Gardner-Webb University Top Questions

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

Kenneth

The advice I would like to give myself as a senior would be to keep my papers more organized and not write so many flemzy type essays. The advice comes from now that I'm in college the professors here expect very intriguing and very well written papers; and the prefer that your voice come out and not let it be the expected book answer more of the rawness of me to come out. I realize that my usage of strong voice or lack of it in high school put a strain on me in my first semester of college.

Bridget

Wouldn?t every one of us jump at the chance to be able to go back in time and change the course of events that have shaped our lives? I know I sure would. But since that?s not possible, maybe my wisdom will help just one high school senior who is preparing for college. First of all, no college advisor is ever going to tell you that once you graduate you may only qualify for entry level work, or that employers aren?t really that impressed with your degree. Do the research to find out which degrees matter depending on the kind of work you really wish to pursue; save yourself an expensive disappointment. And don?t expect that you will be rewarded with the corner office just because you studied for four years; you?re really not that special. Challenge yourself instead of taking the ?easy A? classes. After all, what is the point of breezing through four years with no real knowledge to show? Finally, always educate yourself on all tax credits, grants, CLEP testing, and scholarships available to you. Uncle Sam will be very pleased to know you missed out on his education tax credits.

Rebecca

Becki, you're a high school senior now, and I know that you have very little faith in yourself. Listen carefully, and remember what I'm going to tell you. Keep in mind, I know you quite well. No one can defeat you other than you, yourself. You are as capable as anyone out there, and moreso than some. Whatever it is, you have the ability to conquer it. Even Math. Even Statistics. If you believe in YOU, you can do anything. Remember, I'm 50 years old now, and I've seen alot that you haven't......but you will. Believe in yourself, and be yourself. I know you feel like you're so different, and that makes you feel like you don't fit in. I assure you, everybody feels that way. It's your age and the fact that you have so little life experience under your belt. Don't follow unless you're certain that the person leading is going exactly where you want to go. College can be a fantastic experience for you, but only if you are true to who you really are, and what you really want. Think it through. You're blessed.

Clemond

Respect yourself, family, God and others. Respecting one's self because college is a totally different atmosphere than that of high school. There are things that are happening around one, that if one participates in these things they could be lost and totally forget exactly why they have enrolled into college. There is ample peer pressure that is presented and if one do not respect themselves then they are surely to fail. By respecting one self, I also mean, not having sex with every female that is out there in the world. Come to school to make friends but most of all achieve a great college education. One must first understand that one's body is the "temple of God." Smoking weed or drining alcohol is not appreciating the great blessing that God has bestowed to us. Once one gets to college they must remember what they have been taught by one's family. Do not become overwhelmed by the college atmoshphere and lose sight of your family values. One must be able to decipher between what is wrong and what is right. Respect others because college is very social and to avoid arguments just learn to respect others.

Lisa

Don't sweat the small stuff because they will work themselves out. As long as you continuing being a responsible and determined individual then there will be no problems. You're really becoming the person you wanted to be and seem to be on the right path to continue to achieve that goal. Remain strong and keep looking to the future ahead. Enjoy the ride!

Journie

Don't be scared. Gardner-Webb holds some of the friendliest people around to help make the transition easier. The professors aren't out to fail you, they're here to help you pass. Don't be a biology major, it won't last long. Go ahead into music education. It's where you're happiest.

Jamie

Do your research and your visits to find the right school for you, your interests, and your finances.

Latiff

when applying for college, I strongly recomend at looking at average class sizes, I say this because students get lost in class sometimes and its hard to get help from the professor. At a smaller school students are guarnteed more time with the professor and learn moral and ethical skill that will better the student to be successful in the world.

Heather

There is much to be said about the statement "College is what you make it," but it is equally important to say the "Right college is what you make it." Choosing the right college is crucial to the whole college experience. Finding the right college can be difficult, but if applicants follow several guidelines, then college can be more than an educational opportunity; an enjoyable endeavor with lots of benefits. First, prospective students must learn about the student body, especially if they are going to live on campus. They should learn about campus events and activities, what to do off campus, volunteer opportunities, the student body make-up, and dorm-life. Asking students that attend the school already can offer a greater vartiety of answers than the traditional school answers. Social life is important to college students and reflect on learning so students must consider their interests with the social atmosphere of the school. Another important guideline is to observe the school's educational structure. Sitting in classes, interviewing professors and students, and conversing with academic advisors are several ways to learn about the classroom. By examining these two realms of college equips students to make the right choice.

Holly

Finding the right college is perhaps one of the most stressful decisions that a student will make in his or her life, up to this point. Choosing the right college is all about finding a good fit for the student. The pertinent first step is to explore what each potential college has to offer educationally; if a student is interested in a particular program, it is important to research where it is offered. After discovering which schools offer a degree, there is no way to tell if the college is right for a student without a visit. Each college has a unique atmosphere and it is important to consider where a student will feel most comfortable. The visit will expose the student to what daily life is like at the college. Most of the time, this will be a huge clue as to whether he or she can envision a future at this school. Once the school is chosen and the student is enrolled, he or she can make the most of the college experience simply by getting involved as much as they can. Working hard, making connections, and forming lifelong friendships are all things that make college satisfying.

Jamie

Start considering what major you are interested in during your junior year at the latest. Then research schools online that provide that major in the region you wish to attend. Narrow your choices to about three or four schools. Take time to visit those schools, especially when they have the weekends set up for visitations, during the fall of your senior year. Go ahead and apply to about three schools of your interest by December of your senior year. Do this to keep your options open and close doors to your choices before you even have a chance to begin your college career. Search the schools websites for which you are interested to see if they have extra-curricular activities within your interests. Also look at the costs of tuition and other fees. If possible, go onto my space or facebook to look at profiles of alumni from the colleges you like to see how fulfilled the alumni are in their own fields based on their educational experiences. By the spring of your senior year, settle one on school that has accepted you that fits the requirements for your academic and extra-curricular life pursuing financial funding for your degree.

Terra

The process of the college search and selection is a very important one that will dramatically effect the next four years of your life and have implications on your future. It is a process that can be very difficult and time consuming. The most important piece of advice that I would give is to be open-minded. It is vital that students explore options all over the world and colleges of all types. There is such a wide variety of colleges that anyone could find virtually anything that they desire. So be open-minded and do the research needed to find what you want. It takes a lot of time but it well worth it when you find the right college. I would give similar advice when making the most of college. Students should know what they believe and want but also be open-minded about exploring other views and getting to know people who appear different than them. Students will encounter the best experiences in college when they are not afraid to get out of their confort zones and get involved with campus activities and the community.

Alison

Make it a place you are happy and comfortable. If you can't go to a different school, your education will be about the same where ever you go.

Anne

Make sure the college fits your academic as well as personal and social preferences. The college should be acredited and should have a strong department with your intended major. Focus on the students should be of importance, as well as faculty interest in students success. Make sure th school feels right.

Killashandra

Make sure the school is financially possible, but never ignore the possibility of a school because of money, there are always funds. Keep an open mind, you may end up completely happy where you said you would never go. Visit the campus on a day when classes are in session, this will tell you a lot about the school and the students there.

Jennifer

One thing I plan on doing with my kids one day woulf be to really make alist of things they want out of college adn what things we want in c college. Then I would take the time to look with my kids, to go talk to colleges, talk to people that go to that school and whole also went to that school. Find the right college is important adn it cost alot of money. One tip I would advise would be if you are uncertian of a major then it wouldn't be bad to go to a community college for a couple years and deside what you want to do. That way you can also get alot of your core classes out fo the way and when you go to a big school you can focus on your major.

LaQuanda

Allow the student to obtain their dreams and goals, not what the parent wanted to do or feels they should have done. It's your student's time now to express themself. Stand behind them in whatever they decide, also help them decide. Give them ways to figure out their future. If it's a hobby and they love to do it, they might as well get paid to do it.

RACHEL

That this an amazing place to go to school it has its drawbacks, but every school does. For me the positives out weighted the negatives and my four years here where some of the hards and best years of my life.

Amber

It has been said many times, attitude is everything. This is a true statement. If you remain poistive, realistic, but positive you can accomplish anything. This is true when entering any situation or trying to find a home away from home. Find a college that suits you whether it be large or small, but remain positive. Education is priceless and need not be tainted by an suffocating outlook.

LaQuanda

Don't put off til tomorrow what you can do today. Encourage your children to finish high school, take an interest in their homework and extracirricular activities and then assist them when deciding on college choices. It makes the student feel good, like you care and are not glad that they are "moving out". Be supportive of what your child is going to do. Encourage them that once they decide on a major, try to stick with it. The more they change majors, the longer they will be in school because of constantly "having to start over" and make sure that their major is something they like and they didn't decide on that major because mom or dad always wanted to go to school for that or because mom or dad is a doctor doesn't mean Brooke or James has to be.

Rebecca

I would advise anyone looking for "that right" college to go visit the campus, spend the night, and go sit in on a few classes that may be in your major. Find the school that fits you, don't settle for something that you dont want! As far as making the most of your college experience, do what you are supposed to for school and make time for friends. Learn to prioritize, friends will still be there when the paper, project, etc is done, if not; they aren't real friends anyway! Good Luck on the journey!

Lea

GO VISIT THE CAPUS!!!!!!!!! For the longest time I thought I wanted to go to a big state school! But I really didn't like them once I visited! Everything was too big! Then when I visited GWU I fell in love with it! The capus is gorgeous and the people are so friendly! Everyone knows everyone! It's such a great community!

Hyatt

The most important thing that needs to be considered is the type of person you are. By this I mean that if you don't like cities, don't attend a university in a city. It is better to be at a school you like and with the people you tend to like so that friendships can develop. The best university for what you want to do may not be the best university for you and it is important to find the right fit. With that said, you also need to ensure that the university you choose will open you up to diversity. I firmly believe it is important to meet people who are different than you and bring different life experiences to the table so that you can learn from them. It is also important that you avoid a party school, you are at school to learn and are paying to attend so make use of it. If you can do these three simple things your college experience will be rich and full of learning.

Tyler

I feel that choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a person will ever make in their life. It is vital for parents and students to have a clear and true understanding of the college they, or their child, will be attending. In finding the right college visiting and talking with current students is so important. It is crucial to have a feel for what the campus community is like, how the students interact, the ways the faculty teach and mentor and the overall attitude of all on campus. The college experience must be enjoyed above anything else. Making lifelong friends, creating unforgettable memories, learning important lessons about oneself and the world around them and having fun are the best way to make the most of the college experience! You have to let go of your inhibitions, make yourself vulnerable at times, stick to your convictions, challenge what you believe in, and be willing to understand and learn about those around you and how you fit into this world.

Laura

I would encourage students to look for a college that not only meets their expectations (major, sports, religious affiliation, etc.) but that also provides a new experience. Our college years are our only opportunity to travel, meet new people, and experience new things before we are tied down by the responsibilites we'll accept once we graduate. I would ask parents to encourage their son or daughter and let them know that they are loved. Make them aware of your support and your trust in their decisions. In turn, I encourage those entering into college to use this time to get to know your parents better, but this time on a different level. Reassure them that although you're on your own and away from home, you still respect and love them. For some, entering into college can be terrifying; for others it's an adventure. Remember to be bold, keep an eye out for new experiences, know what your convictions are, and be yourself.

Hannah

Applying for college can be one of the most stressful times for parents and students. The important things to look at are your interests for the future. Does this college have a strong program in your intended field of study? Also, class size is important. Are you looking for a larger college with lecture halls or a small classroom with a more personal environment? Things like social activities are worth researching. Is there alcohol and tobacco allowed on campus? Are intramurals and clubs the right ones for me? Depending on which college campus you choose could depend on the person you become. You need a college that fits you in class size, major and religious beliefs. The environment that is available has great influence in your life. Choose to surround yourself with a positive environment.

Lauren

My advice is that most students know when they get on the campus, that this is the right campus for them. When I stepped on GWU's Campus I knew this is where I wanted to go here. Also, try to pick a school with a good academic background. If you are worried about fraternites and Sororities don't be. those can help your son/daughter make more friends. But you shouldn't have to join one they can make friends another way, and trust me they will make friends.

Melissa

I would like to advise parents and/or students to pray and ask God where it is you should go. That is what I did and though I am now complaining about the incredible amount of money I have to spend to go here, I know He will provide for me, weather it be this scholarship or something else. God, ultimately, knows where all of us need to be in order to thrive as His creation. I am perfectly aware that not all people believe in God the way I do and that is sad because He loves you and I so much and He wants to show us His plan for our lives, we just need to allow Him to. The way I described it to my niece is: God is perfect. But everyone else has good and bad in them. The closer you get to God, the smaller the bad in you gets and the bigger the goodness gets. If we can just allow God to bring out all of the good in our lives, we would stress less about making the wrong choice. So I advise parents and/or students to look to God for decision making.

Jonathan

Gardner-Webb is one of the best values in the country when looking at a private christian school. The atmosphere is friendly and conservative, while being loose enough for each student to open up and truely find themselves. There doesn't exist an institution more friendly or focused on a student's advancment in the long-run. As far as finances go, the University offers a variety of competitive scholarships and makes you aware of grants available; on top of this the campus offers work-study programs at different places on campus as well as opportunity to work for the university in admissions, technical, and maintnance positions. The environment surround the campus is the embodiment of the rural Carolinas, about an hour from the mountains, located on the Broad river. There is a lot of opportunity for camping, rock climbing, and other out-door activities. On top of all of these luring aspects, the University has 21 varsity D1 athletics and students get in all events free. Last year ESPN came and covered one of our upsets, and our team contested for conference titles in basketball and football.

Lacey

Go to the college that fits you best, not neccesarily what is cheapest, but the one where you would be the happiest.

Bo

Take your time and explore your options while trying to find the right college to go to. Don't rush into any decision and don't let any decision be based off of just one factor. Try to base your college decision off of as many factors that you can think of. To enhance your college experience, I would advise that you try to participate in as many activities on campus as possible without burning yourself out. When you participate in as many activities as possible you not only have fun, but you also get the chance to meet new people and build friendships that will last a lifetime.

Emily

My advice to the parents of any college-bound student, but to the student himself/herself would be, find a college that bests fits who you are and leave space open for your developement as a person. It's okay if you don't know what your major is or will be, and if you have to switch schools to find the right degree program for you, that's okay too! No one elses acedemic success or failure matters when it comes to your schooling, because in the long run the only thing that will matter will be the effort you put forward and the achievements you've made. You will find who you are and you won't always be awkward, but you will be changed. Go where you can grow best and where you can be nutured--even if it's out of your comfort-zone. Sometimes, that's where we grow best.