Hampton University Top Questions

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

Jade

the advice i would give myself is to apply for even more colleges and scholarships , study harder and get help when needed

Jacob

Given the opportunity to advise myself as a high school senior, I would stress the importance of reading as many culinary books as possible. As a student at The Culinary Institute of America, the pace and amount of knowledge given to us is gargantuan. I find myself scrambling for time to do extracurricular reading that could potentially help me excel as a student. On a social standpoint, I would prepare for long breaks from old friends because your attendance needs to be flawless. One absence here pretty much drops a letter grade for any class. While rare, the breaks here are minimal but all in good practice for the industry we love. Overall, you pretty much are ready for school and you know this. While some situations might seem very hard, they will always pass and usually very quickly as well.

Renita

I would tell myself to really work on being focused and making sure I turn in all of my assignments. And also to work on having good study habits.

Vanita

As an incoming freshman college there are many things which you need to be prepared for such as being financially prepared, a heavier work load, and learning how to manage your time properly. As a senior in high school you don’t realize how easy you have things so it’s the perfect time to start looking for scholarships and working on the weekends and over the summer. Books are very expensive and you plus you’ll want to have a little pocket change for the weekends. Also people think that college will be the same as high school when it comes to school work: go to class, do your homework, and then you have your free time. This is completely wrong, and unless you can manage your time correctly and are extremely dedicated, your success in college cannot be guaranteed. Make sure that you set aside time to really study for your classes and do your homework with accuracy. If you do all these things your transition into college will be a breeze.

Shakerra

Attending Hampton University has allowed me to experience other cultures through my friends. It also has helped me to be more open to change as well as exposing me to knew ideas. I have also gained a new found confidence level. I have gained a sense of accomplishment. This is because I've had to work harder than ever to maintain my grades. I've been able to perfect my time management skills, and use these skills I've learned, along with others, to help others and volunteer. Attending college has also let me know that I can take care of myself and independent. One of the greatest aspects of college is building friendships that will last a lifetime. Within the year and a half I've been at Hampton, i've met people from all over the world who i have shared great memories with. The greatest benefit was the completion of a long term plan/goal. I have realized that there are a lot of things I can accomplish if I want to.

Akilah

I have met some lifelong friends. I also am getting a good education while doing so.

Spurgeion

Through registration alone, I've learned the need to complete everything early and to organize. When I began college I didn't have much help, so now I'm in a trial and error situation in which I've learned to prepare and complete everything that I could early.

Reena

My college experience has been one of the best experiences I have had thus far in my life. I really appreciate that fact that I have been able to attend school, because trhere are many people who are not blessed with the opportunity. I have made some really good friends that I know will be there for me throughout my life. I love that we are able to study together, go to social events together, and motivate each other. Many people may feel that they get lost in the mix at their schools, but I am grateful that I been able to find a couple of poeple, including professors within my major depatment, that I can rely on and get help from. Our school does a pretty good job of presenting it's students with opportunites regarding educational and career advancement. I really believe I am being prepared for life and that once I graduate from Hampton I will be ready to tackle my career goals. Though the cost is more than expensive, I know my education is priceless and I am glad I am receiving it at Hampton.

Rodely

I have learned many things since attending college. One of the main things I learned is how essential time management can be. By having this skill and discipline one is able to get much work done in a shorter amount of time. In addition, by having this in your life; it is likely that you will be less stressed while completing assignments. College has been very valuable for me to attend because it has helped me to grow as an individual. I became more responsible and focused on my tasks. Secondly, I learned amazing studying techniques, which helped me to earn better grades.

Chiara

At first I did not want to attend College of the Siskiyous, but I know that I will not be able to afford the things I want in life working at a minnum wage job. I have made some wonderful friends that hopefully will be in the rest of my life. Attending a college close to home has also prepared me for moving on to another school further away from my family. Attending College has made me a better person than I saw in my future.

Tyrone

So far while being in college I have grown alot, not physically but as a person. Being out on my own I have had to make numerous decisions on my own and learn to take care of myself. Even though I am still young I think that college has taught me a great deal about myself more than anything. It has been extremely valuable because it has opened my eyes to what I actually want in life.

Mariah

It has been valuable just by the fact that I am the first in my family to actually attend a university or college straight out of high school. And my experience here has first taught me how to be independent. It has also forced me put into practice time managment and proper study skills. So far it has been the best experience I have encountered in my life thus far. I am anticipating what the future at Hampton University has in store for me....

Caitlin

People say that education is useless and people will always question when they will use the information but, is it not better to know than to not? To live without knowledge is like living in absolute darkness because a person cannot go anywhere if they do not even know where they are. Since attending college it has come to attention that I use what is covered in my classes every day. Whether it be that my thoughts of others and my community have changed from my sociology class or that more is known to me about how people grow and how our minds work from my psychology class. Either way as one learns his or her ideas expand and limitations decrease. In order to survive, make yourself known, and to make a difference in this enormous Earth a person must learn. The saying knowledge is power is entirely true because the more one knows the more intelligent, creative, and confident they are. My confidence has increased with every day I attend college and I feel more comfortable with who I am. College has been a wonderful experience so far and I only hope it will get better with time.

Cynthia

I have gotten 3 things from my college experience: independence, appreciation of beauty, and self respect. Independence, every loan is in my name rather then my mothers; so when things go wrong for financial aid I am the one who must take care of it not my mother. I do not have to answer to my mother about my grades or what I am out doing. If i suceed or fail it is all on me. I believe Hampton is the most beautiful campus it is my home by the sea. I am able to appreciate the simplicity of nature now. Also, I am able to see all 4 seasons a luxury I did not have before. I respect myself more because I am a Hampton Woman who has high standards for myself. I must respect myself before a boy can or other women can. This school has been valuable because I have improved so much. I see myself as a better person now. I am doing so much better in school then I was before and this is from the family atmosphere of the University.

Anitha

Hampton University is dedicated to producing future world leaders. Not only does the university stress the importance of keeping grades to a competitive level , but also the importance of becoming a better person overall. This is where Hampton University differentiates itself from many other schools. Hampton University revolves around progression. Not only is our campus constantly going through changes and improvements, but we students are as well. We have a word we use to describe the Hampton experience; "Hamptonized." To become "Hamptonized" means to transform from the average incoming freshman that is usually considered to be indecisive, self-conscious, unorganized, self-absorbed and unexposed, to the average Hampton man or Hampton woman who is seen as driven, self-motivated, professional, and compassionate. What brings about such change? The Faculty as well as the students themselves; we are constantly reminded that we are accountable for a fellow “Hamptonian.” We actually call each other family! I’m only a freshman and I notice a dramatic change within myself. I am more outspoken, outgoing, and aware of the troubles within my community. My short experience here has made me realize that I can make a change, my future experience will reveal how.

Candace

Hampton University has opened me up to so many exciting and interesting experiences. The biggest thing that would support my liking for this university would have to be when President Obama did the commencement ceremony for the last graduating class. Just knowing that the first african american president of the united states was key note speaker in his first year of office was compelling.

Sheridan

I received an education for life from Hampton University.

Kevin

I have learned through Hampton is that "people will do what they want to do". This means that people in a position of power have the possibility to do just that. Whatever they want. The teachers have the possibility to pass or fail a teacher regardless if the students are doing poorly in the class. The financial aid office has the power to financially clear a student if they owe money for the semester. These are my experiences and they have helped prepare me for the "real world". Hampton's mascot is the Pirates. Pirates from old age were a force to be reckoned with. Hampton molds its students into a fierce individual through its test and trials. Hampton has been valuable to me because I no longer depend on my parents to get me out of a bind or unwanted situation. I now make more opportunities for myself through hard work and effort. Our motto "Good, better, best, never let it rest, until your good is better and your better is best. Everyday I strive to be the best that I can be.

Lisa

Raised by parents who neglected to go to college has provided me with something quite special: The appreciation of knowledge. Having realized their mistake, my parents have never allowed me to settle for less than my potential and aptitude to succeed. College, therefore, was never option. It was, and has always been my future. The Lost Boys of Sudan probably said it best, "Education is our Mother and our Father" ... "Our parents could be dead, but we see that education will speak on our behalf in the future." Unfortunately, I think most people view their education as finite. They fail to comprehend that we are always learning, and that schools and other institutions prepare us for lifelong learning. My parents poor decision has left my older brother and I with no other way to pay for college except by ourselves. While this has been an emotional, not to mention stressful endeavor for the two of us, it has taught us that, while expensive, academia is truly invaluable. Without altruistic people like you, my dreams of higher learning might very well have been out of reach. Now I can safely say that it is right within my grasp.

Brittany

My matriculation of college has been a life-changing encounter. I have come to the understanding that education is not about attaining quantitative amounts of information; however it is utilizing the information and demonstrating how it is applicable to daily live circumstances. Through adaptation and maturation, I now have grasped stronger analytical, theoretical and critical skills for research. It is this same skills of research that will assist me in the competency of my career. In addition, I've discovered that adversity can become a dilemma upon the attendance of college. However; it's the presence of a spiritual foundation, the existence of a social life and the reception of a quality education that seems to offset and alleviate the struggle that one may endure. Despite the odds, it is inevitable that college provides an experience that is both memorable and invaluable.

savanna

Everest college is very supportive. I'm also showing my kids ( Elijah and Anastasia) that they can do something with there life.

Alvina

When people say college is where you find out who you want to become and where you want to be, well that is very much true. Being at Hampton helped me establish who I am now. I knew who I was and what i wanted out of life but I had some confusions about certain things and being at Hampton just helped me clarify that. I can now stand proudly and speak elegantly when asked a question of what I would like to be or what my future plans are. Hampton has helped me set a road map for my life and future plans, where I want to be, who I am going to be and where I end up after graduation. Any school is valuable to attend because it is a chance to further your educational goals and seek a better life for yourself, family and future generations. It has been valuable to me because I now know who and what I am without any hestitation.

Charniqua

Out of my college experience I have learned to prepare myself better as a studnet. I have also learned that a college is a great expereince and I will one day be proud to be an alumni at my university. Through this experience I have learned to stay focus and to always do well. It has been valuable to attend Hampton University because I have became friends with people who have became influences on me and will continue to be great friends in my future. I looking forward to contining my education at Hampton, and I hope to find the funds to continue for the rest of my three years.

Lahana

Out of my college experience I have gotten more knowledge and more education in what I want to be. I want to go to medical school after I get my bachelor's degree to become a doctor. Being in college, I'm able to learn more about biology, chemistry, and anatomy to become a successful doctor. Every moment I'm in school, I love it. It's very valuable to attend because it necessary to achieve my dream becoming a doctor. Becoming a doctor will not only benefit myself, but others as well.

Alia

College has indeed enhanced my ability to learn and comprehend not only on an educational level, but also in the real world. I've been faced with situations that I thought I'd never experience, peer pressure being one of them. I've met other young people, some who share the same views and beliefs as me, and others who completely oppose everything I stand for. Furthermore, I've been pressured by friends at home who haven't been as successful as I am. Hampton University has given the opportunity to meet wonderful professors first hand. These teachers have dedicated their time and effort in making sure that students are well equip for the future. College has been valuable to attend because I've learned to be responsible and independent. I've also been able to really identify who I am as a person, and where I stand on certain political views. In addition, I've become much closer to my family, and can honestly say that I am a better person. Although religion is often looked down upon, it is only right for me to acknowledge the fact that I am much closer to God.

Maneesha

I have got many things out of my college experience. Although I do not wish to be far away from home at times (Philadelphia), I have gotten exposure, independence, maturity and peace of mind.

Linda

I have learned many things from attending Hampton University, both tangible and intangible. Acquaintances may come and go, but best friends are always by your side. Deadlines are called that for a reason: by the time you write that last line on the last exam of the semester, you feel as if you were dead?asleep. Exercise is a way of life. This is displayed by classmates running to class, running from class, climbing up the stairs when the elevator is broken, going down the stairs when there is a fire alarm, etc. The best exercise machine is the administration: they will run you around campus, make you climb up the walls, and pass the buck so many times you get whiplash. This is all because you asked where the bathroom was, of course. This is how college teaches you to be independent, through insanity. Neither race nor gender matters, everyone is equally irritating. Hampton University has been very valuable in imparting not only academics, but also life lessons that will stick with me for the rest of my life. Friends are forever, it is best to be timely, and caffeine is a necessity for 8 AM classes.

Christine

I haver gotten much out of my college experience. I have learned much about myself and what type of people that I am able to hang around with. I have learned to be own my own and not be dependent on my parents to help me with every little detail that I am face to deal with. It has been valuable to attend because I have been able to make new challenges in my life and grow as a person. I am continuing in my education and striving for my goal to obtain a degree. I am confident that I will value a lot more as the years progress and I have become comfortable in my setting and area.

Cassandra

I enjoyed the experience of knowing how to communicate with different people from different places, not only within the United States but throughout the world. I also like the fact that I have had the experience of being out on my own. Both experiences are key to knowing how to survive out in the world and that is what makes the college experience valuable.

Jasmine

What I have gooten out of my college experience is that people are really there to help you , you just got to be persistent in getting help. I think it makes you more prepared for the real word. It has been valuable to attend this school because it prepares us for the real world and makes us well-rounded people. For example, Hampton has academic help like tutoring, major seminars, and you can talk to the professors. Also, they have social events like Freshman Ball ad we have had mandatory events in Ogden hall where we have to dress professionally .

Alycia

From my college experience thus far I have learned that I am still learning. I came to college thinking that I was more then ready for the independence and I was very wrong. I have seen and made many mistakes in prioritizing and staying out of trouble. As my freshman year goes on I am learning that there will always be another party but there will never be another chance to take that 8am history test in the morning. So instead of going out I stay in and study the chapter over. I am learning that not everyone is a friend and not everyone is going to have your back. As an adult I have to look out for me and make sure that I dont get into any trouble to cause myself harm. As a female there are alot of risks for me but from my time in school I am learning how to lower my risks through smart choices.

Takhari

College has taught me so much about myself. I learn new things every single day. I am so much more independent and am coming into my own.

Sarah

Do not be swayed in what you believe. Do not fall into peer pressure because the friendships may not last. Do not try to please others but be true to yoursef at all times. Use your time wisely and do your work. Do not be scared to have fun!

Jasmine

If I was a senior again I would tell myself to study harder in class. I would make sure I become more involve with school activities. I would apply to more colleges earlier and study for the SAT. I would start to look for scholarships, grants, and loans earlier as well. Also, I would save my money for books and supplies for college. I would learn how to mange my money. I would visit more colleges, and ask more questions about the school. I would be more talkative in school, because in college it?s all about meeting new people and making new friends. The last thing I would make sure I tell myself before I go off to college is to make sure I apply to a college that?s closer to home because flying home is expensive. Plus, I miss my family so much!

Ashley

As a high school senior know what college you want to go to and get startedon your financial aid money as quickly as possible because that last thing you want to do is take out loans get all the free money you can. Finish strong your senior year and alwas be involved in your community.

Erika

"Erika, make a schedule. Erika, make a schedule. You can never go wrong if you have a plan for yourself." As a high school student, these words were etched into my brain and I must admit that I am glad that they were. If I could travel back in time, I would give myself that same advice. "Erika, make a plan. Erika, make a plan." As a freshman at Hampton University I have come to realize that having a written schedule is not just essential for success, it is crucial for success. Ultimately, failing to write things down can make or break a college student. College entails many obstacles. As much as we may hear about the parties and shows, we know that it is undoubtedly the books that will determine how our futures will be shaped. During my first semester at Hampton I was delighted to discover that I made the Deans List with a 3.5 gpa. I wrote EVERYTHING down. Creating a schedule helped me to be more organized. This is only my first semester and at the rate I'm traveling, I will be at a 4.0 in no time.

Takhaja

Apply for as many scholarships as possible! Paying for college is no joke and you do not want to be stressed out about funds throughout the year. Learn how to study now because you WILL NOT survive in college with poor study habbits. Make sure you apply to a variety of schools, some close to home, some far from home, some state colleges, and some private universities. When choosing you future school you want to have options. Start saving now for books! When you get to college it will be so easy to get distracted. Do not fall into those cracks! Make sure you balance out fun, work, and play. The rest of your senior year is about to fly right past you so enjoy it while you can. Lastly, prepare yourself to embarke upon one of the greatest experiences in your life!

Genay

The advice I would give myself is to read and try to soak up as much information as possible. In college , there are many skills that you are introduced to and the professors expect you to know. So while in highschool I need to read, do homework, take AP courses etc. any and everything that would help me academically.

Brianna

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would advise many important factors that could affect where I am now. I would advise that I closely look at each college that I would like to attend and consider the amount of majors offered. Attending a university that does not offer many of the major you are interested is not a great idea for success. I would also advise my self to apply for colleges and scholarships in advance so there will be less stress. On the topic of making a transition to college life, I would advise myself to expect that important things like registering for classes is completely your responsibility. Your parents are not gonna be there to make important desicions so you need to act more mature and wisely look at all your choices because they will impact you in later in the future.

Serena

If I could go back in time to my senior year, I would have told myself that I need to be way more focused and not let the mental aspects of being the leaders of the school corrupt my thoughts. To take advantage of more organizations outside of my school even though I was still active in and out of school. I would have chosen to become more efficient in my dedication for volleyball so I could be attending a school of another preference. Not waiting until the last year to realize my passion for the sports. Advice from me would be to still come with an optimistic mind about college, but at the same time keep your eyes open. Knowing that college is a competition, and to know that your colleagues do want your spot and are striving to become even higher than you. So to keep the eye out for those who may try in their own paths to break you in every aspect possible, but still be mindful of the life you are now living.

Karia

The advice that I would give myself would be to enjoy my senior year but to practice better study habits and prepare for tests better. My grades were very good and put I would tell myself to have more confidence in myself and in my grades. To not be afraid to try get better grades and to try new things. It was my senior year and I was playing it safe, instead of trying new things and reaching higher and better heights. Freshmen year in college, I tried new things and set a new goal for my grades. I realized that I could meet my goals and the new things that I tried were interesting and fun.

Odessa

My advice would be to go to the community college for two years and transfer to UCLA. I should not be so prideful and realize that there is nothing wrong with community colleges. Going to Hampton may mean going straight into a university but it is not worth it. Not going to Hampton would have saved thousands of dollars and I would be able to tranfer on time instead of being held back an extra year by the "Hampton Run Around." Be smart and see the bigger picture.

Rhoda

If i could go back to talk to myself as high school senior i would tell myself to think about the colleges i was applying to in the sense of thinking about tuition, financial cost and what i had to sacrifice to get to that school instead of just applying to schools just becasue i wanted to get away from home or i liked it. i would tell myself to think about what my family could afford and what school was going to benefit me as well as my as family so we didnt have to struggle in finding money so i can get to go the school of my choice. i would also tell myself not to rush but explore different opportunities being offered and what was going to work for me and my guardians.

Olivia

College is not as stressful as everyone makes it out to be. As long as students have good time management and are responsible they will realize that college is actually just like high school; only with less classes. Stressing about what colleges to apply to and getting into your first choice is not a big deal either, everything that students have achieved in high school is washed away once they begin classes in college. High school seniors need to make sure they fill out scholarship applications because getting money from other people is exremely helpful and then students can use their money for things they want like parties and traveling (possibly the best parts of college).

Jokita

If given the opportunity to go back and be the voice of advisement I so desperately needed as a high school senior I would tell myself to apply early for financial aid and to no give up on my dreams no matter what people around me might have to say. I would stop my ears and heart from receiving all the negativety and hurt put on me by the loss of my grandmother and my inability to dismiss the idea of college due to my family's financial struggle, so that I, myself would not have fallen behind in my classes. Also, I would encourage myself to do more community service events; not just do them because someone asked me to, but do them because I am actually helping someone else out. Further more I would tell myself to apply to all colleges that offered my desired field, rather than allow someone to dictate who will actually send me an acceptance letter or not. Lastly I would instruct myself to love who God has made me and to triumph through every hurdle thrown my way.

Zayuna

If I could go back in time to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life, I wouldn't change a thing. My first semester of college was a challenging semster emotionally however overcoming the challenges and still being able to have a great GPA made me excited to return for my second semester. I learned so much about myself and what I could actually handle that my parents were able to comment on my growth in maturity from the previous year. If I was to go back and say something to my high school senior self about college life, I might be altering all this personal progress that I have made. If college has taught me nothing else, it has taught me not to confuse growth with change; I have changed my surroundings from high school to college and have grown as a person in the process.

Alexis

I would tell myself that college is the same as high school except for there is alot more work. Just be prepared for pop quizzes and long essays. But your friends and classmates will help you get throught it becuase you are going through this new transition together. Make lots of friends and dont be afraid to ask for help or go to the proffesor's office hours. Always, Always, Always READ DIRECTIONS BEFORE YOU START AN ASSIGNMENT! Valuable information is always placed in the syllabus. Take advantage of it. Its given to you for a reason. I should have worked on mor escholarship applications because financial aid is very hard to come by especially going to a private school. The tuition is very expensive. But other than that, college is a blast. There are lots of parties and social events but make sure you are focused on your work.

Tiffany

if i could go back in time to give myself about the college life i would first give myself financial advice. I would tell my self to apply for more scholarships and grants to eliminate future financial problems. This would also expel many worries and allow me to focus more on studies. Next i would give advice on the academic aspect, and time management. I would tell myself to be more organized and set a study schedule and stick to it . I would make sure to enlighten myself of the importance of gaining knowlege and not just getting by. Then i would advise myself socially. Although it is of much importance to balance school and fun, yu cannot excude one or the other but, school should always come first over fun. Lastly, i could never forget to remind myself that i determine my own destiny, so make the right choices. Think throught all options in every situation to determine the possible affect on my future. Most of all the best way to demand respect from others is to respect myself.

Miyone

Regardless of the horror stories you may hear about college it is not bad at all. As long as you work to your full potential in high school and become independent in high school, you should not have any troubles in college. WHen you enter college you want to perform your best, but what is good to you may not be good to your professor. So while in college act as a chameleon, adjust to the likings of your professor while still being true to yourself. Lastly, get involved early, college is only what you make it.

Alisha

The transition from high school to college is bittersweet. Although you are excited to leave home and experience a new environment, leaving what is familiar is intimidating. College provides many opportunities for growth inside and outside of the classroom. Be open to new ideas, people, and classes. Whether or not you decide on a major before college, take as many classes as possible outside of your major. Classes in humanities, English, a foreign language, and others will help you widen your skill set, something potential employers and graduate schools love. College classes are a great way to explore new areas. College provides many resources you should utilize. Have you visited the career center or attended a guest lecture? It is also important to find a mentor within your field of interest. This individual can provide you great advice concerning summer internships, career planning, and more. An important aspect of college is finding the lesson in every experience. Professors and your friends at college want to see you succeed, so reach out to them if you need assistance. Don?t give up when you encounter a difficult test or class. Learn from your mistakes so you can perform better next time.