Florida International University Top Questions

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

Kathleen

I reccomend the student and parent to research the subject of study and the school's background. I suggest they apply to the school based on the background check done to the school and to make sure the student is sure they want to attend.

Ricardo

College is one of the most important decisions a student has to face. Which college and why? Fist of all, the student must at least have a clue of the major that he is going to choose, and start from that base point; also, whether or not the student wants to move out of the house. The next step is visit the colleges that you have already select. Ask questions, visit dorms, talk to students and teachers, and most important, ask yourself if you see himself as a student of the university.

Heather

Make sure to visit the campus more than once. Visit many schools to see how each one differs from the others. Talk to students from the school and ask what their likes and dislikes about the school are. See what kind of activities are on campus and if you see yourself taking part in them because it is important to be involved on campus. Also see what learning resources the campus has and also find out the average class .

Favad

The name of the school is not everything, sometimes the school that are close by are convinent and in the end turn out to be better than you had expected. Check out the campus and walk around for a day, just look at the different people that go to school there, look at the facilities. From this you will realize that you want to attend that school and that it is the right one for you.

Edward

In order to find the right college you need to find out what you want to get out of the school. For example if you are interested in sports then find a college that has a strong athletic program. If you are interested in Academics then find a school which is well known for its academics. For the student if you want to get a full college experenice I recommend that you get involved on campus. Remember how much you put in, is how much you will get out of it.

Precious

I would advise that future students research and visit the schools they wish to attend

Rashida

I would say to students is to look at the school in person--visit the school. Do you see yourself in there, can you see yourself using the library, walking to class each day. Does it fit you and your personality. What about the accreditation? Does it have your major, don't just pick a school because it looks good or it has a noticeable name (that is a plus, but that is not all there is to a great career). Is it accredited in your area of study. Think about all these things before making a decision about college. To the parents, believe in how you raised your child. Trust that they make the right decisions, because when they go off to college, it is out of your hands.

sergio

to take their time and do alot of research with a number of colleges.

Min-Mei

I think it is important for student to like the environment. I love hot climate and the diversity of people in south Florida, hence, I love the school I go to. Students need to do research on the school they are going and make sure it is what they wanted, because many students end up transfering to other school in their second year of school, due to the fact that it is not affordable or they didn't like the school. Other tip on choosing the right college is to make sure they have the program student is interested in. In order to make the most out of college experience, students must participate some school activities, such as joint clubs, try out for sports, or just make friends that will last a life time.

Melissa

They need to find a place where they feel most comfortable. They need to visit all possible school options and see what campus made the biggest impact on them.

Andrew

Do not procrastinate!

Christina

Visit the campus for a whole day or even a week. Ask students about their experience so far, on campus & off-campus, and if they would choose it as their first choice again. View surrounding areas to find out about the neighborhood: safety, cleanliness, aesthetic appeal, weather, social destinations, entertainment, conveniences, and so on. Plan out the budget for attending the college and determine the cost for attending until the degree is completed.

Diana

Research the school about the leading ethnicities, food and campus

Tamella

The advice I would give is to look for schools that you would find interesting and whose acedemic interests coicide with your own.

Maria

I would advice students to visit their campus see if they like it, maybe attend a class one day to see if they feel at home. Make sure it's accredited and join a club or group if they don't know anyone so they can feel comfortable for the rest of the year. Also, that they offer the program desired and any plans the school has on budget cutting or program cancelling in the next few years.

Leonor

Don't go by college reputation. I was accepted into UM which is considerably more prestigious than FIU but could not attend due to financial reasons. I feel so at home in FIU that I would never regret my desicion. Go on campus, speak to students, speak to faculty, sit in on classes. It sounds involved but choosing a college should be! You are spending the next four years of your life at this place, you want to pick what is best for YOU emotionally. The academics, the opportunities at success and everything else will follow once you find that place that completes you, totally accepts you; once you find your second home.

Patrick

I believe that parents and students should participate in the college application process together, especially if that student has parents that have been to college and know what it is like to go through the stresses and joys of being a college student. By asking parents to join a student in the college selection process, a student gains invaluable experience and knowledge about the value of college and getting an education. The student, specifically, should have a good idea about his or her goals before they go to college; personally, not having a clear-cut goal cost me time and money that could have gone into pursuing psychology, which is a major that I have a lot of enthusiasm for. By having a good idea about your likes, dislikes, and aspirations, it makes the college experience much more enjoyable, with much of the stresses of finding classes and fulfilling requirements off of your shoulders.

Christin

Research and visit the university because there are things to discover that aren't shown in the brochure.

Henry

I would recommend every student visits every school before they make a decision. You should spend a few days testing the waters at each school. Investigate on campus organizations as well as interview current students to get a feel for the environment. It is beneficial if you are going to stay on campus to take tours of on campus housing. It is also importnat to visit at least three different schools. While in school, set time out of each day for yourself. It is very easy to become too involved and stress yourself out. On that subject, GET INVOLVED? In 20 years you will wish you had joined an organization so that you would have gotten a true college experience. And finally meet a lot of people and always attend office hours.

MARYA

I believe that in order to find the right college one must have certain things clear. First, the student must look for a college that is specialized in the career that the student is seeking. This is important because this means that counseling, facilities, and all sort of resources will be available for the student to focus on his career. Also, the student needs to know if they want to be far or close to home. It is also important to look into the school's statistics to find answers to questions such as, how many students are accepted and how many actually graduate? If the student has any special/needs or interest to research if the school provides special care for such. Don't forget, visit the campus and speak with current enrolled students for feedback.

Hansel

Ok yall! College is what you make of it, remember its college not highschool so everything is really up to you, which classes to take, what career to pick, even what books to buy, or not buy. But remember this, all of your goals are to lead to one place... crossing that stage with diploma in hand. So what should you look out for. Make sure you learn as much about the college that you can learn, that means registration office, financial aid, advising, academic affairs, registrar, and cashiers, also, know your schools calender, what is due when, when drop/add period finishes, things that are really important, and parents, no matter what your kid says do your own research, know what these items are, it will save you thousands of dollars. and lead to your child graduating on time. OH and one more thing, SAVE YOUR MONEY, DONT JOIN GREEK, instead join an honor society, Cheaper dues, and smarter crowd, oh and youll get real connections in honor societies than you ever will in Greek Life. and besides that, thank your parents, they have done more than you think!

Peter

do what is right for you

Ana

I have a younger brother who is a senior in high school. He is extremely intelligent and has a lot of potential. Unfortunately he hasn't used it to the fullest and is now making up for it. He wants to pursue many things but his overall dream is to be a sports journalist. He also has a curious mind for society and cultures. I constantly tell him to apply for scholarships, programs and all the schools in Florida. One of my regrets is not going away and staying at home for the comfort. I want him to live the college experience by working hard at his classes, making new friends, and gaining oppurtunities for his career. I encourage others to do the same. I tell my brother to go away for college if he can get full scholarships and he hopefully will. Moreover, I suggest to make the most of the experience by socializing in class, campus, with the professors, activities, etc.

Ameila

Come see the school for yourself. You will love the school and the atmosphere.

Diana

My main advice to parents and students would be to always look at your collage academics statistics. One of the main reasons why I chose FIU is because it is a top ranked business school, followed by the fact that it was rather close to my home. Once they have narrowed down their school search to the best, and hopefully affordable school, then I would advise them to visit the campus. The way your campus looks and the vibe you get from the student body can make or break your collage experience.

John

N.A

Zachary

The most important thing that anyone can do to find the right college and make the most of a college experience is to visit the college before applying and see what the campus is like as well as the community and the people. The people you meet and the environment you live in while in college will make the difference in whether or not you have a fulfilling experience in college. For example, if you like music, go to a college with an active music scene. Go to a college that academically supports the things you want to do in the future, but also make sure that the environment you will be living in will be one that you will constantly enjoy yourself in. Make sure the people are people you can connect with and make life-time friendships with. The truth is that many people end up in satisfing careers that have nothing to do with what they majored in. Spend time at different colleges and find the environment you believe best suits you. Your social environment is what will make your college experience worthwhile.

Angelica

In choosing college, the quality of the education provided by the professors to its students must be determined whether if its great or poor quality. To do so, a prospective should be strongly encouraged to sit-down in one of the classes offered by the college they wish to apply for. Parents must be involved with their child's first year in college.

Edward

Finding the right college isn?t really as scary or hard as most people make it. The best college to choose is often the college that has a large diversity of course offerings which will allow one to sample different fields of study and get a feel for what they are most captured and enthused by. Of course, making sure you stay on top of your academic game is a priority! How else could one hope to get financial aid? Stay sharp, get involved as early as high school, and really just put yourself out there and try new things. Staying optimistic about what college will be, and can be the best advice anyone could get. The "college experience" is really what you make of it! College life brings new a sense of freedom and independence and inevitably a large chunk of responsibility. Know how much time you need to study, how long you can let loose and have a good time, and most important remember to leave some down time just for yourself to reflect. Find the right balance for yourself, getting to know your limits is essential.

Elisa

The smartest thing to do is visit the campuses first, get a tour, maybe talk to some students, there is nothing worse than arriving at your new school and feeling really uncomfortable and unhappy because the atmosphere wasn't what you were expecting at all. Visit all the college websites to see what activities are offered on campus, what resources are available. If you can't find specific information you are looking for, call someone and ask. As for making the most of the college experience, take advantage of the activities offerred, don't close yourself off to people, get out there and meet people because you never know when you'll meet someone who can be a strong connection for your child in the future, get to know some professors as they are the key to your recommendation letters, and quite often they turn out to be better mentors than any other staff member working on your campus, they are the ones who are capable of actually caring about your child and their future.

bianca

Never get discouraged if you do not get accepted into your first choice its usually for a reason

David

Find a college that will sustain the needs and desires of the student. The student must find a campus, a population, and a city that will work toward his/her goals and desires.

Joel

Parents, support your kid(s) through this experience. Don't do everything for them, but be there for them and let them know you careand are willing to help. Students, do your research and don't sell yourselves short when picking a college. Don't write off expensive colleges too quickly. There are millions of scholarships out there. Be sure to apply and compete for as many scholarships as possible. Also be sure to apply for your university's scholarships once you choose a school. Regrets can pile up and pile up quickly throughout these years. Don't get lazy preparing. Once you start attending, get involved. For one, it's a lot more fun to get involved. Second, getting involved with certain groups can be rewarding and look great on your resume. Finally, these four years go fast, don't miss out on unique experiences that can be participated in during these years.

BARBARA

It is a very nice experience, that one will never forget . Choose wisely and take advantage of the great experience coming ahead of you !

Kristin

Searching for the right school for you or your son or daughter can be an overwhelming time. The paper work is everywhere and the massive amount of flyers. I for one didn't know where to start. I recommend using www.collegeboard.com to see matches of schools that fit your needs for your learning experience. After, you should definately take some trips to visit your prospective school choices; this made all the difference for me. Take a tour of the campuses and talk to advisors, in the end this will make your selection easier. Ask yourself where you felt you fit in and could see yourself studying and making life-long friends. After you've selected a college, making the most of college definately starts with two little words: time management; proper time management that is. Definately balance your social life and school work. Too much work can make you feel overwhelmed and deppressed, but too much fun can lead you into a bad situation with your gpa and perhaps loss of scholarships. Always remember to put your best effort into everything and always do it with a smile! Suddenly everything will seem more like fun than work. =]

Melanie

I would tell parents and students applting to college to pick a college that challanges you and will forse you to grow.

Jessica

Find a college that offers programs/ degrees that you are passionate about and that can fuel those passions. No matter how much money you make, you are not going to be happy in a career you dislike. You will flourish and benefit from living and working in an environment that you feel comfortable in and your family will love seeing you happy. If your passion is art, do you really think devoting the next 40 years of your life to accounting would be the wisest decision? Find a college that will enhance your life, not bring you down for the majority of your adult life.

Ewan

Finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is to first visit the school. Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the faculty and staff. Sit in on some classrooms to get the feeling of how the professors communicate with the students. Talk to Resident Assistants about acitvities in the dorms. Tour the dorm rooms. Make sure the dormitory is a place you feel comfortable to call home for the next four years. Communicate with current students about their financial help, over all social and academic college experience, dining condition, how comfortable do they feel communicationg with the professors, faculty and staff, ask if they would honestly recommend future students to that university. Students do not want to attend a quiet laid back introverted university if they are outgoing. Parents make sure to tour the college with your child as parents are often right about certain circumstances. Parents should also make sure the college environment is a positive one, one which engrosses your child's attention both academically and socially. Students and parents always make sure the college fits your financial situation. The worst feeling is being stuck in a foreign place feeling broke and lonely.

Altanese

The right way and the best way to finding the right college is by asking God first and allowing Him to be the center of their decision-making!

Alvaro

That they should apply in time and study the different possibilities where the student could go.

Kathy

I think the most sound advice I can offer anyone really, is to go to oreintation with your children. There you will learn so many things: what the school looks like; it's atmosphere; the diversity of: culture, religion, and people; anything you really want to know. Of course, researching the school's overall rating of it;s academic standards and the job availability for graduates is as must. You cannot expect to go to a university that will not guarantee a job after your education has ceased. Florida International University is an evermore increasing school, both in it's academic performance and it's social enviorment. I assure anyone that the amount networking done here is enough to last an entire lifetime. All in all, attending orientation is necessary to get a taste of what the unversity is really like. You can read all you want on a piece of paper, on a brochure, but experiencing the atmosphere is something words can't really describe.

Gabriela

Go on a college visiting tour. It helps to choose the right environment for your personality. Also look at the environment around school, big cities provide a lot of activities outside of the university campus.

Steven

depends on what they like. go to a college town if you want to be school spirited, if not, go to a commuter school. like FIU!

Emory

A good college experience is not just a "Label" degree, make sure your school is going to leave you with a great education, but also make sure your school is going to offer you a lot of fun. School Spirit, Activities and On-Campus life are very important in having a feeling of belonging and pride for your school, after all you only go to college once, make sure it is all you want it to be. I was not able to go away to a different college because of my finances, however I wish I would have gone somewhere else, because FIU doesn't not have the campus-life I wanted, and I have never felt the sense of pride or belonging for my school. But I?m still trying to make the best out of it! PS: Through this application I realized I should be more involved with on campus clubs and activities, maybe we built our own college experience?Keep in touch I?ll let you know who it turns out.

Tim

Personally if you want the best college experience,hould live on campus, however it seems that most people who live on campus get drawn into too many other things rather then the actual learning process. Those who live at home not only save money, but can get involved as much as those who live on campus, without the negative influences. Also in selecting a college, it really doesn't matter how good the football team is, or how well known they are, unless you are attending for those reasons. In the end the degree is the same and that will be all that matters in getting started in your career. Finally, be open to new ideas and meeting new people.