Georgia State University Top Questions

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

Kevin

For perspective students, I would advise them to do research all the colleges that they are interested in such as campus visits, asking students who actually attend the school about the school and read about what the school has to offer. Make sure you keep your parents up to date with not only your school search, but your goals as well. Once you get into the school of your choice, keep in mind that academics are your foremost priority and everything else is not nearly as important. Finally, enjoy the college experience!

Amanda

Finding the right college is about knowing what you want out of your education. I chose Georgia State because I wanted to have a business degree from a strong business university in order to help me land a better job. You need to decide whether you prefer a small or large university because that will help determine how easy it will be to socialize, get involved in campus activities, get to know your teachers, etc. In order to make the most of your college experience, you need to be open-minded. College is very different from high school in that you have complete control over everything from your friends and where you live, to what classes you take. Just be sure you're open to any and all possibilities and don't forget to study!

Quevias

If you want diversity I wouldn't select Georgia University.

Zachary

First Check out out the college of your selection before you attend.

Kenya

Parents should be involved in the college application and campus visiting process to provide support and ask questions that the student may not think to ask. The most important part in the college selection process it making sure the school of interest is the right match for the student. The first step in determining whether or not a school is the best choice for the student is finding a school that has the best program for his or her career goals. If the student is unsure of their major at the time of applying, it is a good idea to check the school website and look at the programs they offer to find out if they offer degrees of interest. Once the academic evaluation of the school checks out, a campus tour is absolutely nessessary. How the student feels while visiting the campus is usually how he or she will feel during thier time at the school. Other important factors include campus and class size, commute time, and whether or not the school provides activites of interest. Parents should provide support, but also encourage the student to make their own choices. Independence is what makes the college experience memorable.

Dia

When you are choosing a college, the number one thing you need to do is make sure that the school has the major of your choice. It would not be a happy day if you picked a school, took classes there and then realized they didnt have your major. Another thing you should look for when choosing a school is the size, you need to decide what type of class size you like, the way to do that is to look at the teacher student ratio. Then you need to think about the location of the school, in relation to home, and also in relation to where you live, if you live off campus. Getting home to the family is something to think about. Most of all, before you start going into a school, make sure you know what you are getting into, do your research.

Daniel

For Parents I would advise giving your child advice about whether or not they would enjoy going to a large school. I would also suggestion advising your children to apply to more schools than they think necessary, and to schools they might not necessarily get into because you never know. Tell your child to try and have an open mind about other classmates. For children I would advise going to class as much as possible, and going to class with a mindset ready to pay attention and learn. You are paying good money to live at this school and attend the class, It's better to use your money wisely by paying attention while your in class. I would also suggestion focusing more on learning the concepts and materials than necessarily getting an A in the class. Most of the time when you learn the material the good grades come with it. If your not there to learn then whats the point?

Brittany

I would tell the students that the key in finding the right college is making sure the student to teacher ratio is something that's comfortable to you. Also if the school has a good department of whatever major you decided to take up once in college. In addition when in college money is tight so if a school offers you a scholarship or grant than you should seriously consider that school because that money can help pay for books or buy school supplies. Another piece of advice would be that the idea of going to an Out-of-State school would be nice but it is cheaper going to an school in your state unless offered an scholarship. When making the most of the college experience its always good to network within your school by joining clubs, attending study groups, go to school events, etc. Other than geting an education networking is important in college because alot of doors can open up for you especially when going to the corporate world because it is based on not only what you know but who you know as well.

shirley

i would prefer students not to work while they are in school and parents to back them up while they are in school.

Jeremy

Its the best of both worlds. You got the city setting and the campus is in the process of getting more traditional. It is very diverse and can meet people of different races. There are alot of campus activities everyday. There is a place for everyone. You will fit right in.

Michelle

Check out the career services and ask them which companies recruit from that school. What good is a degree if you can't get a job? Therefore this is really an important factor. Second, I would talk to students on campus and ask for their opinions. See if you can find students who are in your same major. One department can be a different world than the next. For example, the psychology department at my school seems friendly and supportive whereas the accounting department is cold. Accounting at GSU is a teach yourself proposition. You can't even get tutoring help unless you have already failed the course before. Isn't that something you would like to know before you pay them all of your money?

Jeffrey

search by career fields avialable at the school and degrees offered and how well the progams do

Kijonna

Do your research. Some colleges may be good, but if it does not offer your program or if it offers your program but it is not with distinction, do not attend! Do not go to schools based on where your friends are going. Chances are, you won't talk to your highschool friends while in college. College is all about finding yourself. DO not just go with what the in crowd is doing. Please be an individual. When it comes to sororities and fraternities, do your research. Do not just join because you want to do what everyone else is doing. Also, when you go out with your friends, make sure you are very aware of your surroundings. Many incidents happen because students are not aware. And lastly parents, please allow your children to grow up. If you shelter them in college, they will not be able to truely grow and mature! Most importantly, have fun, but do your work! I partied all the time, yet I had a high GPA! It is possible!

Hajar

Start searching for schools a year or two before you graduate from high school. Really think about a good major considering your strengths and weaknesses. Research all the schools you attend. Try to see could you sit-in in a class to watch the Professor-student relationship. Learn the transfer policy before you transfer (if you transfer). Use test materials to prepare for the SAT test. Score high on the SAT test. Believe in yourself. Plan your career. Listen to others advice. Do what you feel is best for you. Stay in contact with your family and friends. Participate in community activities. Enjoy life when you can. Read your holy book. Get a job for extra money. Save your money. Bye a cell phone. Get access to a computer. Get ink for your computer and keep ink for your computer. Expect the unexpected. Expect good times and bad times. Expect a good grade. Expect to get the grade you didn't want. Expect to make and lose friends. Try to be sociable. Get ready to form study groups. Get ready to talk to your Professors. Expect to need some letters of recommendations. Pray to your lord. Imagine. Think. Smile. Cry.

Cortney

I feel that students and parents should pick a school based on the level of education and the envitoment. It has to be a place where you can get a good education but also a place that keeps you interested in the envitoment and school

betemekeds

College life is the best time of most people. In college , students learn not only to get degrees but also to get a life lessone. Therefore, finding the best college is very important for students because it is going to affect thier life in the future. The best way to find the right college is i think doing research on different schools. Research and specially look for what students say about the school.

melissa

do not let the money or cost for college stray you away from the school of your choice

Jonathan

Advice I'd give is always make sure your college choice is for the right reasons. You can always find friends, girlfriends, boyfriends, and good teammates wherever you go, but a good education isn't something to be sacrificed over "enjoying" college.

Brittany

Make sure you pick a college that fits you and don't try to choose a college you fit into. You will make friends wherever you decide to go so be picky and use caution. Do your research!

Brandi

Many sure your child makes the decision and not the parent because its their live not their parents

Jonathan

To find the right college, I highly recommend you determine what major you would like to pursue. Next, find the schools that specialze in that field and apply to all of them. This will give you options in case you do not get in to your first choice. Try to ask relatives if they know about the schools or if they know someone that went to one of them. This is a great way to learn about things the schools will not tell you. For getting the most out of college, walk in to class on the first day and sit next to someone. Ask them if you are in the right class and then ask them their major or tell them yours. This is a quick and easy way to make friends or at least get a study buddy. After class, introduce yourself to the professor and explain why you took their course. If you get to know them, they will generally try to help you more. This comes in handy if you need assistance with your grade.

Christopher

College will be highly difficult and stressful a lot of the time. Finding a college with a good social atmosphere is very important. However, do not let that be your only deciding factor. Most of the students you start your freshman classes with at college will not be there the next semester let alone year. So, while you should find a nice social scene, be mindful that the primary reason you are attending college is to learn and recieve a degree. Emerge yourself into extra activities in order to keep your sanity, but always attend your classes and read the textbooks. When choosing a college, think about what kind of atmosphere you would prefer to be in. If you prefer a more rural scene, go out to the college town where there is nothing other than the school and the fraternities. If you prefer a more diverse, city landscape, go to a college in the heart of a major city. Just think heavily upon which area you would be more comfortable in because it is extremely costly and difficult to change colleges once you start your academic career.

Alisa

Go on as many college visits possible and speak to as many students attending the college that is being visited as possible.

Secil

Allow yourself to explore a diversity of subjects and different environments. High school can give you a good understanding of what you are interested in but there is nothing more assuring than actually going out and exploring what really grabs your attention and makes you want to learn and to grow as a person. Just making good grades in particular subjects is not good enough, passion and curiosity are just as crucial!

Jasmine

When considering a college, it is most important that you pick a school that will do the most for you and whatever major you want to pursue. You should also consider what learning environment you think would be best for you to learn in; whether it is a traditional or city campus. Next you should consider the financial aspects of the colleges or universities under consideration. Check to see what kinds of financial programs or scholarships they have available for you. Last but definately not least, you should scout out the campus and locate certain social organizations or activities that you would like to participate in while you're in school. These activities can be on campus or off campus. Oh, remember to have fun!

Levi

Make sure you visit the school and try to find an opportunity to sit in on an average class. Spend a full day on campus if possible.

Mechul

Georgia State is a big school byt dont let that get to you or your student because the teachers act like the school is a small one with small classes and lots of activities

Elizabeth

Be honest with yourself about what you want to achieve. Do not try to fit with a certain school's definition of success, if that definition does not coincide with your interests. Try to find a school that shares your philosophy and will help you grow into the adult you want to be. Do not necessarily kill yourself trying to make absolutely perfect grades. Sometimes you learn more when you make a mistake. Taking a mistake in stride and learning from it is one of the most valuable skills a person can have. Get to know your professors, particularly if you are very interested in the subject matter. Be honest with your professors if you are concerned about anything. If they know you care about the class, they will usually try to help you as much as they can. Be involved, no matter what "involved" means to you. Involve yourself in academic acitivties...social activities...other organizations. The most important thing to remember about college is that it is about what you want to make of yourself. For the first time you are totally in charge of yourself, and if you are honest with yourself you will succeed.

Isabella

Begin your search early, and really research every option. Sometimes you can only go to the college that is the most convenient, even if it isnt your first choice. Where you go does not matter, it is how well you do with the material that is presented to you. Even if you do go to an excellent, expensive school, it doesnt mean anything if you do not excel. Its better to go to a "lesser" school and make A's than to go to Dartmouth and make B's and C's. Besides grades, it is also important to get involved in campus life immediately. Dont wait to join a club, do it now so that you can get a good social footing. Most importantly, just have a good time, relax, do well, and make it through the four years without getting kicked out.

William

Shop around, more expensive does not mean better.

Vicki

Visit the school that you are thinking about before you go there. Ask other students that go there if they like it and if they would reccommend it.

Rebecca

The best advice that I can give someone that is considering colleges is to make a list of things that you absolutely require in a college, those things that are fairly important, and those things that aren't very important. You should consider everything when making this list-- location, cost, small classrooms vs. large classrooms, area around campus, etc. The student/parent should research college lists (Available at www.princetonreview.com.) by keywords, such as "large campus" or "under $10,000 tuition" and those characteristics that were deemed important in the student's lists. Narrow down the colleges to those that have most, if not all, of those things that you decided you require in a college. Absolutely visit those colleges and consider your list when going on tours and meeting with current students. Ask many questions about anything that you might want to know. Eat at local restaurants, consider parking and traffic, observe the students' behaviors, look at the classrooms and buildings, look at the places on campus to hang out, and anything else that you may participate in in college. Be very critical when considering colleges, because it's the most important thing you'll ever do.

James

Plan early and well. Remember that the experience of getting away from home can make a student reevaluate his or her major choice. Applications should be completed early so that the high school student has the opportunity to make the right choice. One should look into the extracurricular activities associated with the school and not simply academic standing.

Ariel

Advice I would give to students about finding the right college is to think outside of the box. Don't apply to schools that you know you will get in to or schools that all your friends went to, be different, take risks. Don't be afraid to try new things. The same goes for making the most out of your college experience. You have the most fun when you meet new people and go new places - doing things you never thought you would do are the things that you remember the most.

Francisco

make sure the student likes the campus. It has been very hard for me to go to class because of how much I hate the Downtown Atlanta Area. Also make sure the school has different types of activities and it's located somewhere you can go and not get mugged or robbed. At GSU, security is the biggest concern.

Akia

The most important thing is to make sure the school has a program for the student's interest. Also, the class size sholud fit the comfort level of the student.

K.

Live on campus even if for just a semester! Use the library; its a great place to have quite study time, hold study groups and of course to do research. Make friends in each class, exchange contanct info. & form study groups for all 4 years of college! Find out where food is closest to each class room because you dont want to waste your money on $2.25 20oz cokes and $1 tiny bag of chips! Use the free counsoling services if you are stressed or anxious about anything because they can seariously help. Got a problem in class GO TALK TO YOUR PROFESSORS. They are human and they know that life happens and if you open up to them they can be compassionate. If you like a professor try to make friends with them and you will learn more than you expected and they are your most valuable educational tool! Get a job on campus, one that you can study while being on the clock because you will never have enough money! Always have a healthy snack from home in your bag! If you arnt over all happy with your classes switch majors sooner than later.

Josie

The best thing to do is research. Determine what things would make you happy to be at the school. Whether its size, price, location, or extra-curricular activities these various aspects will effect your college experience. For example if you decide to attend a school that has a tuition of $20,000 and you are unable to receive enough financial aid to cover all of your school expenses you will have to work while in school. Now if you didn't want to work while in school finding a school that is cheap but of QUALITY will be a better fit. So, once you do your research and determine what you want out of a college, you will be able to choose the right college to provide you with the most fulfilling experience.

Stephanie

Make sure you have an idea of who you are and what you would want to major in before you spend money on college. College is your future and it can ultimately decide the rest of your life for you. A degree is important to have, but the RIGHT degree is even more important! I have changed my major 3 times already and I am at my third college. I have spent way too much money switching around trying to decide on my future. I think the future is a scary thing! I don't want to get stuck doing something I won't be happy with for the rest of my life! I finally decided that Journalism/ Public Relations is what I would like to do and I have about another year in college. My advice to students finding the right college: know what you want to do and don't switch around so much because it will waste your time and money, but DO figure out what you will be happy with because it will be your future! It is always nice having patient parents who will help you through your mind-changing issues! Mine were with me!

Elizabeth

Make sure they choose a college for the right reasons (not because your friends are going there) and make sure that you are completely satisfied with the campus.

Erica

Research schols based on the normal criteria: can I get in?, location, costs, degree programs, etc. Once you have that list, visit the school for yourself; don't trust the website alone! Most importantly, talk to current students! They will tell you the truth because no one is paying them to say only good things.

Joshua

Spend time on campus and get a feel for the environment. Talk to people and find out their opinions. Don't just rely on what you read in a book or a school's website .

chris

Take your time

Tiffany

Allow the student to pick the school because this will have to be a decesion that they will have to live with. Support the student in the decesions that they make because choosing to go to school is a big step and it is not made for everyone. Just be really supportive you will be surpirised at the reactions of the children.

Marvin

Please go online and see how the college rates in the area in which you or your child want study. Also look to see how the school ranks in other areas such as social life, diveristy, scholarships, and many other social programs. Also you would want to find a school that is not only has a good educational ranking but campus, location and can you child or your child not only get a good education but also a great college expirence.

Iris

Gaining self awareness by being persistent in finding what gives you energy, a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, is essential in getting the most out of the years which will revolve around evolution and exploration of self. When you begin to self reflect, much will be revealed to you. Are you really what you protray to others, or are there parts of you that you hide from peers and family? When I was in highschool, I gave the appearance of a very reserved-shy-smart-has it together person who believed everything was in black and white. However, the "gray" , spontaneous-adrenaline seeking-prankster-tell it like it is part of me did not come out until college. I had to take a critical look at myself and decide whether I wanted highschool, my friends, and even my family, to forever define who I am. Do not, I repeat do not, let others expectations and recommendations about your college choice and later your life, take priority over you inner voice. Hear people out such as you parents (who yes, are actually smart), but also listen to your gut. Find an instituition which will challenge your mind and your identity.

Lloyd

The most I can say is don't wait until your final semester of senior year in high school. START EARLY. When your a sophomore look at your grades and see where you need to improve and work on it. also start taking a look at colleges and universities, maybe even try to visit some. STAY INFORMED. Talk to your teachers and look for info on schools. INVOLVE your parents in the process of picking a school and when senior year comes along it will be much easier to pick a school. In college the biggest thing I can tell you to do is KEEP AN OPEN MIND. You will meet all kinds of people and hear all kinds of opinions, so be willing to listen and learn and you will do great. Also try to be diverse dont be a fraid to set out and make new types of friends and aquiantances. Most important is STAY FOCUSED. Once you loss your footing it will be hard to get it back so dont be afraid to cancel "hanging out" in order to study . Dont be afraid to move forward and grow. Because you will.

Sheila

A student loan is worth a great college experience -- within reason. Picking a school schould first focus on the academic aspect, but afterward, consider the quality of life and the people at the school. The most prestigious school is not worth four unhappy years. Also, if the student is considering graduate school, the graduate school is more important than the undergraduate. It is okay for a student to attend a two-year school; four-year degrees are not for everyone. An associate's is better than a high school diploma, and it can be upgraded whenever to a bachelor's. Considering the student's needs and aspirations before money is most important.

Leslie

The best colleges out there are the ones that are best for you. College is one of the biggest longterm investments you and your family will ever make, so make sure you take full advantage of the opportunity. Choosing a college starts with thinking about your personality type and needs as student, what you want to study, and what type of college experience you wish to have. Although your major will not determine what your career, choose a major that complements your career interests. For many, college life means more freedom and idependance, but it comes with a lot of responsibility. As a young adult, you have be accoutable for yourself; you will be responsible for attending class on time, navigating around campus, and finding help when/where you need it. Adjusting to college life can be difficult, but getting involved in campus activities, organizations, and other services will create a strong network with students and faculty and help make the transition easier for you. Take the academic portion of college seriously, but do not let it stress you out. Just remember to have fun because your college experience is a lifetime experience.

Kesha

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!!! Don't just pick a school based off of where your friends are going because it won't necessarily be the best for you. Make sure the school you're choosing offers the major that you want to pursue (sounds like common sense, but it happens). Look at size, housing, whether it's an open campus or closed, things you can do on campus, what to do off campus. Try to plan a trip to the campus, talk to some of the students. Go to sites like ratemyprofessor.com and see what the professors are like. When start the semester, don't try to do everything that everybody else is doing. Make sure you allot yourself enough time in between socializing to study. Remember college isn't about partying, you have to make the grades too. The people that party all the time end up being in college for six or seven years before they get serious. Have fun, make memories, but make sure you study and pass your classes. Remember that everybody isn't in college for the same thing and people will try to get you to not focus on school.