Georgia College and State University Top Questions

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

Suzy

Dear High School Senior Me, 1) DON'T slip back into the bad habits that you practice now. None of this doing homework the morning of; college professors can tell when you do that, and they WILL call you out. Do your homework DAYS in advance. You absolutely HAVE to work to keep up that 3.0 GPA to keep the HOPE scholarship. 2) GET INVOLVED. Go outside; go sit on front campus, go to the library and plan for next semester or go do homework. Join a club! By meeting people, you'll be connecting with your peers. 3) STAY CONNECTED. You know that awesome thing called "Facebook" that we signed up for like two years ago? USE IT. Keep in touch with all those people from High School. 4) SAVE MONEY. If there is one thing that you take away from this letter, I hope its this. Put the money in savings, and DON'T TOUCH IT. 5) WATCH WHAT YOU EAT. It is WAY too easy to fall into the "Freshman 15" trap. If you're limited in what you can carry, you're limiting how much you can eat. Good luck. -Me

Ariel

If I could time travel back to tell myself about the experiences in college I would be having I would reassure myself that the school work will get done even when it seems that it is an impossible feat. I would tell myself that I will have great professors and friends who will help me get through all of the times that I think that it will not all be accomplished on time. I would tell myself to get involved with the people and organizations that I would want to be surrounded by for the next four years because they are the people that will be your backbone and you will be theirs. Ultimately, the most important aspect I would want to convey to myself would be: college is more than just learning the information that you need to know to be successful; it is about truly learning who you are and taking that information and being the best version of yourself are doing the vocation that you are called to do., whether that be what you originally inteneded it to be or not.

Caleb

To continue to do the same level and quality of work that I did in high school. To make sure to use my resources to my full advantage and not be shy about asking for help when I need it. That the faculty are here for me and to use them as much as possible for my success. To not worry about trying to fit in and allow my GPA to drop because it is hard to get it back up once it has fallen. Make sure to learn how to balance a social life and school; if I'm not capable of doing so then school should be my number one priority. To not let my goals slip away because everything is possible to achieve and noting is out of reach.

Erin

I would have explored more career opportunities. Don't worry about partying all the time and focus more on getting scholarships, boy college is expensive.

Grayson

I would tell myself that you should start working harder. Time flies, and by attempting to procrastinate you only hurt yourself. I would say to work harder on the AP classes so that i can achieve better scores to exempt out of classes. Most of all i would tell my past self that everything in the future will work out well, and to not worry so much about the future; everything has a way of working out. Lastly I would tell myself to go ahead and thank my highschool teachers, especially my AP Calculus teacher before hand for the teaching they gave me; since it helped me decide to become a Math Major.

Joseph

I would tell myself to prepare for college by studying more and not procrastinating.

Lyndsey

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would have a lot to advise myself about college life. To help myself make a better transition into high school I would have to tell myself to just be myself and not to change for anyone. I would also warn myself that I would get very homesick in the first few weeks and it takes a little while to get used to being away from my family. Another thing I would tell myself is to work on my time management, because in college, time management is key because you will have way more work and studying to do. Most importantly, I would tell myself that grades are the most important thing. If I want to succeed in life, I have to do my best and work my hardest in college.

Julie

Look for somewhere where you could be at home. I went with a friend and because of that I didn't feel the need to get out and make new friends. I would suggest staying the dorms at least the first year. My experience in the dorms wasn't all good but it has taught me alot about life. Remember to stick it out, it gets really tough sometimes, but in the end it is worth every minute of the bad for the good.

Tim

You have to find the university that speaks to you and an individual, the one that resonates in your soul, when you find that match learning becomes enjoyable and adventurous. The name attached to that school shouldn't matter; it's an insignificant side note that only serves to feed ego and contempt. Once you've found the school that connects with you, everything becomes easy and fun. The stress melts away and you are left feeling inspired to learn and discover new things about the world and yourself. It's finding the place where you belong and getting involved on campus that makes your college experience worthwhile. College is a time where a person grows considerably and learns how they can contribute to the world and with the right college the journey of self-discovery can be a thrilling adventure. So search for the school that connects deep inside your soul; once you find that the rest is easy.

Emily

Make sure you are comfortable with your surroundings!! In the end, believe you have made the right decision, or your year will drag on and you might miss out on amazing things!

Paul

Let your kids be free to make their own choices

Rebecca

Imperative activities to complete while searching for the "right" college include researching; visiting the campus and taking a tour; and asking questions. Researching can provide immediate insight. Use your resources. Important information, such as financial aid and extracurricular activities, can usually be found on the college's website. Next, visit the campus. See the living spaces, the resources available (computer labs, learning services, etc.), and the learning environment. This can also give you an idea of what the surrounding area has to offer. Finally, ask staff, faculty and students questions. Not only will you get clarification, you can also determine who you can (or can't) depend on, and how friendly and helpful they are. To make the most of your college experience, make sure you are well rounded in both academic and extracurricular activities. Go to academic events, such as lectures, that the college offers. Use all of the resources available to you, that is why they are there. Get to know your professors and advisors; they are a good source of information and assistance. Participate in a number of extracurricular activities, such as internships, student organizations, sports, and volunteer work. Most importantly - make sure you enjoy the experience!

Elyssa

To students: seriously think about the learning environment that helps you thrive. You should choose a school first based on its ability to help you learn, not how awesome the fraternity or sorority parties are. To parents: you have to let your child choose his/her school, not your lifelong wishes for him/her to attend your alma matter. Choosing a college is a huge step for your child's future and it should be your child's choice. Trust his/her choice. If it ends up being the wrong choice after his/her first year, at least your child has learned something about him/herself.

Lauren

Visit every school possible. When you visit you will know if it is right for you. Also choose a school that has a big major selection. You do not want to chose a school that does not offer something you are intrested in. And lastly, make sure you get involved no matter where you go, branch out and meet knew people.

Amber

Choosing what college to attend can be one of the most stressful life choices to make. The most important thing to keep in mind while trying to find the perfect college for you is to do a lot of research. Once you do the research it will make your decision a lot easier. There are tons of blogs, surveys, and reviews about every college all over the internet. Most of these are filled out by students who are current or previous students of the school so they know first hand what its like, and they want to tell you what it's like. While searching out all of this information keep in mind what makes you happy in your life now. If its important to you that you work out everyday make sure you attend a school who has the facilities to make that happen. Once you pick your perfect school and move in, GET INVOLVED! It's the only way you are going to meet new people and make the most of your college experience. Join clubs, sports, fundraisers, anything that interests you. Most colleges have plenty of organizations to choose from with one thats guaranteed to fit you.

matt

Make sure your prospective college is what you want and what you need. Don't be scared to change if you arent comfortable and make sure to do your work and don't treat it like high school

Cynthia

I would suggest that parents and students choose a university that suits their needs the best. If a specific degree is desired, then a college should be chosen accordingly. However, if the student is undecided on a major, then a college that has a wide variety of degrees to choose from would be ideal. This gives the student the opportunity to explore exactly what degree they desire. Also, the college should fit the student's personality. Not all students thrive on a large college campus. Some prefer a smaller setting where they have more of an opportunity to develop more intimate relationships. Overall, the choice is a very personal one, and many aspects should be considered.

Barbara

I would tell teh parents to trust their son/daughter's choice in a school and trust that they would be okay in school without their constant watch. I would tell the students to pick the school that they think fits them the most and to not get sucked away in social stuff their first year to just get comfortable with college because it is very different from high school.

Andy

Most parents do not know their own children. Get to know the real person parents. Students find your self and DO RIGHT.

Lesley

Finding the specific college or university that suits you is not something one should agonize over. It should be an exciting exploration into what defines you as a person. As a student beginning this journey, it is all about questions and answers-- asking yourself what it is you want the most out of a college or university. Which activities mean the most to you outside of the schoolwork that is inevitabale? Would you feel more at home on a large campus or a smaller campus? Is joining a fraternity or sorority important to you? These are all some of the basic questions that should be answered before choosing the college of one's dreams. In answering these questions and making sure to tour and visit all of the college options that are on your list, you should be able to narrow down your choices to the perfect college for you. Once arriving on campus, make sure to get out and participate in as many activities as possible. Don't let anything pass by without trying it at least once, that is how you make friends and that is also how you learn and grow.

Valerie

Before you make a choice of what college you go to, make sure you visit the college. Also, when you visit, don't just visit the campus, but to definitely visit the surrounding area to give you a good idea of what kind of background the school gives.

William

I would tell students to not pay to much attention to their parents when deciding where to go, except about finacial parameters. Its the student going to school. Talk to the people that graduated before you. What do they like and dislike about their school. Do not talk to the kids that are just a year older, but the ones that have been there a while, and have had a chance to settle in. Visit the school a few times. Look and see how the people on campus act. If they are like you, if they seem to do the same things you do, than chances are you will fit in. Also, look at a class catalog. See what the school offeres. If you know what you want to study, then there is no point in going somewhere that does not offer the courses you need. After all, you are there for an education. Finally, look at the town/city around the school. Is it somewhere you want to live? Because that is the actual place you will have to call home for hopefully four years.

Amber

I would advise students to ask themselves what they value the most. Therefore, when they visit a campus, they should see if they can identify these special values at the college. If they want to have personal relationships with the staff of the college, they should choose a smaller college with small class sizes. If they know what they would like to pursue in life, they should pick a school that is known for that field. When they visit a campus, they should also look at the surrounding area of the college. This area will provide them with what they physically need in life: food, health services, work, activities, and places to volunteer. Work is needed so the student can contribute to the school's community and have purpose. Students should observe the campus itself, and ask themselves if the campus if uplifting and safe. Students should also see the the school has plenty of resources. Housing is also very important for students to look at because they will spend most of their time there. Housing should be affordable, reliable, and plesant. Parents of the students should support their child's decision if it will make them happy and successful.

celia

You have to find a college that fits best with you. It will come to you dont try to force a college on yourself because you think thats where you should go. Follow your heart it will lead you to the best college for you

Meagan

Dear Student: As you look for the right college, think about where you can see yourself growing the most. College isn't about finding where you feel the most comfortable and finding the same friends you've always had. In actuality, college is about meeting people and friends who help you ask questions about who you want to be. The best part about your college years is finding out what you personally believe in and what kind of people you want to surround yourself with. To make the most of your college experience, try new things...do something you've never done before, but most importantly, don't compromise what is true to who you are inside. It is important to keep an openmind, but try to make choices that you will regret. There is so much freedom in finding who you are, but just be smart enough to listen to what your heart and mind are saying. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, because that is what learning is all about. Be excited about the future and always look for an opportunity to learn and grow. By doing this, you'll find yourself to be happy and free.

Daniel

The best advice that I can give is to pick the college based on the major desired. Never pick the major to justify going to a particular school. Picking the college for the major is the best way to garuntee that the program is the best one for the student. Although picking the school first, then the program can result in the best match, the odds are much slimmer. Second, don't be afraid to let social lives suffer. The student is at college to learn - not to play. Socializing may make the academic more tolerable, indulging in social events too often has the affect of reducing GPAs , not boosting them. So never be afraid to skip an event because of school. Third, start off by over working. It is alot harder to increase your work ethic than it is to start procrastinating.

Sarah

Finding the right college is something that I was dreading. All those applications and the same questions over and over again. And then there are those questions that you can't even answer, and then you have to run to mommy and daddy for help. My suggestion is to sit down with your parents and fill out the applictions together. You can learn from each other and really find out what you are looking for in a college. Are you interested in the social life, academics, how big it is, or how far away it is? You should rank all of these from most important to least important. That way when you get back your acceptance letters from more than one school it will be easier to pick. Lastly, all I have to say is get involved. No matter where you go you need to find a good support group that will always be there. Find people that are interested in the same things as you. But make sure these things are healthy and beneficial to your well-being. These friends will help you through your journey to the next chapters of your life. Don't ever loose them.

Amanda

The students need to pay attetion in class. That's all it really takes. Just put a little effort in.

Zack

The first thing I thought about was distance away from home. I wanted to get away from home but I didn't want to get to far away and GCSU is just the right distance. I think you should look at what you want to do. You need to check if the school you want to attend has the major you want and if they do how good that program is. Next I would check out size. Do you want a large or small school? You should also look at the social life. Are there fraternities and sororities and intramural sports.? Check to see if there are other clubs or organiations you would like to be a part of. All of these things played a part in my choicing and making the most of my college life.

Jeffrey

My first piece of advice is to do your research on all the different colleges available. Take tours of the campuses, scheduled and unschelduled, and talk with students who know what is going onl. Ask as many questions as you can, find out every detail that you will need to know. All students should get involoved with school events; by doing so you are being part of something and it will benifit you in the end. Housing is a major issue with colleges, I would find out the prices, saftey, transportation to and from, food resoucres, and comfort. If you are not forced to live in the dorms your Freshman year I would recommend it. Not only is living in the dorms cheaper you get a great experience, and if you don't like it then after the first year you are free to move out. Also look into scholarships, everything is getting more and more expencive and it is hard to keep up with all the finances. Take time and search for the different opportunties out there. Last but not least, have fun in college and study hard.

Chenda

Students, if you feel like a cetain university is right for you, do everything in your power to get there. and do your very best while you're there. College will only be meaningful if you feel like you've found a new hometown to learn, work and live in; make the most of every day. Parents, let go and be supportive!

Brian

Look for a college where you feel comfortable. A place where you can be yourself and find others with your interest. Don't be afraid to express yourself because college is the place where you discover who you really are.

Danielle

Always take a tour and ask a lot of questions, while on the tour always ask to look at a dorm room and even be able to talk to a student and a professor that is in the field of your interest. I would also recommend going to college fairs that can give you a variety of schools so then you can limit your choices down. I started with five schools and after the fair, i has decided on three and then that is when i visited each school.

Jason

My advice for parents in finding the right school for their child would be to visit the school as often as possible and visit the classrooms. It's important for the enrolling student to experience the classroom atmosphere and also speack to several fo the students at the college to ask the questions most important to them. The college should offer all the classes needed for the sutdent to graduate with the type of college degree he or she wishes to obtain. In speaking with the students already enrolled at the college, you should make sure to speak with some of the upperclassmen who have attended the college for some time. Questions for some of the upperclassmen should include topics such as what they do in their free time, how available are the professors to help when needed, and are the students generally happy attending this college. It's important for the upcoming new student to feel that they will be happy attending the school and have the best opportunities available to them in order to be successful in getting the college degree they would like to receive.

Britton

My advice to students is to start touring colleges early on in your senior year of high school. Make an effort to talk with current students because they will be the most honest with you when it comes to getting the scoop on campus life. As for making the most out of the college experience I say try to enroll in courses that you would never think to take otherwise. You can meet the most interesting people that way and can even discover passions that you never knew you had. I also strongly encourage students to volunteer as much as they can. Being an active volunteer in your new community is a great way to network and make a difference. You are a steward of your college so make sure your actions are those in which you wish to be remembered for.

Staci

Make sure to take as many trips as possible. You will eventually find a school that just sits right with you. If you can get in, and it has a variety of majors, especially if you don't know what exactly you want to do, you need to make sure there are multiple options. Don't be afraid to say no to a school either, even if they offer you a scholarship. You need to be happy with where you will spend the next four years of your life, or, if you're like me, then you'll plan on grad school there as well. If you aren't comfortable being there, then you will get homesick very easily, and trust me, living back home with mom and dad is NOT what you want to do.

Rachel

To parents: I would strongly encourage you to allow your child to make the final decision. I think that parents should have imput, but it is ultimately the student's decision and what they will live. It is a great, life-changing, and growing experience for a student to live away from home when going to college, so I advise parents not to try to convince their children to stay close to home. To students: Make of list of qualities that ou will not waver from. There is a school out there for you, with everything you want. There is the school that is meant for you. Take tours, and don't be afraid to ask silly questions. You'll wish you had later if you don't. Eat in the school cafeteria, see the dorms. Imagine how you would feel if you lived in that town. You'll find the right place if you don't settle for second best. Once you're in college, put yourself out there. Don't be afriad to get involved. Let your parents miss you and don't pull away too much. It's hard for them too.

Caroline

Choosing the right college is a major decision. Students need to go visit their prospective schools before they choose the right one. I college may look good on paper but you need to make sure it actually fits you and lives up to its expectations. When you get to college, get involved. You will meet so many people by being involved with groups you are interested in and have a passion for. These groups can also help you figure out what you love to do and in turn help you choose the right major. Take your studies seriously, but also remember to relax with friends because this is where your lifelong friends are made. You also don't want to regret never going out for dinner with friends when you get into medical school and have no time to yourself. Overall, do what feels right to you. College is whatever you make it. Go in with a bad attitude and you won't get as much out of it but go in ready to take on a new adventure and you will have the time of your life.

Andrew

Hey Student, It is finally time to leave home and set out on an amazing adventure, where you will experience new freedom, new friendships, and new feelings toward the world around you. But first, you have to choose the college where this adventure will begin. There are three key steps in finding the perfect college for you. First, make a list of schools you would like to attend; based on academics, location, size, and the social life. Next, find out as much information as you can about the school through people you know who already attend, because they will have the down low on how the school really is. Finally, visit the school for yourself! You won't know if the school is right for you until you get there. So, just chill out and look forward college! Dear Pre-Collegiate parent, Im sure excitement and fear are rushing through you as the time approaches to let your child fly on their own and show the world what they can do. As a student, the most important thing a parent can do for a college student is provide unconditional emotional support. Just let them know your there! Enjoy your adventure!

Eleanor

When applying for colleges, never choose a school just because your friends are going there. Go visit multiple schools, sit in on classes, talk to people, and choose the one that's right for you. If you do that, you'll find plenty of new friends wherever you go. Make sure your college will challenge you in every way possible - academically, spiritually, politically, and whatever else. Don't settle for anything when you know you can do better. Once you're at school, get involved! A good mottos to have is to try anything once!

erin

Make sure to visit the school on several occasions so you are able to get the best outlook on the school. This will allow you to view all the events that go on around the campus and also give you time to check out what the school has to offer.

Rachel

Visit A LOT of colleges before you choose where to apply. Make a list of qualities that you are looking for in a school and ask a lots of questions when touring. Eat in the cafeteria. Go to the departments you are interested in and talk to professors that you might have. Look into extracuriculars that you are interested in. Talk to current students other than the tour guide. Parents: Ultimately, it is the student's choice because they are the one that has to live with their decision.