Farmingdale State College Top Questions

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

Danielle

If I were given the opportunity to go back in time as a high school senior, I would have made a lot of changes to the ways in which I challenged myself. I have spent my entire life striving for success and achieving high grades. Although this ambition took me very far, I think that at the age of 17-18 I should have allowed myself to do things that I enjoyed instead of being so uptight about making my parents happy. This forced me to miss out on everything that most teenagers get to do. Having a social life is just as important as getting an education. I lost a lot of friends because of this. Now that I have recieved my bachelor's degree, found a job, and own a home, I realize that I have left all of my high school friends behind. My best advice is to myself would have been to enjoy my youth while still pushing myself to succeed. Otherwise, life will pass by all too soon.

Melissa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself I would say "hey kid, youur young and might not think much of your future, but I know you will do well. i would tell myself its not all fun and games, but with the right attitude and ambition you will will succeed. College is hard work and no matter how much time and effort you put in you will fail sometimes. But always remeber to get back up and keep trying. I would say go to all your classes and make friends and meet new people because they can help you succeed later on. be a part of your schools acticities for students, leave an impression. Most of all do what you think will help you become what you want to be, because these next four years will be the best."

elena

Knowing what I know now, high school would have been different. I would of taken some AP courses, I would have continued my senior year in BOCES for my LPN license and it would have made it easier to become an RN. But knowing myself I probobly wouldn't have listened because I was a very stubborn child. As a senior I would have taken advantage of all that my high school had offered and would have put myself ahead of the game.

Joannie

I would have a few important conversations covering a few topics. One topic I would discuss with myself is the importance of knowing my strengths, and to think about what careers would align with my strengths. Since I was not entirely sure of all of the strengths that I had, I would strongly encourage taking an assessment. I would encourage becoming knowledgeable of various careers, and taking advantage of resources available at the local library to learn more about them; since I did not know these resources were available at the time. I would encourage myself to find people in careers that I was interested in, and communicate to find out more about their lives and satisfaction in their positions. I would also strongly advocate internships, and volunteering in areas that I am strongly interested in and even in areas where my interest exists mildly. Perhaps the most important topic of discussion would be about finding what I would love to do, regardless of the salary I would make or how long it will take to achieve my goal; rather to pursue a career that I would be satisfied doing without pay, to find the ultimate, satisfying career for myself.

Candice

My college experience so far has exposed me to a higher level of academia. It is giving me the tools that I need to be a responsible, headstrong and productive member of our society. From being and on campus resident, I am also networking with people who may be my future colleagues in the work force after I graduate with my degree. College is also giving me the opportunity to be independent and learn how to take care of myself outside of my parents home. I am learning time management skills as well as how to balance a social and academic lifestyle. This college experience is giving me the opportunity to prove what i am capable of to myself as well as my family. I know without a doubt that after I recieve my degree and go into the world on my own, I will be a great mother and wife.

John

I have been attending Farmingdale State College for over a year now, im in my third semester majoring in Mechanical Engineering technology. What I can say about what I have gotten out of my college experience is that I've learned many things I had no idea about. Many of these things will help me earn a job in the future in the fields Im interested in. My experience has been valuable to me because as I already stated, I am learning many new skills and information that will help me earn a job in the future. It's also valuable to me because I am a diabetic and I will continue to recive my health and dental coverage as long as I am a full-time student at a college. This is very imprtant for me as it allows me to to attend school without worrying about huge medical expenses. My overall college experience has been a pleasant one and I hope to continue to expand my knowlege for my future.

Ralph

Just do It! I didn't graduate from my high school and the one thing I regret more than not graduating is missing out on that "younger" college experience. At 30, I look around at all of the "kids" around me in my classes and I wish I had been able to experience college life then. I would tell myself finish high school no matter the cost and go away to school. I would recommend Farmingdale, but school has always come easy to me so I don't think my 18 year old self would have a problem transitioning or accepting college life.

victoria

I was really on the ball as a high school senior- the only advice I would give myself would be to make sure I had some "fun" classes right off the bat to offset the science and math stuff - learn to sail, take a dance class, etc.

TESHIA

Being that I am an adult now I would definitely finish college straight from graduating high school. There is should be no excuse in getting your education it can take years to get your feet back into the classroom. Having a education is so important these days. I wish back than someone would have pushed me in going to a four year college instead of two year college therefore i would be finished and maybe working on my masters.

Birchell

If I went back to high school as a senior, I would have accepted my original scholarship to Iona college instead of going to SUNY New Paltz. I chose to play basketball instead of going to a prominent school for a discounted price. If I went to Iona, I could've walked on the basketball team Iona and still ent after my dream of playing collee basketball. I definitely would have spoke to my sibblings more before I chose classes. I am dating an academic advisor and the conversations we have make me upset that I relied so much on my coaches and academic advisors to pick my classes for me. I went through a lot of things during my time in college that definitely made me stronger. My parents got divorced and then my father got a stroke and almost los his house to foreclosure. I also would have taught myself better spending habits. I was not very responsible with credit cards and budgeting. I am a master at it now. I really wouldn't want to change anything because I learned a lot through my expreiences. I am just excited that I have a chance to finish college.

Patrick

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to do many things differently. I am an adult student so there are many things I would do differently. The first thing I would say is that you really have to get better grades in high school. The higher grades you can get the more opportunities for scholarships and choices for schools become available. Money was the biggest hurdle for me when I got out of high school, not be able to go to college. I would drill into my head that not going to college after graduating high school would not be an option. I look at the last 14 years of my life as a waste. I have went from job to job trying to figure out what I can do as far as a career without a college degree. I would also emphasize to get the best grades you possibly can in college with the hopes of getting additional scholarships and the chance to transfer to a better school after a year or two. If I followed these steps, I know my life would be completely different today.

Chelsea

In high school I was only focused on one thing and that was dance, I was in a cultural arts program, dancing in the city- my life was dance. I would tell myself to really take a deeper look at what you love, all that time there was a second thing I loved to do but wasnt paying attention to it because of the accolades I got as a dancer. I was an EMT volunteer- I loved the excitment of the ride and loved being there to help people. The thing is there isnt as much public glory that comes with that kind of work. I would tell me self to think and feel the inner glory you feel when you help someone, or are there just holding their hand, now I understand how important it is and how fantastic I feel when I do it and how much I really love the choice I made.

Ivars

Just try your best, regardless of what you do your family will be there to help you, and teacher will try there best to help you in class. Just remember where you came from and where you are now. It is all a privillage to be in college take advantage of it because a lot of people dont get the chance.

Caitlin

Don't worry the transition was very smooth, just stay focused on your goals.

Cory

If I could go back into time and change my thought process as a senior there would be many different things I could use as leverage to change my decisions. While I was a senior I thought just like most go away and get out. Unfortunately life happens and things change, for instance siblings find themselves in life or death situations fighting everyday for their life. My brother was diagnosed with a rare blood cancer, these things kept me home and thats one thing I learned that kept me near. It is all about being happy and comfortable, otherwise as a student and a person we could not open up out of our shell and become the adult we become. If I went back to my senior year I would soul search and ask myself what it is I really want and not what others think. Im happy and I love going to class and being on campus, I just would have never hesitated to go to the school I did for immature reasons.

Jason

That no college is to good..and there is plenty of time to figure what and where.

Ashley

Find a school that fits all of your needs; one that will help you abtain the career you want or education you want. Always visit the school of your choice and ask alot of questions before you make your final decision. Once you start your journey, get envolved and make the most of the experience.

Carolyn

I would tell people to make sure they feel comfortable on campus. Also, finding an affordable school is important as well.

Ashely

Be prepared for your future from the very beginning. Consult a career counselor from your freshman year, even if you're not sure what you want to do with your life. Study very hard and learn to love reading, being educated and have intellectual pursuits. Learn independence along the way such as applying for financial aid, how to drive and how to become a mature adult in general. When you try to find the right college, go on the Internet to make sure the college has the right programs and majors for you. Make sure it is in an environment that you would like. Do you like the city, the suburbs or a rural area? What type of climate would you like to live in year round? What do the students do for fun? If possible, talk to current students or very recent alumni about their experiences on campus and consult them for advice. Do not isolate yourself , yet do not be so into your friendships that you lose sight of your priorities. Do not get into a deep, serious relationship with a significant other. Educate yourself, yet have fun at the same time. Have a sound body and mind.

Yazmin

The advice I would give parents and/or students is to take adavantage of the campus visits and tours. The words may sound good when you read them but you always know what school is right for you when you step on campus and can say "This is it." Also, make sure you do your research on the school to see if they have your major so that you don't waste time there or have to go through transfers. And most importantly, do not limit yourself to one college or university. There are tons of colleges and universities to appeal to almost everyone so you will find that one for you. Just reach out and look!

Sergio

I would say to research any college that has the major you're interested with, look for the acceptance rate and requirements in order to get in the school. Also, research the cost of attendance as well. Other than that, when your in college, even if it's dull or exciting, make sure you can make your own fun and make time for your studies.

Cory

Always research your colleges and get your Financial Aid applications done as early as possible. Researching colleges help by showing what they offer as far as activities, sports and academics. You may find a campus with an amazing lifestyle, but it could be only restriced to creative arts. You want to find a happy medium that meets your satisfaction. Find out what kinds of groups or clubs they offer, you'd be surprised on what interesting club may catch your eye. Find out what sports they prefer on campus, for example Farmingdale is big on Lacross and Basketball. Find out what sport you'd prefer to participate in whether its being on the team or cheering in the audience. You also want to see what kind of places surround the campus. Is it a nice town? A beach? Choose your preference. And of course, getting that financial aid sent in early gives you a chance to get more money. If you wait last minute, you'll only wind up with bare minimum or nothing at all. So let's review, research your colleges in depth to find the right experience for you, and apply early for Financial Aid.

samantha

I would advise parents and students to make sure you take your time choosing a school. Don't just look at it academically. Make sure it is a campus you will enjoy being at. Make sure it is a college you can realistically afford. Save money! A penny saved is a penny earned. Talk to people who go to the college, or alumni about their overall experience. Websites that rate schools are very helpful. The amount of students in class plays a big role in your overall progress in that class. Your college education is soley in your hands. Every single choice you make is important. Doing well in class is very important, but enjoying yourself is as well. You will meet so many people and peer pressure is worse in college than it ever was in high school. Leave yourself ample time to complete assignments, study, and sleep. Overloading your schedule will only cause you to do poorly. College is the best time of your life. Enjoy it! It really is a great experience.

Chris

Make sure the college you look at is an acredited college and when the student graduates in his or her profession they are fully equiped to handle the real world.

Ralph

Visit the college. Especially pay a visit to the department chairperson for the student's major and possibly get some sample syllabi to get an idea of the workload and expectations of the professors.

Ian

Find a school that fits your buget so you can weigh your options.

Justin

Ask other people what they seriously think of the school, Check rate my professor before waisting money.

Rachel

Try to focus on what your interests are. It is very difficult to do something that you do not enjoy. If you are somewhat interested in a specific area, it will enable a person to be more sucessful. By having this interest, you will enjoy your classes, and therefore it will be a little easier, no matter how tough the cass may be.

Michael

Make sure your child is comfortable where they are going and to have some sort of idea of what they want to do or else you will be wasting time and money.

Blaine

Remember class size. Things to do on the weekend.

Jason

Talk to people who have attended the college to get an accurate discription of the college.

Wakako

Fiinding the right college?? well its hard to say... but it depends if you want to commute from home near by or live in the dorm far from your house. Talking about college.. well.. its good to look at different college by going there in person, talking to the faculties and going on the website..... Me personally, i don't even know what i want to do yet, so i chose business. because everywhere you go, you need that background. Its ok if your kids donno what they want to do yet. So parents, don't push them, they will figure it out on there own.

Fazia

You should find the school that best fits the student. There are alot of different factors to take into consideration when choosing a school, such as parking space, location, commuting/dorming, type of professors, class sizes, type of program, etc.