Georgia Southern University Top Questions

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

Demetris

In choosing the best college, it is always best to visit the college campus and ask a myriad of questions from the dining halls to the medical center on campus. Always make sure you are getting enough "bang for your buck" as well especially when it comes to life in the classroom, extra-curricular activities, and social climate. As far as making the most of the college experience, my advice to you is to go to almost every event that your resident hall or college plans. It's a great way to get out there and meet new people as well as forming the base for networking. Another way to meet people are club and intermural sports. Find something that you've wanted to try and just didn't have time for or go with a sport that you love. The best piece of advice to get the most out of college is to get out the dorm room; have fun, these four (or five) years are the best of your life and they will go by fast, so take advantage of every opportunity to enjoy them.

Martha

I would say that you have to visit the college before deciding you want to go there. I would tell the parents not to pressure their kids in picking a certain school, because the kid has to go their for the next four years of their life, so they to want to go there.

Emma

Make sure to go on college visits and ask lots of questions. Getting involved is the best way to enjoy you college expierence!

Patrick

Parents should not only look for a strong academic institution, but also listen to their children. Students should look for a place that offers experiences that will expose them to some new things, but also a place where they fit in. College has taught me to open my mind and taught me responsibility. Students should also follow their heart and go with their gut feeling about a school.

Jenn

College is an experience that you or your child should want. As much as it may pain you, if you do not feel excited and anxious about going to college, you may not do well and may be very unhappy. Parents: Please understand that this is your child's life. Do not push any particular major on your child--let them choose their own course. Let them make their life decisions. Please let your child grow up--you'd be amazed how well they can do if only given the opportunity. Students: As corny as it sounds, follow your heart. You are making an investment in your life, so put it in the area that means the most to you. Don't be afraid to change majors or even take out loans to stay in longer. Also, professors are one of the best resources you have, so make friends with them. Always do your best and never be afraid to ask for help. Try to learn the material not for the test but for your own betterment. Trust that any college you choose can be good for you so long as you try in school, social life, and overall happiness.

matt

Go with friends...

Linsey

I would suggest to visit the campus many times. Try the food in the careteria before buying a meal plan, because you could be wasting money. Make sure you look at the different places to live. Do all of these things at many different Universities. By looking at all these things at many different places you can compare the qualities and the dissatisfactions with the different Univeristies. Go with the university with the least dissatisfations and the biggest qualities that you want in a college. When you are accepted go to as many social events as possible these will be the best experiences in your college career because you can meet so many people. Also make sure you always go to class, believe me teachers will notice when you are not there. And make sure you get to know all your professors, because you never know when you will need their help later. If you get the chance to study abroad, do it. It is the best experience you will ever have. Last but definitely not least, have as much fun as possible, live it up you will never have a chance like this again.

richard

go visit the college and talk to regular students and get they're first hand experiences

Amanda

Find something that fits your life. Try to decide what you want to major in and find the school who has the best program. Don't try to be somebody you're not, always be yourself. Work hard, study hard; it will pay off in the end. It only takes 4 years to get thru' college, so buckle down and get it done!

Sam

Always visit a college before you go. Once you are in college, if you see anything on campus that interests you in the least, do it. You never know what might happen and what doors you could open if you try something new. College is all about trying new things, so I encourage you to TRY.

Erin

Base your decision on your choice, not what school is the most popular or the biggest, but by what feels right to you. Don't let anyone make the decision for you because no one will be living there or going to school there but you. And most importantly get involved, it makes college a lot more fun and gives you opportunities to meet more people and will make getting a job after college a lot easier.

Jessica

Make sure that your choice is not based on one factor that attracts you about the college, but that many aspects of that college attract you. Remember, there is always a possibility that your child may change major and must be accomodated.

Katrina

The first thing to understand about college is that MISTAKES WILL HAPPEN. College is all about learning to be self-reliant and independent. It's a hard adjustment, but worth it in the end. Students, most days will be easy enough to handle, but sometimes there will be a problem that you will have to figure out for yourself. Mom and Dad can't help you all the time, but you can do it! Parents, as hard as it is to send your "babies" off to college, the best thing you can do for them is to not coddle them and micromanage so that not only are you protecting them from EVERYTHING, but you're not letting them experience anything either! Trust your children to make good choices, and go a little easy on them when they come home tattooed, pierced, and with a newfound knowledge of drinking games. They are experimenting. They are studying and going to school at least 3 or 4 days out of the week, not bad for a freshman. Be their cheerleader, no matter what!

Brian

Students need to decide where they want to attend college. Parents should just give advice. When deciding, one should look for a environment where he/she feels comfortable and a place where they can excel in school.

Elissa

I would tell parents to really look into the way the campus looks because it is definitely something that will bring a student closer to their school overall. When a student likes to be on campus, it will show in the way they interact on campus and the kind of activities they will enjoy. To students, it is really important to come to the campus and see how comfortable they feel on it as well and I would suggest visiting a number of campuses to find the one that is right for them. I would go on to tell future students to really look at a lot of schools instead of thinking of only one that they feel they will be set on because they might change their mind after a year or two at that school. It is always smart to choose a number of schools and then narrow them down to the best ones in their eyes.

Erica

visit the schools early (like at the end of junior year of high school), apply for scholarships early, do research, ask current students the questions you want answers to because they know what it's really like, and remember that college is a new experience and you should take full advantage of all the opportunities available

Dane

When figuring out what institution is best for you start looking early so you give yourself plenty of time to visit and really get a feel for different universities. Don't get caught up with where friends are going to school make the choice that suits you best. While in college, don't do the same things you did in high school or hang out with only the people you once did. Get out there and experience new things so that you really do get the most of the college experience.

Brianna

Make sure they feel comfortable on the campus, that they actually like the way its laid out and the teachers here. Check out the different majors and talk to upper classman to find out what they like or don't like about the campus and teachers.

Evan

think

Ben

Find a college that fits you best that meets your needs and will cater to you. If you are nothing more than a number and not an individual then you may lose yourself in the system and never be able to keep up. Find a town that you will enjoy living in but not be soo much fun that it will distract you from staying focused on your studies when necessary. Enjoy college while you are there it only happens once and you will never get the chance for that kind of experience again. Test your boundries but don't loose them, try new things but be safe, meet new people but be yourself, and find who you are but don't loose who you were.

Candace

Do your research! Visit various campuses, attend open houses, and find out which college will fit you or your child best. Start early! Don't wait until senior year to start looking at different schools. When applying, apply to more than just one college. I would recommend applying to at least three different schools. Find out which schools offer scholarships that you or your child can apply for also.

Diana

Choosing the right college or university can be very difficult. All you can do is use the information you have in front of you and guess at what will make you happy in the future. I didn't get accepted to the college I believed was right for me. So I dragged my broken heart to my second-choice school and now, a year later, I can't imagine being anywhere else. I didn't know anyone when I moved away to college, but by getting involved on campus I've made more friends than I ever dreamed I would. It's funny how life works out. Everyone has a different path. Don't be afraid to take a chance and go somewhere or do something unexpected. There's no better feeling than surprising yourself.

jon

Talk with current students and the professors that will be taching you

Erika

you need to look at it first and ask the people who go there

Adam

Talk to real students on campus, not just the tour guides. Definetly go with a school that fits your academic/personal interests and goals. Its always advised to room with people you know. Joining a frat or soriority the first year is not always the best thing, they take up too much time. Really invest a lot of time looking into colleges, if you pick the right one you will be a whole lot happier. Cheaper isnt always better, its cheap for a reason. Your going to make friends wherever you go, make the most out of any situation.

Stephanie

I cannot help you out on how to choose your college. I chose mine because I have always wanted to be closer to the coast and I liked how the dorms gave more privacy to on-campus housing. It was more of a gut feeling to go where I am, and I have been very happy since. I also would urge you to rush a fraturnity or sorority if that seems like something you'd be willing to commit to. It's a great way to get involved and have a social life, you'll meet SO MANY different people. Greek Life can be looked down upon on some campuses, but you should see it for yourself first. As for parents, basically your job is done with your future college kid. All that is left now is a few years of supporting them financially. Trust me, there will be moments of your son/daughter screwing up, but let them learn on their own or they'll just do it again. Also, don't be super harsh on him/her with grades. If they're bad I'm sure they're more disappointed than you.

Alexander

make sure you know what it is exactly that you want to get out of your college experience and know the right place to recieve the education necessary for your success.

candice

make sure the school has a high focus on academics but also a social life.

Sarah

Go visit the colleges more than once, and think for a long time about whether the college would be where you want to spend 4 or 5 years at.

Dayon

I would tell them that look for the school that would fit the child's atmosphere. Academics also plays a big role in the decisions and the job offers that the child will receive after he or she graduates. Also, try to be encourage in forming study groups, which allows you to make friends and do well in classes.

Raquel

When trying to find the right college consider the area, the graduation rate, what percentage of people get a job after graduation, what is the average salary of someone that graduates from that college. Make sure they offer their major and do some research and find out the classes that are required for them to graduate. Find out what is the percentage of students that graduate on time. Make SURE you tour the campus to get a feel of where your child will be getting their education. Ask about any additional required test and find out about transportation and housing. Find out about a list of clubs and ways of getting your child involved on campus. Do they offer tutors in various subjects? How is the internet access? How big are the classes and will your child have a choice in the size of class the want? Nothing is better than a personal opinion, so if allowed the chance to visit the campus, give your child the chance to interact with students that attend the school and ask their opinion on their likes and dislikes of the school. Also check out the community and the local establishments in the area.

Gary

College is not all about the classes you take it is also about the life experiences you gain.

Tim

When trying to find the right college, make sure parents and students work together to find what is best for both. Find a school that is strong academically, as well as having a small student/teacher ratio so you get one on one time with your professor. Find not the cheapest school, but the school where you get your most experience per dollar. If you don't enjoy something at the school that you are interested in doing, you probably should look elsewhere. Apply to several schools and weigh the options.

Elise

Tour them all. Be open to all different kinds of campuses and when you find the right one, tell your parents. Parents, let your kids have some freedom in deciding. Don't pressure them saying "This is beautiful, look at that they have one of those, well maybe you shouldn't because they offer this, etc." Just because it isn't your dream campus does not mean it isn't theirs. Be open to big and little schools. I thought I wanted to go to UGA but I toured Georgia Southern and knew that is where I wanted to go, end of story. Don't be disappointed if you don't get into the honors program, It leaves you more oportunities for classes. Enjoy it is the one thing I can say above everything. Enjoy everything no matter where you go.

Andrew

When looking for a college, pick the one that makes you feel most at home. dont worry so much about the money becuase there will always be a way. to do best in college you have to enjoy the place your at or else you wont have the motavation to well when times get hard

Andrew

College is a wonderful time in a high school graduate's life. It is a time of self-discovery and enlightenment. It is a time of learning and challenges. It is a time when young people from all walks of life come together, to this university, for the enrichment of eduation. The opportunities available to students is staggereing, but you have to know what to specifically look for in a university. Some important things that future students and thier parents should look for in a university are the number of students, average classroom size, local businesses, and recreational amenities provided by the university. It is very difficult to put a price on education because it is with you for your whole life, and no one can take it away from you.

Mallory

I think that everyone should go and visit several different schools, with their parents, and with friends. I think that you should know what the campus atmosphere is like and what the social aspects of the college are like. Once you get to college I think that you should get involved in as many things as you can. I have seen too many people not get involved and hate school. Getting involved not only provides a way for you to meet other students but also is great for you resume. I think that parents should let their kids be free when they go to college and not bug them all the time. I have been very fortunate to have parents that call me when they need something but then let me do all the other calling, that way I feel that I am independent but still have my parents to go to for advice if I need them.

Kimberly

I would advise students and parents to start looking at colleges early, and to visit a lot of different campuses. It is important to know what a campus enviornment is like, and what the people are like before you decided to go there. The only school I applied to is the one I got in to, and now attend; I love it. But I would have never been able to be so sure about my decision if i didn't go visit the school first! There are a lot of different options for school in regards to price range, enducational value, student population, and many other variables. Just because you can't seem to find a school that has everything you want doesn't mean there isn't one out there; be persistant. Although reputation is imporant, you should never choose a school just based on that. It is more important that you are going to be happy, enjoy your education, and be able to make lasting relationships with friends. When you finally find the school that is right for you, you will know. Best of luck in your search!

Hannah

i think that students needs to visit atleast five campuses and also apply to several schools. they should apply to both big school and small schools, schools in cities and schools in rural settings. they also need to look in financial aid and scholarships so that money does not become an issue of where they can and cannot attend college. i apply to a big out of state college as my first choice but i could not go because of money and sometimes i regret not doing everything i could have to make that happen. also when the student gets acceptance letters back they need to think over the options maybe revisit and make a choice!

Calvin

For parents, I would encourage you to try and schedule as many college visits as you can for your child so they can really see different styles and personalities of college campuses. From big campuses to small ones and everything in between, because only your child knows what they want in a college career, and when they visit the right campus, they will know it. That's what happened with me at Georgia Southern, on my first visit I knew that I would be spending the next 4 years of my life here. For students, once you select the right college for you, get involved immediatley. Every campus has hundreds of ways to get involved and that is the best way to meet people, and you need to meet people because your not in high school anymore where you see the same people all day every day. Most colleges have a club for EVERY hobby that you can imagine, so try clubs and student organizations. Also I would recomend going Greek, it is a great way to meet people that you'll be friends with for the rest of your life. Good luck in selecting the right college for you!

Nikias

Research, Research, Research is a key factor in finding the right school. Look at the schools webpage go visit the campus for more than one day. Adventure and explore new ideas, people, and places dont be affriad to express your own personal opinion.

Sarah

Visit every place that you are considering. While on that campus, talk to the students. Do not take all the advice and information from the tour guides. These are students that are either paid or receiving extra credit... they want you to think the excperience is great. Do what makes you happy. Do NOT follow boyfriends or best friends to the college of their choice; if your relationship can't last long distance then its not worth traveling for! SAVE YOUR GRADUATION MONEY! Do not blow it the first week in school; you will be sad as a poor junior. MAKE NEW FRIENDS! You can't expect people to put themselves out there if you don't. Ask older students what they like about their college. Really know what you are looking for and know who you are.

Emily

I would tell them really look at the schools, go and visit get a feel for the school. You can look at all the pictures you want but you'll never know if you'll like being there untill you go there.

Tia

I would advise parents to not force incoming students to pick a school based on affordability. I know it is easy to have few options when considering costs, especially in the economy now. However, students really need to find a school that closely represents America. By that, find a school that encourages the "melting-pot" effect. I believe it truly has a positive impact on students when they attend a diverse campus. When faculty, staff and students represent diversity, the experience will be worthwhile. I would also advise students to take advantage of what the campus and community has to offer. There are schools that have plenty events held on and off campus, and students just don't take advantage of all the opportunities. Lastly, students need to participate in an internship. When you have an internship under your belt, employers take you more serious and realize you really care about your future. Grades alone will not teach anyone how to do a job. Also, when you surround yourself with positive and motivated students, it is very hard to slack off and become a another drop-out. Stay focused, and put your mind to it!

William

Make sure you provide your kids with lots of opportunites. Go vist lots of colleges and make sure they find the right fit! It does really affect the outcome of their college experiance.

Danielle

Make sure you are aware of the success rate of first year students at the school. Ask around to other parents and students to see how they personally feel about the school rather than the paid employees of the college or university. Be well aware of the surroundings of the campus and think of how they will accomodate the lifestyle you are used to. Also, if living on campus in the dorms or in an off-campus apartment, look at ammenities, prices, and locality to the campus. Many schools have rules about parking passes, and parking is not always cheap but can be convenient as far as timing goes. The most important things are to make sure paperwork is completed EARLY, in case of complications, and to stay focused on graduating. Try not to pack too much into your first semester, socializing is important, controlled doses. The feeling of freedom may be nice to a student, but sleeping in and staying up late might become a habit if you are not careful. All in all, remember to relax and enjoy your major, there are always opportunities for changes if you find a better fit for you.

Natalie

pick a place where you know you can focus not party

Sallenya

Parents should allow their child to make personal decisions on where to attend college. Everything the parent does from birth to high school graduation should have prepared their child for college. Send your child to a place where they can feel comfortable and not just a number. Sit down to compare and contrast top universities because in my case GSU has some of the same fellowships, accreditations, grants and recognized programs that may rival other well known schools. During their child's sophomore year visit schools on their list during open house, homecoming week, or other major events because it gives the student a better feel for the day to day happenings of an institution. Definitely look at the financial situation of the future because we now live in unstable times where financial panic and economic fear are ever present in our minds. Always consider what could happen tomorrow, could your child still attend school if a scholarship/ financial aid was lost? Lastly, my biggest piece of advice is to pay your money at an institution that suits you: success should not be measure by the name of your school but rather the name you make for yourself.

Jehmia

Make sure the school that you choose is right for you. Don't let anyone influence your decision. It is extremely important for your success if you attend the right school. And dont forget that the most important things to do is be yourself, get involved, and STUDY!

Quinton

Just make sure that you go to a college that you would like to. Not just because someone else wants you to attend it. Also know what you're looking for in a college.