Flagler College-St Augustine Top Questions

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

Sara

This is a question that I go over in my head on almost a daily basis. There are so many things I would change! I have learned so much in the eight years since my graduation. I did not know what I wanted to pursure career-wise and I knew very little about who I was as a person and an individual. If I could go back I would advise myself to take a year or two off of school to really live life. I would encourage myself to explore my different passions, talk to people, learn from different cultures. By doing this I believe I could have learned more about myself and about the bigger picture of life. I would tell myself to be confident in who I am and not let anyone mold me into who they think I should be. Most importantly I would remind myself that everything is temporary and not to be in such a rush to reach the next milestone in life. Take everything as it comes. One day at a time. Enjoy each moment.

Stephanie

I would tell myself that although I'm a good student, I need to stay on top of deadlines, scholarship wise. I'd tell myself not worry about the little things and spend plenty of time with friends. I would also tell myself to study more in math and not too worry too much about everything and just live but keeo up with assignments.

Madison

I have thought about this question since the day I graduated. If I had the opportunity to go back and give myself a piece of advice I would tell myself to slow down. Stop rushing around, trying to finish everything as quickly as possible. Stop waiting, sitting around counting the days until I move away to college. The day you move into college will come soon enough, but you'll never get these days back. These days count, and theyre the ones you'll remember most about your entire high school career. Enjoy the days, tell people what they've meant to you all these years, hang out with your friends, talk to your teachers about college, take in every little aspect of high school. Because one day you'll drive off that campus and won't come back, and you may not believe it now, but you'll cry, and wish more than anything else that you could do it all over again.

Sean

The biggest advice I would give myself is to learn how to actually study. High school is easy. You show up at school, go to class, pay attention and you are good. College requires that you actually apply yourself. There is a little bit more involved. Be ready for implementing time management skills, know how to do your own laundry and don't try to be someone who you are not. Be yourself. Apply yourself. Don't be afraid to take chances. Most importantly, don't dig yourself into a hole too deep to get out of in your first semester. And don't be afraid to ask for some guidance from your parents. Don't let your newfound freedom change the course of your destiny. Have fun but take it seriously. And enjoy every single minute of it.

Victor

My main adive: DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. This has been one of the things that has plagued me since i first entered high school. I procrastinated all four years and in every class, and sometimes it landed me in stressful situations. although i got by with an overall 3.8 GPA, I could have made it a whole lot easier on myself by learning to start things early. Now in college, i learned to not procrastinate the hard way. I missed scholarship deadlines, applied for classes late, got marked down on late assigments, tons of things. If i could tell my high school self one thing, it would be to practice non-procrastination. Maybe starting in high school would have made my life a lot easier now.

Alexandra

As a high school senior, I firmly believed my attitude was nothing short of ambitious. In my father’s eyes, this was the ultimate facet of character; determined to take on the world. Hindsight has proven this ambitious attitude can bring success, but only when a degree of humility is swallowed up in the process. If I could give any advice to my high school senior self, it would be to strive for your goals, but keep reality in check. I think successful students jump the gun with college, by trying to apply to the crème de la crème of universities, without much consideration of cost or their major of intent. I made this mistake, and attended a top university with a major I picked on the simple whim, “ it would be cool”. It was a mistake that cost me financially and academically. Luckily, I gathered my whit, swallowed a little humble pie, and started my academic journey over. I did this by applying to a smaller school that was far more affordable, with still a solid reputation. I carefully discussed my interests with an advisor, and chose an appropriate major that I fell in love with: psychology.

Kathryn

If I could give my high school self advice, I would say to fully prepare for a college lifestyle. Even at age 16 I had to become an adult as I went into college. Every day I am faced with life-changing decisions, peer pressure and new ideas. Most of my days consist of classes, homework, work and cheer, which is much different than my high school schedule. I would tell myself to truly enjoy every minute left of highschool, because college is a great opportunity, but it is extremely different. The last thing I would say is to stay true to myself. No matter who tries to persuade you away from your own thoughts, values and things you know to be true, do not sway, because you will find yourself in situations you do not want to be in. This all can be wrapped up in the first point; fully prepare for a college lifestyle. The meaning of this sentence varies depending on your school and situation, but for me, this means to stay true to myself and learn time management skills.

Kaity

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to slack. High school classes may not mean too much now but building up test taking and study skills will do you wonders. I had both anatomy and physiology I and II in high school, and have them again now in college. It's a whole different ball game. I would have loved to care as much about it then as I do now. If I had, I may not need to hit the floor running with things that I know we went over in high school. It just didn't stick. If I would have taken the time in my high school career, I would probably be in much better shape now. But life is a daily struggle, and you learn from your mistakes. Without them, I wouldn't be who or where I am today.

Hannah

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life, I would give myself a lot of advice. I would tell myself that I should enjoy high school more, and be grateful of how lenient my teachers are; professors are strict and they do not mind giving you a failing grade. I would remind myself to work harder, not only to better my grades, but to prepare myself for the immense amount of workload ahead of me in college. I would tell myself to save my money for college fun money and fill out more scholorship applications to help out my parents. Lastly, I would tell myself to have more fun! Also, to make good decisions and be my own person, because going to a college where you do not know anyone, you need to have a solid standing on your values.

nadia

The very first advice I would give to myself it would be to apply very hard in my studies and forget about my romantic life. Because I’m a sensitive and passionate woman, and I know that when I fall in love I completely lose my mind and I can’t concentrate in anything else. I can try to, but I know that it will be very hard and I’ll not give a hundred per cent of my attention in the subjects I’m studying, bringing me to have bad results at the end. I’m not saying that if I already have a boyfriend I should not consider him for the whole time of my college program. If I was in a very good and stable relationship with a man that would actually help me to achieve my goals better, because it would give me self-esteem and a feeling of accomplishment and a “I can do it” thought. But instead, if in my High School senior year I was still on my own, and was starting looking for somebody as a partner, that would cause a big turmoil inside me, which will distract me from my studies.

celeste

Assuming that I was a high school senior in the year of 2009 when i was 18 and care free and not really focused on having a education. I would crack down and apply for every possible scholarship i could because now i am a single mother of two. Unemployed trying to make a living to support both of my children which are both under the age of three still wearing diapers and needing plenty of materialistic things. I wouldn't have just blew off my cousleor like I had plenty of time to get my life straight , because truth is the longer you waite the harder it is to understand the classes and creating a routine all over again of study habbits. So now im enrolled in Everest University online trying to take classes in criminal justice. While still raiseing to kids all alone and living with people .I would advise every senior to take advantage of all the oppurtunitys there are out there while your still young and life isn't throwing you curve balls, because in reality the adult life you dream of as a child isn't all it's crack up to be.

Kelsey

Don't let others influence your decisions. If you feel like it's the right decision and it's a place you love then go for it with your full heart and passion.

Taylor

I would tell myself to do better in highschool for sure, so I would have been better prepared for the course load and the material. I also would let myself know that every experiences you go through helps you out in the long run, for example difficult roommates, hard professors and learning how to be alone. Lastly I would let myself know that the people at flagler are geniune and you can spend less time guarding yourself and learn how to open up to people you met. Everything is not has major or scary as it seems at first, that is the for sure thing I have learned in the past two years and would like my former high school self to know.

Sharon

I would love to look myself in the eyes and very firmly say "I know you think you know everything, but YOU DON'T!" These next few years, you will discover things about yourself that are unimaginable right now. Your experiences, both good and bad, will lead you to be who you are today. Make time for study, but make time for fun as well - these are going to be the best years of your life as of yet. Go out of your comfort zone, meet people who you wouldn't normally befriend, and don't forget that it's okay to ask for help! Your school is located in a great community - neighbors, fellow students, professors, and school counselors are all there for your guidance. Professors encourage interaction, go the extra mile to make yourself stand out. You will need it when you get out of college and pursue a professional career.

Chelsea

I have gotten many things from my college experience. I've become a better driver, I commute an hour to school everyday. I've learned that your parents will support you, but not help as much as they did before. I've learned that everyone is there for the same reason, an education. It's been valuable to attend college because it is my future. Without a degree I can not do what I want to do with my life. Without an education from college, my dreams would ahve to be put on hold, or I would have to settle. Settling isn't something to do with life. Life is for living, and without a valued education that would not be possible for me.

Caroline

I think I learned to be independent and met a lot of wonderful people who helped shape my life. Because the class sizes were so small, many teachers take an interest in their students and go out of their way to help them. I was able to study abroad with my school which was a wonderful opportunity and helped me become even more committed to my field of study. My advisor helped me get all my paper work done for a grant program I participated in after I graduated and is still willing to help me now whenever I need a letter of recommendation or a contact for applications. Overall, I really enjoyed attending Flagler and still make frequent visits to the town and campus.

Greer

The three years I spent at Flagler College were of immense value to me, in that I found a supportive group of friends who helped change my life. The rigorous course work, coupled with the close-knit friend groups, aided my growth as a student by helping me learn to balance social and academic life. Living away from home, as I did, helped me become more responsible and money conscious. Also, the courses available formed the foundation for my future. Attending Flagler College may have put me into incredible debt, but the experience was priceless.

Brooke

Before I started college, I was very nervous. I didn't want to start something new. But once I completed my first day, all those thoughts went away. I actually enjoy college. College gave me the freedon that high school couldn't. College gave me the ability to do things more independently then before. I do believe college made me more mature and gave me the will power to succeed. I knew I wanted to further my career because my parents don't have college degrees, and I noticed how much they are suffering to make it in the real world. In today's society, it isn't easy and I know that with a college degree I could receive a higher salary than with just a high school diploma. Although college is very expensive, I recommend to every student. I never really knew how much potential I actually had until I started college and I believe every student will realize that also.

Sarah

My college experience has been great so far. Though no school is perfect, I have found that Flagler is ideal for me. The buildings, dormitories, and classrooms are all so beautiful; it makes attending a true pleasure. As a college student, I work hard to maintain good grades, learn, and expand my concept of truth and reality. At Flagler, I am able to learn from books as well as from the people who teach there and from those who attend Flagler. By attending Flagler, I have grown as a person and have narrowed my passions and interests to know what path I will choose for my future. As an institution, Flagler nurtures its students with raw and relatively unbiased information to encourage its students to make decisions that pertain to life and education. I deeply respect and love my school and recommend it to anyone I speak to about universities. Being a private institution, I expected Flagler to be much more expensive than it is- Flagler offers such an economic solution for someone like me who desires small and personal instead of huge universities. Flagler has helped me to grow as a person and I am so thankful.

stacey

I have gotten many things out of my college experience. Some of which are new friends, better education, and the teachers are great. Its been very valuable to me becasue it gives me a chance for new things, and to make a better future for myself. I have already learned so many new things. It's a great experience all in all I wouldn't trade it for aything in the world.

Patricia

Honestly, when I first started college i was still in my highschool phase. I didn't care about school, in fact i couldn't stand it. But as i got older i realised how important it is and how lucky i am to have this opportunity. When i started at Flagler College this semester i took up classes for Deaf Education because i learned that that is my calling. I am recieving an excellent education from teachers who really want you to be there and to learn. Being that I am a Deaf Education major I am learning how when you're teaching a Deaf child it is completely different than teaching a hearing child and not only in the sense that they can't hear you. I am so excited to take everything that I've learned from my college and apply it to a wonderful and long-lasting career.

Ashley

I am applying for this scholarship because i despertly need help paying for school.I am going to get my Medical Assistants certificate.Currently my family is stuck in a bad situation my husband just lost his job and we have no income except for his unemployment benefits,We are about to loose our apartment at the end of August and have to go into a family shelter.I decided to go to school to further my career and make a better life for me and my children.I can get loans but i dont want to end up in this situation again because i owe money for school loans.I would really appreciate the help more than anyone could ever imagine.Thank You for taking the time to read this and i look forward to hearing from you.

Steven

This is difficult as I have not started classes yet. I will be a freshman in the fall of 2010, and I cannot wait to start. So far I have attended two different events at Flagler along with orientation, and every time I go to Flagler I am more in awe of the experience I am about to begin. I cannot wait to start the next step in my life, living on my own, meeting new people with the same interests as me, and just being fortunate enough to have the opportunity to attend college.

Amy

I haven't had much of a college experience because it's been more like a harder high school at Flagler. Although Flagler is worse than high school because it's exracurricular activities and clubs are horrible and nothing I would ever want to join. I was told they had a lacrosse club, which they don't and wont allow the club at Flagler even though many people want to play. I have now been accepted to University of North Florida and hope it will be more enjoyable.

Alyssa

If I was given the chance to go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to prepare more for classes because I did not have to try very hard in high school, and college is a lot harder. There's more homework, and the material is all new.

Michelle

Be confident in yourself. As long as you study, take notes and pay attention in class then you will succeed in college. The transition between college and highschool homework takes time getting used to but as long as a person pays attention in class then they can overcome the transition. If you get confused about a homework assignment or concept, don't be afraid to ask your teachers. No question is a stupid question.

Aileen

If I could go back in time and tell my senior self something it would be that this college is very beautiful and you need to not get caught up in all of its beauty and instead focus on your school work. There are a lot of clubs on campus and you will want to join them all and you can but that will require some serious juggling of your schedule, remember why you are there, it is to get an education. You cant just slide by anymore, it is a lot harder than community college and you will need to actually study. The keys to success here are taking notes, re-reading them after colass and sometimes rewriting them, them before class re-read them again so you are prepared for class discussion and also take notes when reading the text books. After you have accomplished it all remember to saty cheerful and keep a smile on your face, for thats what you will be known for here.

Kierstin

Upon my arrival to College, I was shy and nervous to meet new people. We did a lot of "ice breakers" during the first few weeks to get to know everybody and I noticed it was really hard for me to open up. When it was my turn, I almost always said something basic and boring because I was afraid to be daring and different around people I've never met before. I began to notice the lack of interaction I had with people. During a conversation with my mother, I was reminded that I was not being myself. Eventually, I came out of my shell and I now know everyone in my class and I feel more confident. If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to meet as many people as possible and that being nervous is not a trait people generally look for in a friend. I would tell myself to go out, have fun and be myself. I just started my second semester and I have already met new people by introducing myself to people in class, in the dinning hall and in the student center.

Chelsea

If I were able to talk to myself as senior now, I would highly emphasize the importance of saving money and applying for scholarships. Attending a private college is vastly more expensive than it is to attend a major university such as Florida State University. I am now feeling the pressures of student loans and affording the next three years of my college career. I would have told myself to ask for extra hours at work as well as ask more in depth about scholarships. I may have also included the option of duel enrollment courses in high school as an option. I would have had more credits had I taken more of these classes, however the ones I have taken in high school have provided very helpful background knowledge. While money is an extremely crucial aspect of college, I would also tell myself to expect the experience of a lifetime in college. Between making new friends and becoming a part of a new community, the experiences of a college are ones that will stay with you forever.

Jamicah

i would push myself to try harder an not let my freinds influence me to do wrong an stay out of trouble. most of all i would also try to help my friends get on the write track because i woulnd'nt wan't to see them go down a road of selfdestruction because i was on that same road

Jacey

If I, as a current junior in college, could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would inform myself about lessons I have not only learned about college, but about life itself. First and foremost, I would tell myself to always stay true to who you are. Of course, there should always be room for change and acceptance of others? viewpoints, as broadening your horizons is such a significant part of college, but as a person, be yourself. Do not be afraid to share your opinions and beliefs with anyone, for you never know who you will have the opportunity to converse with, based on those beliefs. Be open-minded and not quick to judge. Everyone has their own story, and unless you are apart of their memoir, you do not truly know them. I would tell myself to put much effort into everything you do. Focus on schoolwork, as school is your job for at least the next four years. Still, however, enjoy yourself and enjoy your friends. The true friends you make will hopefully be there throughout the most enjoyable, as well as the most trying times in your life.

Daphne

If I were to go back in time to meet myself and explain a few things that I have learned from my time at college I would start by warning myself not to panic and just imagine that I am a mere hallucination. After the confusion high school me will experience - despite her college counterpart's warnings - subsides, I will have just one suggestion that I wish I had known in high school: By spring semester of freshman year, money will be tight and your hours at work (that's right, you found a job) will be shrinking as fewer customers frequent the shop. While you are still in high school, apply for every available scholarship. It is not as time-consuming as you might think and it will most certainly be worth it when you try to move off campus and take out fewer loans for sophomore year. Other than that, I don't want to share any more hints about college life because I don't want to change a single second of my adventures here. They may not always be fun but without the bad times, how can I expect to enjoy the good ones?

Je'leah

Be sure of yourself. Embrace the now. It's difficult, especially with making friends. But, become comfortable with who you are. Learn to appreciate yourself for all of your faults and your quirks. Because, if you don't begin to appreciate yourself for who you are and become comfortable enough to be alone by yourself, you will have a much harder time. It won't be easy because you're shy and reserved, but remember that school isn't just about the books and the tests and knowledge gained in class, it's about the knowledge gained outside the classroom as well. And there is so much to learn, so much about other people and about yourself. But, if you continue down this path of study, study, study, then that's all you'll have. Yes, you will make a few acquaintances, but none like what you have now. They will become mroe drawn to you if you can become comfortable with who you truly are. Don't ever change to convience them, but don't be afraid to get to know yourself. Oh, and hug your family. They may annoy you, but you will miss them and their encouragement.

Lisa

If I could go back in time to my senior year of high school, I would give myself some advice on how to spend my freshman year of college to make the transition easier. I chose to not live on campus my freshman year, which I feel was a mistake. I would remind myself that I would not know any of my peers yet, and would have a better chance of making some friends if I spent more time on campus. When considering my options about school, my main concerns were money and acedemics. I felt that it was more important to lower the cost of my schooling than to live on campus. I also was not worried about the social aspect of school, being that my reason for going college was for an education. I soon learned though, that acedemics are only part of the essential college experience.

Robert

The only words of advice I would give my younger self would be these; "No matter what hardships you face in high school, with people or academics, see everything through, and do your very best. College is a completely different world, and it will only make your life better. Don't let life get you down now because it's only about to begin. Stay strong, and when the going gets tough, put your shoulder down and tackle yor challenges head-on."

Kathleen

Hi Kathi. I wanted to take a few minutes of your time to tell you a little about college and why it is so important for you to consider all of your options. I, unfortunately, took a few years off between my high school graduation and college. I went from one job in business administration to another finally landing a job selling first mortgages, until that industry went belly-up, then computer equipment to mid sized businesses. My latest job was based on performance. If I sold enough and made the company plenty of money I could stay. If I didn't I faced possible discharge. I have now decided to follow my childhood dream of being a nurse. A complete career change, yes, but a rewarding one, absolutely. I thought it would be hard to get into college but it wasn't. I just made an appointment, filled out the application, applied for government grants and loans, and started. I am in an 8 month diploma course to become a medical assistant which will provide me with a rich rewarding career helping others. I wish I had done this immediately after high school. Good luck.

Jenell

With that chance to go back in time and tell myself what to prepare for in college, I would definitely tell myself to realize that in life, you are ruled by your own morals, opinions, and reasons. In high school, it's all about friend, teacher, and parental acceptance. One always wants to prove something or seek approval from others. In college, the only acceptance that matters is your own. One has to love herself and to strive for the stars not for anyone else but herself; her own self-made support system. I would tell myself, "Love who you are and don't be what you're not. Stay true to yourself, be your own best friend, and know that if anything goes wrong there's always a way to make it better."

Ceara

Living on your own is a teenager's greatest dream. Getting away from your parents seems like a great thing at the time, but have you really looked at the whole picture. How are you going to pay for books, food, and the occasional night out with friends? Yeah sure, Mom and Dad send you money, but it's never enough. The ony way to support living on your own is to get a job. Balancing school, homework, time with friends, and work is a difficult task. Sure college is supposed to be fun: going to parties and clubs on Thursday night, but college is also the time to strap down and grow up. It's the time when you learn and discover things you never knew about. You think your really mature in high school, just wait until college rolls around. College is all about leaving the nest and learning to fly. This is when all your dreams come true. So work hard, never give up, and soar like an eagle!

Olivia

Present me would tell past me to definitely not slack off. Do the work assigned promptly and study hard. College is a great learning experience, and while it maybe hard you can get through it. The first few days are going to be tough, but keep your chin up and you will make it. Don't mess around on the computer or watch a lot of television. Unlike high school where you can slack off college is harder. Feel free to ask profesors questions and go to their offices if you need extra help. There are also less tests and pratically no quizzes or homework. So STUDY, STUDY, STUDY! College is not a joke in society today you need at least a bachelor's degree to just get a basic job. In the end you will meet great people and have some amazing new experiences!

Shelby

The advice that I would give myself is to try my best. Although it seems like graduation is far away it is closer than it seems, and before you know it, graduation has come and gone. So I would tell myself to work as hard as possible and do the best that I can, also to savor every moment that I have left with my friends.

Jaclyn

Yes, you're going to have to work a lot because you didn't have anything saved for college, but you'll make just as many friends through work as through school, so don't sweat it. Don't feel bad putting off assignments because you do well under pressure. Don't be in such a hurry to move off campus because it's amazing how expensive it is to live on your own. You should try and talk to more people, just walking around, in the halls, whatever. You'll rarely be in a place like this again: where you can begin whole conversations based solely on the fact that you are both standing there.

Samantha

I'd tell myself that it's not as scary as it seems; living away from home has all sorts of benefits, and the one that matters most is finding out who you are. Highschool-me didn't even want to go to college after how annoying highschool was, but I'd tell her that it gets better. College lets you choose your own way, and there's almost always an alternative if you don't like a subject or a teacher. I'd tell her that even when things are rough-- when she's crazy with fatigue or overwork, when she's too poor to buy ramen, when she's confused and doubting-- there's always someone to turn to. I'd tell her that the best friends she'll ever find will be there, and that they'll form the sort of family and society she's always wanted, one full of artistic inspiration and constructive criticism and emotional support. I'd tell her that she's not weird; she just hasn't found people like her yet, but she will, and it will be amazing. I'll tell her she won't regret going, not even once.

Kaitlyn

I would tell myself that the only way to get involved and fully adjust to a new college and new atmospere is to go out and join clubs or sports. Even leave the dorm room door open so when people walk by you can just say hello. I would also recommend participating in the hall events. These are great ways to mkae friends on your hall. I would tell myself to not be afraid to try something new and get involved. To not be afraid to be who you are. You are a great person with great ideas, now go show them and change the world. You can do it. It all starts with the ambition and drive you have, no go and reach for your dreams. Show this world wht you are made of. Give back without fear. We can do this. We can be true to ourself and make a difference, you just have to open that dorm room door and go out into the world.

Andrew

Hey buddy, how's it going? I'm good now. Be careful of Flagler College's Dining Hall food! Take care in what you eat and how much! Also, run more, get involved more early, and make friends with as many people as you can! Be more outgoing and get more involved at Good News Church in the area. Don't let any relationship keep you tied down and keep you as a hermit in the dorms. Go out, have fun, and always stay true to who you are! Take care, my friend, and never lose hope in the Son! Your pal, A.J. Wagoner

Teresa

Don't listen to peer pressure because you don't have to do what your new friends are doing to fit in. Take you time when it comes to partying, you have 4 years to have fun.

Sean

Visit the university you would want to attend before accepting the college. Second find what intrests you the most of the college. The environment is the most essential element in college. If you like to party go to a big college, if you like small classes go to a private college, etc.

Ashley

Make sure you look at every school, even the ones you are not too interested in, they might surprise you. Try and visit every campus during the school year to get a feel of the campus, you want to make sure you will be comfortable there. Try to do as much research as you can about the school, degrees, student life, anything the interests you. Once you get to the school, try and be involved on campus... join clubs, got to the events, meet people. Enjoy it, but don't get too much into the partying where you are left hungover for class all the time. Take your work and yourself seriously. This is your future, don't throw it away.

Jennifer

Trust your gut, make sure that you do a campus visit because pictures just arent enough and there is definitely a certain feel you can get by just visiting the campus :)

Laurie

Students and parents should plan plenty of time to take college visiting trips. The best way to narrow down college choices is to visit the campus itself. Then, when you are visiting the campus, don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, visit a class or two in your area of interest, and meet with a professor. Most schools also offer the opportunity to stay in the dorms with a student. In addition, weight factors such as cost, distance from home, majors offered, and student life activities offered. I would suggest making a list of the things important to you in finding a school. Then, take that list on your visits and use it to form the questions to ask your tour guide, students, and professors. After visiting and getting a hands-on experience with the school, the decision of which school is the best fit for you should be much easier.

Brandy

Visit the campus more then once talk to other students and visit more then 4 schools