Harding University Top Questions

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

Chase

The first thing that I would tell myself is to not be so cocky. Before I came to college I had a problem with believing that I was better than everyone else. It took me a while to come down to earth and realize that with that kind of attitude it makes me less likely to find friends. The other thing that I would have told myself was to get to know my teachers on a more personal level. Doing this might have put me on better standings with all the teachers instead of being another face in the crowd.

Aislyn

College will be the best four years of your life. Pick the school that will help you be exactly who you are and will help you become exactly who you want to be. College is not one big party and do not let any one tell you otherwise. Working hard is important but balancing that with fun times with friends is just as important. You will never forget these years and you will make life long friends, do not be scared to get involved! Your college experience is what YOU make it. Focus but have fun, you will never get these years back.

Kelsie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there are several things I would like to say. First of all, I would tell myself to focus on the people in my life that mean the most to me and make sure they know why they are so important to me because once you leave for college the dynamics of all your relationships change in some way. I would also tell myself to enjoy my mom's cooking and eat as much of it as possible because cafeteria food will make you realize how wonderful homecooking is! I would also encourage myself as I entered college to be confident in the person I am and not care about how I appear to others because when you find the people who love you for who you really are, including your quirks, you will have found lifelong friends and that's more important than popularity. Plus what makes people popular in high school is different from college. Finally, I would remind myself to have a blast because college is so very fun but not to take the work too lightly because it is a challenge.

Graham

When making your college decision, do not base it off of what the college itself presents you with. Dig deeper on your own and research the institution thoroughly from academics to social activities. Visit the school but dont just look at what admissions shows you. Take a self-guided tour and look around for yourself to see if it is a place that you could picture yourself living for the next four to five years. Once you are on campus as a student do not solely devote your time to academics or sports or your social life. Diversify yourself so you can build your person as a whole. Be open to new ideas and learn as much as you can not only in the classroom, but everywhere you go. This is a time when there are some major choices to be made, but just take a deep breath and don't get stressed. These are the best years of your life!

Byron

I would tell parents and students to find a college that they are comfortable attending. They should visit the university and become familiar with the policies and the staff. They should make sure that the college has the major that they are planning to go into and try to pick a major as soon as possible as to not waste time or money. It is also very important once you get to college to branch out and meet new people. The more friends you have and people you know the more comfortable you will be. Also, take your classes very seriously and never put them at the end of your to do list. Hanging out and socializing should come second to your school work, because school is your job while you are there. My final advice is to relax and try not to get too stressed out, do not study all the time or you will go crazy.

Kimberley

College is a time to explore interests and make or break your dreams. I grew up hearing "you can be whatever you want to be," but starting college was the first time that I was asked to decide. After 18 years of dreaming, you are given 4 years to realize your limitations and work hard to overcome them. When it comes to picking a college, choose somewhere that you feel comfortable. Visit campus during the school year, and sit in a few classes to see how professors and students interact, and what class dynamics are like. It's a good way to test the water and see if you can picture yourself attending. You will have extreme ups and downs during your college career, but lonliness can really ruin the experience for you or make you decide to transfer. Look at the students around you and how they interact. Strong friendships are the foundation of a good college experience, and you will want people to share the joys and pains of college life with. Once you pick a school, get involved in the beginning of the year. Everyone is looking to make friends, so take advantage and enjoy!

Kailey

The deepest joy in life is discovering your personal gifts and finding ways to use them to better the world around you. Your college experience should be an effective union of those two goals, sending you forth with excited anticipation to make your contribution to this beautiful life. Being in an environment that teaches you how to learn and encourages you to push yourself further, prepares you for a lifetime of purposeful thought and action. I would suggest that my college, Harding University, is worthy of your inspection as you try to find the best place to prepare for your career. It is here that I have found a "home" where I can feel free to choose how I want to live, without negative pressures surrounding me. I feel safe and protected, cared for and valued. I hope to be able to continue attending this university for all four years. A scholarship would be very helpful!

Mark

Go for it.

Taylor

Look at all your options and do not only look at one type of school (i.e.: private, religious, public, small, large...Look at everything). Also, I recomend that the student walk around alone for a while to really get an idea of how they feel away from mom and dad's opinions. Pick a school that has a wide variety of people, because you will not leave college the same way you went in. I have changed in many ways in just the first year and I am now finding it harder to make different kinds of friends because I attended a small religious university. Also, go to a school you know you won't like, it will give you an idea of what you REALLY don't like, but also an idea of what you can tollerate. I suggest that you visit at least 6 schools and do it early!!! Don't wait till you are a senior, start as a junior, so you have plenty of time to reflect on what you have seen.

Bethany

Find a college that employs people that are helpful and accessible. If you have to force your way into the college and can hardly bear sitting through a class, it is probably not the best place to spend the next few years of your life. College will be a challenge, but it should be academically challenging and not just a pain to endure. The point is to learn, not suffer through class periods and financial aid battles. While you are in college take advantage of the resources you have, the teachers and classes that you have, but do not forget to enjoy your surroundings. Don?t talk on your cellphone as you walk to class-- meet a fellow student. Look at the landscape. Don?t rush through the experience.

Nicole

To the students: Get involved - join a club, play in the band, become part of the newspaper, etc. Meet as many people as you can, professors included. Eat lunch in a populated area, whether it is the cafe or the student center, even if you're alone - someone may come and sit next to you. Try not to get involved with a boyfriend/girlfriend until you are settled into your courses and coursework - if you are with someone when you go into college, tell them that space is needed until you have acclimated. Stay in touch with your family. To the parents: Stay in contact with your child - phone, email, letters, care packages. Help them move into their room, even if you're stuck doing the cleaning and not the setting up. Tour the campus with your child - it means a lot when a parent knows where the student is going to school, even if it's not shown. Most of all: give your child space. They're on their own now (especially if they're in a dorm). They can miss you, but don't cater to their every whim and need from afar.

Caleb

To the HS graduate and parents. When selecting a college to attend, you, the prospective student, must keep three things in mind: can this campus satisfy my social needs, will I be able to easily choose another major should I decide to, and will I be able to easily find a job in my chosen field with a degree from this school once I am graduated? If a university can answer these three questions in the affirmative, they are a school to look at more closely. And while money is always on the lips of every parent, it should not be what makes the final decision for the student. A quality education and good experiences at college far outweigh material costs, even in economical times as dire as these. To the college student. Do not stay hidden away in your room with a textbook always open. Your campus is full of wonderful places and things to do, so go participate! College is not just a place to learn academically, it is where you learn more about life as well. Go out with friends, join social clubs, and enjoy yourself! Live your life to the fullest. Your college friend, Caleb

Mike

Go to a college that has the major that you want and the best progams for you to be successful after you graduate. Everything else will fall into place after you get there.

Naomi

Atmosphere is crucial when picking a college. So much time, money, and energy are invested in the college years, it?s important that the atmosphere is a good match for you. Every college has its own personality. Don?t just take the word of the pamphlet or the tour guide, but visit the campus and engage students you meet in conversation rather than interrogating them. Current students can give you great insights to the college?s atmosphere. Realize that every college is going to have some aspect that is less than ideal. Consider what you are really passionate about and ask whether the prospective college or surrounding community offers programs or opportunities that feed your passion. Atmosphere should certainly not be the only criteria for choosing a college, but it can really enrich or, if the atmosphere is not compatible, really impair your college experience.

pamela

Harding university is great

Ashley

As a young adult, my advice to parents would be to find the college that best fits their child's personality. If a student is going to attend the University for 4 more years, it is important for them to feel comfortable in the environment that they are in. It's also good to find a school that has a strong department in the major that their child wants to pursue. It's not always easy for your child to know exactly what they want to do with their life, but it's good to have an idea of what college fits that particular major. I believe that college is a place that the student can grow and become more independent. A student needs to be in a well rounded University that has great opportunities and strong core values when it comes to rules and regulations. College is more than just studying all the time. It is a decision that can ultimately effect your child's life forever. The strong education your child gets, the people they spend time with, and the opportunities they have to do good things are an important part of the college experience.

Amber

apply

Anna

First, I think you should be aware of what the school stands for and what kind of environment you are getting into, because that will make or break your overall enjoyment of the college experience. Also, visiting the school and talking to professors in the department you are considering is extremely valuable in the decision making process. Second, taking initiative once you get the school to try and get involved. Even if the school has great orientation activities, it is still the responsiblity of the student to jump in and get to know people and know what is going on. Most schools will do their best to help the process of adjusting as a new student, but there is still some responsiblity on the students shoulders to put themselves out there. This will help you get connected and build that foundation to grow off of in your college years and beyond. Last, just enjoy the entire experience. Everything from looking into schools, to choosing a school, to picking a major. Enjoy every step of the way, because the less stress you put yourself through the more you be happy about the choice you made.

Suzanne

Find the college with the program and resources you need to succeed in life. Also, do everything you can; be involved-especially freshman year. Don't go to college until your ready, otherwise, your attitude, or lack of money in the long run might make things worse for you. Christian campus life is really helpful in allowing students to focus on their work, but still have clean fun. And honestly, it's more helpful for kids to get the kids out of the house if they go to a school far away. The independence is good, and shows them what they really can do on their own as an adult.

Daniel

Speak to lots of people who are at different stages of the college process, applying, enrolled, and graduated. Ask them what they wish they'd known prior to going to school, and ask them what they'd like to do differently if they were to go through the process again. Ask them what worked well for them, what didn't work well, and how they found the school that was right for them.

Taylor

Visit the schools and find juniors and seniors to ask about what they think.

Megan

When trying to find the right school I highly suggest visiting the campus! Visiting Harding and being able to see the campus and people played a huge part in deciding to attend there. A school can look nice on paper, but until you are there you dont really have a feel for the type of atmosphere you will be a part of. Another word of advice; start saving for college now! College is expensive, and the more you can save now, and the more opportunites for scholarships and grants you can obtain, the better. Making the most of your college experience has everything to do with attitude! Doing well in classes is great, but dont be afraid to get involved with other things. I have met some of my best friends through extra-curricular activities. Also, keep an open mind and a possitive attitude about your school. There will always be things you wish were different, but dont let those things stop you from enjoying the great things you DO have at that school. Keeping an open mind and enjoying what I had kept me from transfering my 2nd year. Im very glad I didnt :-)

Heather

Visit the college and talk with the professors and students. Look at lots of different colleges and apply to as many.

Elliott

I feel it is important to visit a campus and gain access to more than what the orientation programs and visiting programs the colleges and universities offer. Visit with students outside those that have volunteered their time to help new students or attract students interested in attending a college. Those students that are attending and living the life on that campus without the pressure or want of attracting new students will give the most reliable answers to your questions. Just walk the campuses and ask those you pass on the sidewalk questions about their experiences at the college and with teachers there. I feel it is also important to visit at least three colleges you are interested in attending. Each college should be a different distance from your home. Try staying over a weekend to take in the off campus activity during "down time" to see what your life and distractions may be while attending college in that town or area. A well rounded college experience includes classes, on campus activities, off campus activities and the social interaction of the town or city you live in!

Paul

It is important to find a college that put much emphasis on academic achievements, and moral and ethical growth for a student to be a responsible individual not only to himself, but also to the community, country and to those with whom he does not share any values with them. Having found that great school of choice, it is essential to be open to other people's differences, while letting your opinions known suitably. During the process of learning, do not feel as if learning is a burden but as an enjoyment and self improvement. Another point is that having funs and friend is an essential part of growing up. It is very important to be a responsible student as far as getting good grades, keeping yourself healthy, taking care of financial requirements, keeping your enviroment clean, and saving your school with honor. When saving one's school honorably, one need to obey school rules and regulations, as well as showing good image of one's school to others.

Danielle

n/a

lauren

I would have to say to go to the college that you feel most at home at. dont worry about money or the distance away from home, becasue you can always find family that will last a life time if you pick the right college to go to.

Beth

i think that students should choose the school that they feel like God is leading them to go to.

Amanda

The biggest piece of advice I could give parents and prospective students is to take your time. Parents, don't overwhelm your child by making them have a decision right away with were they want to spend the next four years of their life. Believe me, they know it's a big deal, and they know that is will change their life depending on where they go. Prospective students, if you really have no idea what you want to do- talk candidly with your parents and decide whether it would be more beneficial for you to take a year off. Taking a year off does not make you inferior. In fact, in many ways it may be the more intelligent thing to do. In taking a year off you can get a job and start saving up for college. In that time frame you would also be able to think clearly and be honest with yourself about what you really want in a college without the stresses of your senior year of high school distracting you. Pressure is one thing the recipe for a successful college plan does not need.

Lyn

When looking for the right place to attend college, students and parents should look for an environment that a student can grow in. A student's college career is not only about obtaining educational knowledge, but also wisdom about life.

Molly

Visit as many schools as you can!

Kevin

Just go at it full speed.

Rachel

My advice to high school students when choosing a college is to go with your gut. If you think a college is right for you academically, but you feel a stronger pull towards a different college, pick the one with the pull. You won't do well academically unless you enjoy the environment in which you study. And, in order to make the most of college, you must give it 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of yourself. You will have the opportunity to do basically whatever extracurricular activity you want. Always wanted to be in a play? Do it. You want to be an athlete? Check out the student athletic center. Choose your activities with wise discernment, and you will be setting yourself up with good habits that will last a lifetime. Combine that with an equal amount of effort in academics, and you will be successful.

smee

reaserch

Marcus

The advice I would give parent/prospective students would be to not doubt yourself. I think that when you have found the place that the student is supposed to be - they will know. In order to get the most out of your experience simply take advantage of every opportunity you are given to have fun while learning with your peers. The easiest thing to do is to hole up in your room and study all the time, but if you get out of your comfort zone you will find yourself forming lasting relationships.

julie

The advice that I would give parents and students would be to let the student ultimately decide. When students feel they have made the choice to pick their school for education success, less rebellion and more motivation is present. Parents and students should not be ashamed to apply for financial aid. Everyone deserves an education, and you want to look for a school that believes exactly that. Your education is more important than paper currency. Your social status should not prevent you from receiving a quality education to achieve a future with success and prosperity. I would also advise students to get involved and put yourself out there for new experiences. You learn the most when you challenge your comfort zone and try new things.

Jessi

Really evaluate what you hope to get out of your college experience. Consider your priorities and go from there. If you are wanting and intesely focused academic environment, look for that. If you are looking for socialization and fun and a dash of academia thrown in, you can find that too. Know thyself.

Greg

Choose somehwere that makes you feel comfortable, give an out of state school a try and if you don't like it you can always transfer, I always say ou need to tyr at least. Make sure you make friends are aren't too worried about classes.

Shannon

My advice would be to ask questions and research the colleges you are interested in. Look at all of your options and narrow it down to the schools that fulfill your needs. Visiting those schools will give you a better perspective of if you can see yourself there. Choose a school for yourself, not because your best friend or sibling attends that school. Pursue a college because it is the right fit for you. The college you choose will be your home for the next phase in your life, choose the school that will make the best out of your time spent there.

Farron

Go visit all around. Even if you aren't interested in a school you should still go if you get a chance. Apply everywhere that interests you. Remember that you can always transfer if the school you chose is not the right fit. Once you get there do not be afraid to go out and meet everyone you can. Be involved. You are only in college once, and you cannot take it for granted.

Kinsey

It is simple. College is what you make it. Put yourself out there to meet lots of people by getting involved with things on campus. Also, although studing is necessary to succeed, make sure to find a healthy balance for socializing as well. You don't ever get this time of your life back so make the most of it! Finally, believe in yourself and be what you want to be.

Ruth

Make sure the college has the major you want, first of all. Then you have to make sure you like the size of the school. Both of these are important in making the right decision of where you plan on spending a great deal of money AND time. Make the most of your college experience by getting involved on campus. Don't stay in your room all afternoon on your computer, get out and make friends! It might be hard at first but its worth it. Also, look for oportunities to serve the community and it will round out your college experience nicely :) Fraternaties/Sororities/Clubs, yes they can be fun, but you are at school for a reason- and that is to study. You can't do everything, but you also cant study all day and all night, so make sure you balance your time. Time management is KEY!

Natalie

When looking for the right college, there are several things you need to look for. First of all, you of course want to choose a school that will give you a great education and the right tools to suceed in the business world. But that is not the only aspect you should consider. You also want to choose a school where the people there are the kind of people that will help you grow, help you get to know yourself, and support you when you need it. College is a first of all the place where you go to get your education for your future. But the friends you make along the way and the person you become are just as important in the long run. So, my advice is: choose a good school that will help you grow in knowledge, wisdom, and life. As they say, "The journey is as important as the destination."

Daniel

It's not all about the academics. Find a place where you can fit in and find a good group of friends. The better the people and the learning experiance the better your attitude toward academics and toward the college experiance.

Amber

Visit all the colleges you are interested. Pick one that has your major, but also pick one with amazing people. These will be your friends for the rest of your life!

Jenna

In searching for the right college, it takes a lot of time and a lot of prayer. The prayer starts at the beginning of the child's life by the parents. As the child grows in stature and knowledge, this is the time to plant the seed to even go to college. As the time approaches in high school, make a list of schools that are possibilities. Then make campus visits. This is the time to seek out the school's mission, goals and career opportunities. Once the choice is made. Step outside your box, your comfort zone. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes by. This is your time! Enjoy!

Adam

Visit any college or university that you might even remotely consider attending and take a guided tour of the campus and facilities. Learn about the availability of financial aid the school offers. Talk to friends or family who attend(ed) the school and see what they liked or disliked most about the school and take their statements into consideration to see if you think you would feel similarly or differently. Look into the school's extracurricular activites to see if anything interestes you. Similarly, explore the city or town the school is in to see if there are interesting things to do for fun. It sounds obvious, but if you already know what you want to major in, make sure the school offers all the classes needed for the degree.

Ashton

Make sure that you visit the school first you never know how much you will realize you really like the school until you get there and see the school. It is an amazing process to go through but make sure you pray about because God will always show you where He knows you need to be and hopefully you will learn why.

Zachary

Go and visit the college while the students are in session and when it is not a planned showing weekend. take some time to talk to other students, and professors, and don't be afraid to ask why things are done the way the are.

Zach

Parents: keep your alternatives open. Don't submit your children to one school just because it sounds amazing because you went there or you know someone that went there. My dad went to my school, and I am glad I chose it, but at the same time, I think I would have been happier at a different school for a variety of reasons. Mainly because the social atmosphere. I feel that I am a typically different person than more than half the population at this school, and because of that, its hard to find people that share my beliefs and genuinely understand me. Students: going to college can be an exciting thing, and I believe I made my choice a little too hastily because I was just ready to get out of the house and be on my own. Don't make that mistake! Take some time to really get to know the school you are choosing, because its the most memorable four years of your life, that you can never get back! Make the most of it and be SURE you make the right decision before you sign the dotted line.