you but yourself. College is where people find out who they really are and what they want to become, bad decisions in college will follow you to your future. Some classes are hard but thats life to be succussful you need to be willing to do the work the best you can and not let anyone tell you that you cant do it and that its not possible because anything is possible if you really want it. College is an awesome experience, not only with classes but with making new friends and getting out of your comfort zone. I love going to college because i can be my own person.

Megan

I have attending 3 other colleges but Emporia was my first choice when I first thought about going to college. My college experience has been amazing. I have had a great support system from family and through the school. I know that my education is important and my experience in the elementary education program has been great. I am excited to attend ESU because they are one of the top schools in elementary education and I am so glad to be a part of a school who offers such as amazing program. I am ready to teach and make a difference in students lives like teachers have made it my own life.

Lacey

I have gotten so much out of my college experience so far. I have become more of an independent woman, and now that im in college, I have gotten a reality check on how I should put my money to use in the best ways possible. Emporia State has given me so many fun memories that I will never forget. Its a valuable college to attend because everyone is so friendly there, and you never really feel like a stranger to others.

Stephanie

If I could go back in time and speak to myself as a high school senior I would provide myself with so much information. Making the transition from high school to college is not an easy one. College requires a lot more studying and more discipline. For me my parents were always there through out my education asking me if I have done my homework or if I have any tests coming up. They were not there the first year of college. Asking yourself if you have completed your homework or studied for your test is very important. I would tell myself to focus first on the generalized education classes as they are the building blocks for future classes. I would tell myself to allow enough time for studying, friends and family and not to get to overwhelmed. I would also express the need for asking for help. Most colleges offer assistance to students when asked. People can?t help you if you do not ask. Thank you.

Ashley

If i could go back to high school , the advice i would give myself would be; to take college course classes. That way i would have taken most of my Gen Ed classes and would be closer to getting my bachelors degree.

Andrew

The college life is not what you think it will be in any way, shape, or form. College takes time, effort, and some sleep! College revolves around money whether you are in search of it, paying it, or just praying somehow to find enough change to buy a taco at Taco Bell when your friends go out for a late night snack. Also do not be worried about your teachers they are just people also and can be very nice and helpful to you in many situations as long as you do your work. When I talk about doing your work that means you have to read and write alot. Reading takes up most of your time at college and also make sure you understand and know what you just read. College has its freedoms and fun but also it comes with a realization that you are on your own and most of the time struggle to find enough money to do anything fun with. Also something that you have to be prepared for is your roomate who you are going to be stuck living with for the next year! Most importantly relax everything will work out!

Caitlin

Knowing what I know now I would tell myself to become more involved in campus activities to make it easier to make friends. I would tell myself to reach out in classes to meet people. I would make sure to warn myself and make sure to eat right and exercise regularly. Most of all I would be sure to warn myself that not everything or everyone that seems good is good. And most of all to make sure I do what makes me happy and keeps me in school because above all that is what matters.

Susan

Don't spend all your money right away, Moron! You need it for other stuff besides useless crap that you want but don't really need! Such as: books, bills, etc... THINK!!!

Amanda

If I could go back to being a high school senior, I would enjoy the free time that I had. I would apply for more scholarships and more financial aid early on. I would also make more of an effort to volunteer more and do more community service. I had a great time as a senior and was very involved in school activities and I wouldn't change that. I would probably change some of my study habbits though so that college would be easier to get used to.

Kristen

Hello Kristen. This is your future self. I must say you are doing quite well in highschool, but is it your best? My answer is no. You are more than capable to giving {4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}100 each and everyday. In college teachers and parents are not their to hold your hand. No one will remind you that tomorrow is a test day, or a project is due this friday. Everthing depends on you. A bit of advice, make sure to take as many college credit course while in highschool if they are offered. This will give you a big head start. Next, apply for scholarships. Money doesnt grow on trees. Also, decide on a major first hand, because getting started straight off is very helpful ( by the way you decide on being an art education major). My last bit of advice, that i hope you cheerish and keep with you forver, is dont forget to just have some faith in yourself. You are destined to do whatever you please. So, goodbye young me and im looking forward to seeing you in the future.

Danielle

I would tell myself to go to a 2-year college first. I don't regret that I went to a 4-year university first I had a lot of fun and it was a great experience. If I went to a 2-year college first I would have been able to save some money and really figured out what I really wanted to do. I think if I would have gotten my associate's I would be done with school now, I have changed my major a little too much but I found my perfect major now. I would also tell myself to study a little bit more and to make a lot of long lasting friendships.

Jocelyn

Though I have only put one semester of college behind me I have realized there is much I should have done differently. The decisions I made opportunities I have let pass me by all are affecting me now. Preparation for college life was not a priority for me; I never thought it would be such a transition. Having to balance a harder work load in school, while trying to meet new people and make friends, this all on top of having my life ran by my volleyball coach. If I could just warn my high school self maybe it would not have all been so hard. I would tell myself to buckle down and take those harder classes in highschool to learn better study habits while i had the time. I would tell myself to listen to the ones giving me advice and not just blow them off because i think they are over exaggerating. This semester was an eye opener i should have done things diferently, if I only knew then what i know now.

Caitlin

Two years ago, I was eighteen years old. I was attending a school of fifteen hundred students, and preparing for graduation. I was so excited to be leaving high school were most of my decisions were being made for me by teachers, councilors, or my parents. Despite this excitement, many questions weighed down on me everyday: "Which college do I want to go to?" "What should I major in?" "Where should I work?" etc. The anxiety I felt towards college and future plans sometimes discouraged me, and I felt like I couldn't answer the age-old question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" However, after a year and a half of experiences in college, I have discovered that I want to "grow up" to be a motivation to others. So, if I could go back to my eighteen year old self, I would say, "Always keep your head up. Don't let the msytery of life discourage you. Work Hard. Embrace everyone. Always be ready to learn. Above all else, be an inspiration to others, so that they can also reap the benefits of hard work."

Rita

Focus. That is the one thing that is key to success in college. Sure, friends are awesome and Facebook is a great time-waster, but the real reason you are in school is to learn. The most important thing to do is study and work hard in your classes. Stay on topic and do homework first. If at all possible, read ahead and definitely keep notes! Having at least one friend in each class is helpful, especially if you have to miss a class. Try not to miss class! The easiest way to remain on track in every course is to attend each class session. Talk to your professors; their job is to help you learn, but you have to approach them. Keep track of when assignments are due, and try to finish them all as soon as possible. You have plenty of time, if only you plan ahead and understand what you are doing. Trust me, you have to do these things to succeed. If you're successful in school, you'll be a happier person and will be able to spend time with friends and family whenever you need to or want to. Good luck!

Kelly

I would tell myself to get into a more set schedule and to pick a school that is better equipt for my major

Hayley

As a high school senior I was nervous about the college transistion, deep-down. This, though, was not to say I was not nieve. College is not simply a means to an end. Succeeding at a university takes a lot of work. Which I "knew" from what everyone was telling me. But, what I did not realize is that even an honor roll student can hit a few roadbumps here and there. Life hits when you transition to college. Managing school is easy; it's managing how life interacts with school that is the trick. The biggest lesson I have learned in the past year and a half is not trusting that I know what the future will bring. Flexibility is my newest, and possibly most valuable, asset nowadays. I set lofty goals for myself (graduating with two degrees in four years). Even with the best of intentions and twenty-three hours of transfer credit from the local community college earned during high school, I have had to push my graduation date back a year. Life is not a controllable entity. Life is managable. Learn to manage life and the rest will be the best ride of your life.

Parady

Go with your gut instinct, even when you feel like having doubts. There will always be good and bad decisions made in your life, but think of it as a way to help you grow into a better person and prepare you for life. College is a chance to explore yourself. Try to do things you haven't done before, make friends, meet people, and socialize. People did not lie when they told you college is the most exciting thing that will ever happen in your life. No matter where you go, no matter what you do, remember that college is going to be the foundation for your entire adult life.

Lisa

If I could magically go back to my Senior year in high school I would tell myself to take dual-credit courses and not to worry about failing them. And that if I waited until college to take classes such as College Algerbra and Composition that they would actually be harder and I would understand the teachers (math) less. This is really my one and only academic high school regret. Other than that one mistake I beleive that I have made the best choices possible in reguards to my future. As for the personal side of my Senior year I would like to convience myself to be more outgoing and willing to ask personal information. And to act on that information so that after high school the friends that I had made did not just float away because of something that had been assumed.

Caila

My first big word of advice for prospective college students is: DO NOT SKIP. College for the next for years is your job, and you need to treat it as such. You wouldn't be able to skip work without letting the boss know. For the parents of these students, be as involved as you can without invading in your child's college experience. It is their time so let them live it. Don't call every single day, but maybe every other day. Don't hassle them about coming home every weekend; they need to be on campus to meet people and get involved. Make sure to find the college that fits all your requirements (big, small, hands-on, etc.) so that when you start school it's not what your parents wanted, but what YOU wanted.

Travis

There is so much advice i would like to give, but there's a limited amount of space, so I will keep it short. College is an important time in an individual's life. It is a time for learning, making decisions, and making lifelong friends. One important decision is that of which college someone wishes to attend. The only way to find the "right" college is to attend one you are seriously interested in. You wont know if it is the right one for you until you experience it for yourself. As for making the most of the college experience, I am going to have to use the cliche statement of "get involved." It is as simple as that. It does not have to be with sports, or the fraternity/sorority that parties the most. Simply going to social events, whether it be a fall play or a picnic on the lawn, really helps makes the college experince all it can be. Whatever decisions future students make, I hope the path they have chosen leads them to nothing but success and happiness.

Kelly

First and foremost visit as many colleges as possible. Be sure to visit the colleges that you have a strong desire to attend. Ask questions, especially to any students that may be around. If a student is giving you a tour of campus ask them questsions, they are the ones that know the campus the best and more than likely they will give you a good idea to what to expect. After finding the perfect college, be open to new ideas and activities. The only way to truly experience college is to be willing to do something. Getting involved may be an option or making friends is another. Be willing to put effort into the school work and take advantage of your education. Use the services that colleges offer such as the career services department. There are so many resources available and they are there for the students to use to their full advantage. Last but not least have fun, you are starting a brand new stage of your life and you might as well doing everything possible to enjoy it. A least I know I did!

Tara

Have the students check out several colleges so that they find the one that fits them best. Students make sure to set up meetings with a few of the professors or college students from certain on campus groups. Keep an open mind when visiting and list the pros and cons of each college.