Florida State University Top Questions

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

Kylie

Out of my college experience, one of the things I have learned is time management and responsibility. Although the academic lessons are important as well, my classes have prepared me for "the real world". As an online student, you are required to double check on deadlines without being told to do so. This happens in every day work life and I feel I have been prepared for such instances where responsibility opportunities are being tested. Time management is also crucial to any situation whether a job interview or project for work. Taking a full load of online classes has most definitely prepared me for managing time and avoiding procrastination. It has been valuable to attend my school to learn such important life lessons along with advancing my education.

Andrew

The most important thing that I have attained from my college experience has been becoming more comfortable with who I am and not trying to act differently or behave like I feel people want or expect me to. I have found friends that I will remember for as long I live. College has also given me a deep sense of pride for my school and making me feel as if I belong somewhere and I will always be able to come back and see a familiar building or location on campus and say to my children and grandchildren "That's where I realized how I wanted to spend the rest of my life and who I wanted to spend it with". There is also the loyalty is college football and the excitement of filing into the stadium with 83,000 other fans and playing the Warchant to get the fans pumped up and cheer on the Seminoles to game-winning drive. FSU has been the best way for me to obtain a solid foundation in my studies as I prepare for law school and become a successful attorney with it's many career tools and professional programs.

Rhea

I have gotten the experience to work in a research lab. I do a directed individual study under Dr. Licht where poodles are studied in order to try and locate the gene(s) that is responsible for epilepsy. Another aspect of this research is studying the effect of medical drug compliance on patient health. This is done by attempting to study the effects of medication compliance in underserved populations were many patients are illiterate and trying to develop a system that can help improve medication compliance and understanding in underserved populations. Being able to participate in research has exposed me to a valuable facet of education that I don’t believe I would have gotten in a classroom setting. It has also shaped my life by allowing me find a direction in life that is geared towards holistic healthcare improvement for patients living in underserved areas. Beyond academics Florida State has allowed me to create new friendships with people who share similar passions and interest as me. Overall I believe I have grown on many different levels including intellecutally and handling personal and social relationships.

Deborah

I have learned how to be independent and it gave me the confidence to know I can succeed against all odds.

Nicole

The greatest thing I've gotten out of my college experience, besides my education of course, is the knowledge that I can be self-sufficient and independent. While this knowledge could have been gained outside the classroom, I don't believe it would have been as beneficial to me in the long run, both in my personal and professional lives. This knowledge that I will, in fact, be alright in the world outside of my parents' house is gratifying, and that makes the experience of attending college incredibly valuable to me.

Kelly

I've only been at Florida State University for a little over a semester, but I already have learned enough to surpass my previous knowledge. The most important information I have genuinely learned is to never give up. College is about discovery and passion and learning about who you are and who you want to be when everything is said and done. I'm a theatre major, and I'd say I'm planning to enter one of the hardest fields to succeed in. I have received ridicule from family and friends on numerous occassions stating that I won't make it; I won't achieve my dream. At Florida State, I receive the exact opposite, thankfully. My professors are the most encouraging people and believe in each of us. There are so many acting opportunities here, and even if I don't get cast in a show or the role I wanted, that means there is somebody better than me out there at that moment, and all I can do from here is improve. I know that when I leave this university, I will have knowledge, connections, and the best memories I could ask for.

hallie

i will haveb gotten at least ,my bachelors degree and a wonderful foundation to build my life on

Cassie

I have learned how to excel in every aspect of my career. They have hands on internships and many highly educated and industry savvy professors that know how to help you succeed. Not mention you learn on a fun and interactive campus that has something for everyone, from sports to fashion, from studying to partying. This campus is completely well rounded in all ways.

Madison

At first did not want to come to FSU simply because my brother was already here. I made the best of it and now I love it. I joined two clubs that have helped me meet so many people and experience new things such as dance and shadowing. I hangout with friends whenever I am not busy with schoolwork. All in all FSU is a fun and valuable experience. There is never a boring moment, and if you find one, then you are not looking for something to do. From hanging with friends, to campus organizations, to football games there is always an activity to participate in. The level of activities on campus is mind boggling. Political groups, general interest groups, greek life, religious ministries, anything you can think of it, it is here. If you have an interest, there is a group that meets for it.

Kendall

College is more than parties and homework. It is more than moving out of your house and doing what you want, when you want. College is growing up and growing into who you want to be. It is about finding yourself. It is amazing what profound changes I have noticed in myself after a mere semester at the Florida State University. I am growing into the person I want to be, doing things for myself, not because others tell me I have to do them. My college experience has taught me so many life lessons about acquiring knowledge because it will benefit me, not because i "have" to. It has taught me how to live on my own, care for myself, BE myself. I urge everyone to attend college, not just because its necessary to get a better job, but to discover your own potential, to strive to be a bigger and better person, and to become a unique individual which will in turn benefit society as a whole. This sole semester a way from home has deeply challenged me to make good and conscious decisions. The college experience is without a doubt my most influential encounter thus far.

Kelly

Florida State is a school of tradition. Both my parents attended FSU and I am now carrying on traditions that they had. Because of this, my college experience has allowed me to share something greater with my parents and other alumni and to carry on their legacy by "upholding the garnet and gold." Both my parents found their niche in the Greek Life. I'm now in the same sorority as my mom, singing the same songs, and doing the same rituals she did years before me. It's comforting to know my parents walked this very campus, watched the flaming spear hit the ground before every home game, and even lived in the same sorority houses and dorms that I'm in today. It's only my freshmen year and I already feel such a connection with my school. Not only have I found my niche in social life, but, through top noche advisors, I've also been able to find my niche in my major as well. Florida State advisors are always thinking of ways for us to succeed. Thanks to them, I am eager to enter the Early Childhood Education Major offered at FSU.

Shaneetra

What i have gotten out of my college experience is the chance to better my education farther than before. I learned that friends and clubs are where you can make a new family if your away from home. The teachers are there to help you not hurt you. This is vaulable to me because i came from a school where some teachers hated when you asked questions and always had their nose turned up or either mean. FSU makes me feel comfortable and at home. I have met so many new friends and I am excited for what is come in my future!!!! :)

Curtis

For me Florida State University has been valuable to attend because I have gotten to experience things that I don't think is possible at any other University. My classmastes all share a common bond in which we are eager to learn, enthusiatic, diverse, and willing to help each other. The campus it's self is just like a city within itself. There are plenty of opportunites to get involved. The professors here are all professionals in there selected subjects. There are many professors from all walks of life which help give this university much needed diversity.

Victor

Attending college has been one of the most valuable experiences of my life. While in college I've learned that in order to succeed I must be responsible for my actions academically and financially. Being in college has taught me to manage money better, and it has taught me that I need to work hard in order to be successful in school.

Jisell

Being a first generation college student, I did not know what to expect when I first arrived at Florida State University. This college experience has been priceless, from the lifelong friendships i've made, to the skill set and experience through assignments, and internships. I was always told that college was to expensive and that it is not worth it. I, on the other hand, am strongly opposed to that statement. Aside from looking good on a resume', attending college has opened my mind to new ways of thinking. I have learned how to speak in front of an audience without being nervous, how to ask smart questions that lead to progressive answers, and how to help others when they need it. The 'vibe' you get when you're in college is just amazing. You mature mentally, socially, and financially. I am currently a Sophomore at Florida State University and, if I could, I still wouldn't change a thing.

Harrison

The college experience, such as it is, has been immensely valuable. I arrived at FSU in 2010 on a boat different from many other undergraduates - a community college transfer student who was slightly older then the general curve. The differences between the two institutions are immense, and its really in a major University that I find the resources to pursue my end goal of a Doctorate in Archaeology, as well as the environment that allows me to dedicate myself to it. My experience here has been overwhelmingly positive - students and faculty both are outstanding in their disposition, and that comes across as a real inspiration to do better, to try harder. I'm surrounded by brilliant, knowledgeable people from all walks of life, pursuing myriads of different goals, careers, specializations. In that respect - and I suspect this holds true for most institutions of higher learning- its been a wonderful experience just to attend for the new perspectives on life and world that can be garnered in even a short amount of time. Though the focus of why I attend my institution never leaves sight, aspirations that can only be catered for by such great institutions of higher learning as FSU.

Amanda

What I have gotten out of my college experience is that you really need to balance out your time for studying, your social life, and for youself. when it comes to my experience you have to do the work you have to sacrifice your time with your social life sometimes. Its important that you have know how to time manage your studying, readings, and homework. when I study I try to get certain chapters or assignments out the way so when I have class I am prepared for class the next day or the day of class. having social life is important but not as important as doing well in school. Making friends that have the same major is helpful because they have experience as well. making friends can help you understand that your not the only one with this major that you can see they have to work hard as much as you do to graduate and to enter into your field. Having time fr yourself is important because you don't want to be all cooped up and studying all the time. exercising to relieve stress or seeing a movie could help.

Melissa

My education at college has been so much more relevant to my career than any I got in high school. I have learned much more about myself and how to live on my own in college than I ever did in high school, and I think I would really strugle with being independent without a college experience.

Laurie

When i first entered college I wasn't positively sure of what I wanted to do. However, after enrolling in photography classes as well as other art-related courses, I found that student life is very fitting for me. I enjoy learning to the greatest extent, even subjects I might not use in my future career, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to attend school regardless of my family's income. By attending school I've realized the importance of education and the amount of opportunities offered to students, which in the end assured me that I am capable of anything I want to do as long as I am willing to submit the time and effort.

Jill

I have learned so much as a returning student. It has amazed me that the basics are still the same yet how quickly we tend to forget those such as Math, English, and Chemistry. Nursing School has been the hardest thing I've ever done in my life but hope the rewards in the end make it all worth it. Without attending school I could not help the public in such a large way. There is nothing more important to families of the patient or the ill patient themselves as having a great nurse at their side which would not happen without college experience. Nursing is not something you can learn by shadowing someone. You have to learn the details of each illness in order to properly care for patients which entails a good college experience with good professors to help teach you. I am 32 years old and without a college degree I would still be selling cars or working every dead end job just to live. Hopefully, now I will have a future that brings vacations and retirement to my life.

Benjamin

The most important thing that I have gotten out of attending college thus far is a greater sense of myself and what I want to do. Now granted I have yet to complete my first full year of college so anything is subject to change, but so far it has been a great opportunity to discover my true passions. Because there is so much being offered to me and so many opportunities presented, college has allowed me to explore these and find out where I fit best. Some people know exactly what they want to accomplish immediately upon leaving high school. I was not one of those kids. But the more time I spend in college the more excited I am about the future and the more confident I am in the paths I choose to take. The other incredibe thing about the college experience is that while it does force you to start thinking about the future, you never get caught up in it. There are so many things to do and new people to meet that you're never caught looking too far ahead. College allows you to prepare for the future while loving the present.

Jessica

I have had a great experence so far at FSU. I've made friendships that will last a lifetime! My classes have been challenging and interesting. My professors care about their students success. I wouldn't change my decission to attend FSU for anything!

Karly

The college experience made me grow not only as a persson but also academically. It gave me a sense of the real world. Paying bills, buying your own food, going to class when you do not "have to". This freedom that college creates is a great experience and has made me become a better person. Through friends , family, and faculty at the University, I became the young woman who wanted to succeed. I found that college gave me a new view of life. It gave me responsibilities. I learned from my mistakes. I feel that I gained equal parts of education and real life experience through atttending college, that I would not have gained by not attending Florida State. No matter when, or where you attend, attending college is and will be the best time of your life for anyone and everyone who is willing and able to learn, and expand their minds.

Kassandra

My college experience has been short but I have gained freedom and have become an independent young woman. I've learned good time management for getting my work done on time and incorporating relaxation. It has been valuable to see if moving forward in my intended major is the best thing to do.

Hannah

Going to college has made me mature and take responsibility for my own actions. While many of my friends go out several times each week because they aren't involved in on campus activities I would prefer to build my resume than have a story about what happened when they went out at night. I've worked part time since my freshmen year to help pay for college and this semester is my third semester interning in sports marketing. I want a career in sports broadcasting so I hope taking the initiative to make connections and put in the extra work now will pay off when I graduate and start a career.

Danielle

Im currently attending a two-year community college in my home town. I started the fall after graduation. I think it was great decision for me to continue my education. From going to college i have learned so much. It has taught me responsibilty and hard work. I've developed study habbits that will stay with me for the next 4 years of my college education. I believe it was valuable for me to attend because i've learned so much in just my first semester that i've been inspired to keep in school to further my education.

Jennifer

It's only been a semester since I started attending to Florida State University. I've mentioned previously that I've fallen head over heels for the school's colors and beautiful buildings with its histories. I've encountered a variety of people I probably would have doubted myself before getting to know them and I'm becoming more open-minded with my community. There's still a whole lot to learn about Florida State, and I hope to have a memorable experience with my roommates and new friends.

Sarah

What I have gotten ot of college is that interactions with other students are going to only help me in my career. Having this interaction in a learning environment allows students the chance to bounce ideas off one another, learn from each other, grow as a person, become mature adults, all while in the safety of the college environment and not the "real world". Having this four years to find out who I am, what I believe in, what causes I will stand up for, what I am passionate about, and what I really want to gain from getting my degree are going to only help when I begin my career. It has been valuable to attend college beccause I realize that not everybody gets htis opprtunity that I have and that I need to seize it now because one of these opportunities could really help later on down the road in my life. Plus I just feel blessed to be at a university, studying, and gaining all of these experiences that I otherwise would not be able to get.

Emily

I believe I have more than the average amount of confidence when it comes to knowing I picked the right university. I did not come fresh from high school to Florida State, rather I transferred as a sophomore from the University of Central Florida in Orlando, to FSU in the state's capital. Back in Orlando I had been living at my parents' house and commuting to UCF; this put wear and tear not only on my car, but also on what I had always seen as my college experience. I desired nothing more than living in a communal dorm, immersion in school spirit, 10 minute walks to class, and hopefully a room mate that wasn't too difficult to get along with. I am beyond enthralled that I have indeed found all this and more here at Florida State. Being on campus constantly has solidified my school pride, as well as my involvement in student organizations, and allowed me to sleep in. Living in a dorm has taught me how to tolerate less than perfect living conditions; luckily enough, though, my room mate and I are a perfect match. I never could have experienced this while living at home.

Anna

Honestly speaking, for the first two years of college, I did not have my head in the right place and had trouble adjusting to the new environment. I did not realize how important college was until my junior year of college and it hit me, "When will I ever get another chance like this to attend a great college and receive financial aid?" and "What will I do for the rest of my life? Work as a janitor?". Now, I'm in my second semester as a junior and regretting my mistakes of not trying harder in school. As a consequence, I have a 2.5 GPA. However, I just got a volunteer opportunity at a hospital nearby, changed my major, and am looking forward to a new start. Foolish of me? Indeed. But as they all say, "You learn from your mistakes". I love the bustling of students going from class to class, the excitement of meeting new professors, and overall environment of college. I am grateful for this opportunity to attend college and feel like a new and improved adult emerged from my immature and youthful shell I once had.

Roselene

As a first generation college student, I am an honored and grateful to have the opportunity to attend college. I am currently an elementary education major at the University of Central Florida. I just recently received my AA degree from Valencia Community College and my family and friends are so proud of my achievement. My college experience was a bumby journey from not having enough money to pay for my tution or my books and having family problems, the 2010 Haiti earthquake disaster. I thank the Lord for everything that I have been blessed with whether big or small. I am just thrilled to be a college student and being able to have the opportunity to go to school. College is so valuable to me because as a native of Haiti education is not guaranteed back in my country, but here in the United States I am able to reach my goals and make a difference in the world. Education has and always will be valuable and important to me because without one I will not be able to do the things that I am doing now, which is reaching my goals of becoming an excellent elementary teacher!

Valarie

Out of my college experience so far I have gained so much with learning good information that is going to benifit my life right now and in the future. College has been a very fun experience for me also with meeting new friends. It is nice to get away from home and experience new changes in life. College has been very important to me, because I want to show my parents and family that I am able to go to college even though they were never able to accomplish what I am doing. Seeing my parents and uncles/aunts struggle trying to make it paying the bills makes me not want to follow after there footsteps. Working at a restaurant or cleaning house is very hard to support a family and I know that from experience. I see it as if I didn't go to college I would be working at a restaurant and I can't see myself doing that forever. College gives me something to do and I enjoy it alot. It is also important to me, because many people can't go through life anymore with a High School Diploma.

Kelsea

Thus far, college has taught me to be self-reliant. I pay for college, for my books, for the gas to get to and from school, etc. In high school, everything was provided for me, but now, I need to rely on myself. I need to work hard to get to where I need to go. That, in my opinion, is one of the most valuable lessons that anybody can learn in their lifetime.

Kara

Out of my college experience, I have learned that I can not only make it on my own, but that I can make friends who will help me along the way. I knew no one when coming to this university, and now my close-knit group of friends will keep me on track with my education, are supportive of my goals, and are there for me when I have a bad day and just want to go running back to my mom, swearing to never grow up. I now know that I can take care of myself on my own and make my career dreams come true if I resist the temptations and follow what I think to be right, making the best friends for my own beliefs and doing what I have to to reach my goals. If I had not attended college, I would not have known I could make it on my own, or that I would be fine away from home, as I can make friends anywhere. I am glad I came to college and saw that my future is controlled solely by my own actions and ideas.

Julia

Since I arrived at Floria State, I've made a lot of new friends, experienced things I never had before, and learned more about other cultures and perspectives than I did in high school. College is valuable not only because of the level of education it offers, but also because of the opportunities it provides, from meeting people and making life-long connections, to discovering your plan for the future.

Matthew

I expected college to be like high school – a lot of work with little enjoyment – but I came to realize that the college experience is a lot more enjoyable than high school. The classes I am taking now have to deal with actual information I might need for my profession later in life. This fact alone made everything more interesting. Besides the classes, Florida State University offers lots of guidance for later in life, with help available for anything that has to do with building resumes to developing leadership qualities. Living away from home has enabled me to develop many life skills, such as managing my own time and activities, cooking and doing laundry. I have also matured socially at college. Meeting people is easy at FSU because everyone is so friendly and open to meeting new people. Initially I was taken aback by how welcoming everyone at the school is, but now that I have adjusted, I feel comfortable freely starting conversations with people I do not even know!

Ashley

Although I have not completed my entire college experience yet, I have learned valuable lessons about the world around me that I was oblivious to before. College made me realize the diversity of people, religion, thought, lifestyles, and personalities. It has facilitated my growth as a person as well as a scholar. I have learned things about myself so that I may improve and embrace it in the time to come. Had I not decided to attend this particular four-year university, I would not have had the excellent professors whom have guided me to my true passions, I would not have had the opportunity to do research, get an internship, or a job offer before graduation, and I would not have made the life-long friendships that I cherish. I look forward to the remaining time of my college experience.

samantha

I have made so many friends through my college experience. I also truly enjoy my classes and like to learn more and more about my major. College has been valuable to me because I was able to learn more about what I would like to do once I am out of college. I have also been able to find classes that truly interest me.

Amy

Throughout my time here at Florida State I have excelled in nearly every aspect of my life. The first skill I acquired while away at school was time management. When balancing a job, your schoolwork and outside activities such as Greek life and Intramural Sports it is crucial to know what is most important and to keep your priorities in line. I have also applied myself in each class, and with the assistance of my wonderful teachers, have achieved all of my goals. Aside from school events I have also gained a much deeper appreciation for my family. Being away from them is harder than I ever imagined, however with the absence of my family I have found one hundred and fifty amazing Alpha Delta Pi sisters to keep me company. Overall, attending Florida State has been beneficial in more ways than I can name. The traditions I have experienced and community I am now apart of continues to teach me new lessons everyday and I will forever be grateful.

Michael

I am learning alot of skills essential for the business world. Also, I am learning how to better interact with people and everyday common knowledge. I feel the better educated you are, the better future you will have. I enjoy being there on a regular basis and also meeting new people.

Courtney

College has been an invaluable experience to my intellectual, social, and moral development. Diversity of my educational background (transferred from Christian to secular university) has not only increased my understanding of my own religious tradition, but also what role it holds in society. After taking several religion classes at FSU, I gained valuable insight from the professors--who believed tolerance and objectivity were essential to the studing religion. Since these experiences, I've been more open to the fact that in most religions there is a nugget of truth to be found if one looks for it. Each individual's beliefs are deeply important to them, and though something may seem implausible, one should agree to dissagree with the other individual. Never should another viciously attack the other regarding their beliefs. Besides grappling with new ideas and determining why I believed what I believed and how to be more tolerant of others, college has also improved me in other ways. I've gained a strong work ethic from challenging courses. I've realized my responsibility as an individual to the world as a whole. I have become a cog in the machine. I will be a positive world-changing one.

Maxwell

Of my college experience so far, I've come to really appreciate school and the prospect of learning new things. High school was so easy that I became disengaged from school. It became hard to even care about what I was learning. Now that I'm in a college environment that pushes you to really strive to become something, I really love to learn. Not only that, the college enviroment gets you to interact with people whom you've never met before and it really shapes you into a better and more complete person.

kevin

In my short time at FSU, i have gotten alot out of it. First off, i have gained alot of knowledge from my classes. Some of the friendships i have made will stick with me for my lifetime.

Dustin

My college expirence has been very valuable to me and makes me want to attend every chance i get. It has taught me several different things in the short smesters that i have been there. It has helped me grow up, become more responseable as a young adult, and it has helped me become more prepared for life ingeneral. I can tell college has made me grow up more because i spend more time studying for my classes and for tests in place of playing video games and chilling with friends. It has made me become more responseable about my work and choises that i make. It has made me realize that everything i do has an affect on my life, and always will, and that anything can happen with in a blink of an eye. College has caused me to learn how to make my own decisions in life, and to look at what the out come could be for each and every choise that i make. With out going to college i would not have been woken up to all these facts about life as fast as i was.

Marcia

College is really just a great place to learn how to be on your own and is where people really mature. While a university is an institution of learning, there is so much more that a student learns than just what is taught in a classroom. Without going to college I would never have been exposed to so much diversity or gain the experiences that I have at college. The college experience has helped me mature so much and become more tolerable for people from all backgrounds. Even though the costs is something that can be discouraging, that amount that I have gotten out of college keeps me optimistic.

Daniel

I have learned that even being accepted to an institution of higher learning is a very arduous but rewarding experience that has helped boost my self confidence in my work and personal being that I could not or would trade for anything in the world. Knowing I was good enough to be allowed in is one of the greatest rewards I could possibly ask for, for all my hard work and studying in my high school career.

Ashley

Since I have been in college, I have achieved a greater understanding of time management and responsiblilty. It is 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} up to me to get to class on time and get my work done. I've learned to look ahead in time to see what I have going on and how to prioritize. Being six and a half hours away from home has definitely helped me to mature intp the type of person I will need to be once I graduate from Florida State and enter the real world.

Diana

Florida State University has surpassed my highest expectations. I have been enveloped with love and appreciation from the esteemed faculty and students. I truly appreciate the professors because when I talk with them they are excited to relay information that they have learned and researched for many years. Every time I communicate with my instructors I learn something new. I found that college truly is an environment for in depth learning. When I talk to my professors after class, pertainingto the lecture I learn much more about the subject through their personal experiences and relevant examples. Having the ability to talk to teachers who have wrote the textbook for the class allows me to obtain a different perspective on the material because I have the opportunity to pick the brain of my professors and gather information that took them years to discover. Through my college experience I have learned that I can obtain valuable information from most everyone including my peers. As a result of living with individuals from all socio-economic backgrounds I have learned that it is important to understand people.Through FSU I have been given the opportunity to have a very successful and prosperous furture.

Danielle

I have developed as a person at FSU because I have been able to assert myself in the niche that I have found there. I have been able to find a specific group of people that share the same interests as I do and I have been able to become a leader within that group; I know that these decisions will help me to be successful in the future.

Jessica

My undergraduate experience exposed me to many different people, research topics, and social experiences. In return I became a stronger more defined person. I started undergrad as a quiet, shy, indecisive student and came out a social butterfly with certainty. I learned to be comfortable in my own skin, and how to be more responsible. I’ve also learned that if you’re not careful it’s very easy to get caught up with drinking and partying. Tallahassee is a small city big on football. With every FSU football win there is more drinking and partying. Closer towards senior year I became more familiar with partying, however not drinking. Once the partying was over it was much easier to focus on studies, because most of the stress was released. Overall, I learned to be a well balanced student. Along with school work I also had a job, attended social events, and was involved in different clubs. All of these aspects of college resulted in me being a more defined stronger individual.