Indiana State University Top Questions

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

Kyliah

If I could go back to my senior year of high school right now, I would be preparing myself to study more for all of my exams. I would work on putting forth more effort in doing my homework and not waiting until the class before to start the assignment. Time management is a key factor in the college life and my senior year I could have worked more with my time management skills rather than waiting until college classes started to figure out how much time I need to devote to each class.

Kimari

One major advise I would give myself is to visit the college of my choice several times before actually deciding it is the one for me. I believe I would have received a better understanding of this university and what programs/extra-curricular activivties it offeres, if I would have visited more than just on the orientation day. I would also work on my time-management skills as well. At times, I feel I do not have no social life or quality time for my self because I get so overwhelmed and wrapped up in my academics. This can become very stressful at times, and cause work-overload. Other advise I would give myself is to know for sure what I am interested in and have a better understanding of my area of study. This prevents continuously changing of your major which I find many college students are prone to doing, including myself.

Rajnish

ONLY ONE ADVICE "WORK HARD BE THE BEST"

Danielle

If I could go back to high school, there is one thing I would defintely tell myself. After graduating with a degree in biology, and not finding a job I liked after 2 years, I am returning to school to get a degree in nursing, which I love. So, if I could go back and give myself advice it would be to sit down and think about what you love in life, what your goals are, and what you need to do to accomplish these goals.

Elissa

Hello, Elissa! I just want to make sure you study every evening when you get home from high school and try your best to achieve the most! I want you to complete high school with flying colors and continue your education by attending a college or university. Stay in SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) to help raise awareness in your classmates of the possibility of ruining his/her education and career goals. Please stay in National BETA Club (Academic Achievement Organization) and National Honor Society (Academic Achievement Organization). You are a very intelligent young woman. Always let that light shine and show the world what you can achieve in life! Never skip school and keep the Perfect Attendance award every semester! Keep volunteering at the local youth center for underprivileged children, assisting children with their homework and studies. You are an excellent role model and every one of those children look up to you for your achievements, advice, and encouragement. Always remember, I want nothing but the absolute best and hope you will stick to your excellent attendance and stellar grades.

Danielle

Don't give up, no matter the issues you feel you are going to be hit with you have to remember that college graduates have walked in your same shoes and had problems that were sometimes bigger than yours and you are a strong person so if they can do it just don't give up and don't give in to peer pressure as well. Remember that alot of people are counting on you and no you don't have to one-hundred percent think of them when it comes to just finishing that test, just think that letting them down is something that you wouldn't do. Don't give up.

Elisabeth

If I could go back to my senior year and talk to myself, knowing what I know now about college life, I would tell myself to put aside the peer pressure and apply myself to my studies. I would tell myself to look at colleges early and to take classes in high school that count towards college credit. I would tell myself to ask more questions regarding financial aid and what grants and scholarships I would be applicable for. I would tell myself to push harder to get into a good school and do the best I can in my classes so that I can stay applicable for grants and scholarships.

Tammy

Don't spend so much time doing everything. Take a break to spend time with the people you love. I spent so much time taking leadership positions, being editor of the school newspaper and yearbook, organizing and starting clubs, and not seeing my family for weeks at a time. My friends and family had to schedule time to spend with me at least two weeks ahead of time, even if it was just dinner at home. My fiance had to stay by my side and come to meetings with me so that he could spend time with me. Now that I am away from everyone, including the love of my life, I realize how much time I could have spent with them that I spent doing things for myself. I wish I would have gone home more often. Maybe I would not miss them so much if I had spent more time with them when I had the chance.

Jennifer

I would make sure to tell myself to wake up for class every morning, even if it was the eight o'clock class and I had been up all night. I would tell myself to get my parents to fill out the fafsa on time so paying for school would be easier. I would deffinately tell myself that no matter how much I didn't want to, I needed to read that Norman Mailer book for my history paper. Also, I would congratulate myself for taking all that time in high school to keep my grades up so I could get scholarships my first year and advise myself strongly to keep it up. Most of all, I would tell myself not to let another person come between me and my education. That it would mess up my GPA and I would struggle after that relationship fell apart to get the pieces back together. I would tell myself not to work so much, that one job was enough, to make time for school, papers, and homework.

Erica

I would tell myself to be organized. By this I mean have a agenda that has your schedule in it and this that you have to get done as a student or at home it keep you organized. I would have better time management it is very important as a student you have to know what time things are and get there on time. I would be more involved as a student in my high school so i would know whats its like to be involved in activites so i would get more involved as a college student. Also remember that as a athlete you will not have a life so if you dont want that you may want to rethink the college athletics. Also the people you know is important because in the end they may help you get a job. The most important thing of all is to study, study, study because your study habits in high school reflect the way you study when you get to college. College is nothing like high school you have to study and that means up to at least 2 hours a day. It just depends on the course.

Sarah

The college experience is all about budgeting. Time is one of the hardest things to budget especially when it seems as though you now have the freedom to do as you please. To succeed in college, you must choose your activites wisely so as not to become overwhelmed. Another thing that would have been great to know about is budgeting money. I did recieve a small scholarship; however, that still doesn't mean I have the freedom to spend as I please. It's so important to keep track and plan ahead financially, now more than ever because the certainty of finding of job is unknown and you will want something to fall back on. If you keep track of your time and finances, I can almost guarntee that you will be a successful student.

Morgan

If I were to travel back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to think hard about what makes you happy, because although Indiana State University has helped me to realize my true passion in life, and to help me figure out what I want to do with my career, it has taken more time than I would have liked. I would tell myself to think of all the things I love and then narrow them down to decide what a realistic career choice would be.

Anttonieo

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would educate myself on how important it is to start my college career off being focused on academic work. During my first year as a college student, I was caught up in the hype of being away at college, which allowed me to slip on my academic work. Just when things were starting to get the point where I didn't know if I was going to fail out of school or not, I pushed myself to be extremely focused on my goals at hand and take college seriously. With the help of many faculty and supportive friends, I was able to regroup and put forth a much better effort with school work and was able to graduate in four years with a respectable GPA. Being that I don't have the ability to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I make it a priority of mine to speak with as many high school students as possible who are thinking about attending a college or university and encourage them not to make same mistakes i did.

Nicholas

You should get out of the habit of procrastinating and putting more time into writing papers.

megan

First would tell myself to plan on studying a lot and to study hard. Also, I would prepare myself by saying that college isn?t going to be all fun and games, however, this experience will forever change my life. I would state that only through difficulties and challenges will I develop into a successful and responsible woman. Next I would explain how much this education is going to cost and encourage myself to apply for many scholarships. I would then give myself a rude awakening by saying that growing up to be an adult means paying for your own college and working countless hours all year round. It also means that my priorities will change and instead of buying winter clothes I will be buying Accounting books. Also, I would mention that I will meet some very influential people while attending ISU and that I should embrace that experience and take as much as I can from it. Lastly I would tell myself that it is going to be very difficult and stressful but if I do not experience hardship and learn to work through it then I will never develop into the woman I am meant to be.

Mallory

I have spent many nights lying awake in my bed wishing I could go back in time to give my high school senior self some much needed words of advice. The most important thing I would have told myself would be that the AP classes I thought were too hard were only so hard because they were actually preparing students for college courses. I would encourage myself to take them instead of sliding by with easy courses, which ultimately failed to truly prepare me for college. Furthermore, I would have told myself to go on more college visits, and explore more options because my high school self assumed that college life was the same wherever you went. Finally, I would have pushed myself to become more concerned with learning to speak in public. I would tell myself that the hardest thing for me to deal with entering college was learning to speak in front of people. Communicating in front of a classroom is often expected of you in college, and I constantly wish I would have spent more time learning to speak in public in high school.

Joanie

I was raised in a big family. Knowing that I would even get the chance to finish high school and was given little hope on going to college due to money and my parents not be able to send me. I excepted the fact. But now when I think back to how it should of turned out, I could of ask for help and went to college right after high school. I know now at this time in my life, that its never to late to go after your dreams and let nothing stop you from reaching your goals.

Che'

Dear Self, You are a high school senior, way to go! I know you have many ambitions for your future, yet seem very nervous. However, I want to tell you, don't be afraid to try. Dare to dream. Don't limit yourself, but explore different avenues. This could mean joining the glee club, which is something you would never do in high school. Whatever you do, just try. I know many have told you that going college was impossible. However, I beg to differ. Just make sure to take advantage of all the resources on campus (i.e. career center, library assistance, even using your work study for your advantage). Never let anyone tell you "you can't". Remember, with God, all things are possible, you just have to believe. So, stand up straight girl, keep your goals in mind, and I will see you at graduation. Sincerely, Self.

Heather

I would tell myself to apply for Air Force ROTC scholarships in high school. I had to work really hard to earn mine in college so I could have had an earlier start. I also would have told myself to save as much money as possible, and also not to bring so much stuff to school my freshman year! I also would have told myself to get more involved in high school extra activities so that I could get used to having a busy schedule.

noreal

to stay at only one school

Lacy

I would say that you need to give your college education all of your effort. You need to strive to succeed and leave all the family issues behind. You are smart and worth it. Work for your future and don't worry about what others think. Use fianancial aid grants and work study; wait on loans as a last resort. Budget and pace yourself well

Cassandra

Have your student apply to as many places as early as possible to keep their options open and to keep scholarships available to them. When it comes down to choosing, remember that it should be entirely their decision. They will not succeed where they are unhappy.

Jessica

Always visit the campus. A college may have what you want to study but if the campus does not feel right the student will not do well.

Brittany

Finding the right college involves a lot of research on both the parents and students parts. Students should visit the campus at least twice and walk around to get the feel of it. Something that I did was contact students who were going to Indiana State and asked about how they liked their dorm, dealing with roomates and what to do for fun in the area. It is a great way to make friends before you go and it can help put your mind at ease if you are nervous about the big move. Parents should also visit the campus with their student and ask any questions they have, if they are on a tour, of the guide. They should also chat with someone in the financial aide department if there are any financial concerns to see what they can afford with their budget and how to get extra funds just to be on the safe side. The right college will have your degree, driven students, caring professors and a staff of deans and other school professionals that will take the time to make sure you get everything done on time and correctly.

Ellen

To both parents and students, look to see if the schools offer the major your interested in, but also consider the cost and how much the university is willing to help you. If your major is offered at both a private and a public university, the public university will probably offer more help. As for making the most of the college experience, remember that this is your chance to start over. No one knows you yet, so you can be anyone you want to be. A clean slate.

Angela

The most important part of finding the right college is personal fit. A student is more successful if they are in an environment they like, and in which he or she is most comfortable. Unfortunately, that is not always the cheapest school, or even the most prestigious school. But if prestige is not important to the student's future career, keep in mind that it may be best not to go with the "wow" school. I chose a small university, with little prestige, but the exact program I was looking for, and so I feel I am getting the best education, if not the most "wow" factor on my resume. To me, that is what really matters.

Dimitria

Make sure you weigh out all the pros and cons of attending a certain university. Class size and professor/student interaction is something that should be fully considered.

Katie

I would tell them to make sure it is what the student wants. Check into the programs before deciding on your school.

Cheryl

My advice to parents and students selecting a college for higher education and learning is to be persistent and consistent in your application submission. And always apply for financial aid as early as possible. Last, do not take your studies lightly, even in high school and grade school. And committ to giving back to society in some way. The challenge of doing for others is rewarding in itself.

Megan

I highly recommend new college students to direct your life and career into something that you enjoy doing. Do not make your major a subject that will supposedly pay you more then anything else. You will and your co-workers will not be happy if you are just there to make money. Find something that you truely enjoy doing and makes you who you are. A student who accepts a low paying job but enjoys every minute of it will be much happier in the long run with their life then a student who does the complete opposite. When it comes to parents, I never had any there for me, and it hurt horribly. Not having that support system and encouragement made me feel alone and scared me. I did become more independant but it's very important for a college student to have good support or someone to turn to when they are having a hard time. Having someone there to listen, understand or even just reflect their thoughts will help them succeed mentally, causing them to be more successful at school and in life as well. Parents should be supportive by writing, calling, texting or even just Aiming. :-)

Alexis

I would say do your research, study the demographic, the class size, and the location. Find out how you are going to pay for college. I would say visit the university and see the culture of the campus first hand before you make a decision on either attending this school or sending your child there

Heather

When looking for a college you need to visit a lot of them and get a feel for them. Talk to the students who attend and ask lots of questions. Look for a school with smaller class sizes where you can get to know everyone and especially the professors. It's such a good feeling when the professors know your name. The cost doesn't matter as much as the fact that you are comfortable. There are many scholarships to apply for, so worry about how you feel, not how much it costs. No matter where you go to college just make sure that it is right for you. Take the time to do your "homework" when deciding which college to choose.

Chelsea

Always make sure that you visit the college that you are planning on attending before hand. I would recommend making two trips, one with your parents, and one without. It is important for you to know about your school not only from a scholars point of view, but also from a social point of view so that you know if the school is really a fit for you.

Emily

For parents, if your child wants to pursue something that they are passionate about, support them. That will give them the confidence to succeed. Let your child look at a college that has programs that they want to pursue. There are scholarships and other aid to help with tuition. For Students, Go To Class!!!!!!!!!!! Attendance is very important, it will help you with your grade!!!!!!!!!! It can raise your grade. Think positive and go for your dreams! Make friends while you are in college they can last a lifetime, and that is a beautiful thing. Work Hard and don't give up on your dreams! Keep your head up and when you earn that degree it will be an awarding experience.

melissa

dont be scared to move away to school because that was the best thing i ever did.

Arielle

Finding the right college isn't about test scores and grades. It's about finding a place you can call home, a place where you feel that you fit in right away. You don't want to pick a college that you will be miserable at until you graduate. There is nothing like the college experience and you can't replace the wonderful experience you'll have while at college. Make the most of it do something that's out of you're comfort zone you never know you may end up liking it. Become involved in various activities around campus. Take a class that you're curious about the subject of. These are the best years of your life you'll meet new friends, go through some pretty hard times, but in the end you won't want to trade any of it for the world. Enjoy yourself!

Craig

make sure you look at all over your option before chosing a college

Stephanie

Apply to more than one place some in-state and some out. Go see the campus. Walk around, have lunch, get the experience. I went to a women's basketball game at my college before I made my choice. Find out about the history of the campus and about the department that you are thinking about going into. See if there is an upperclassmen in the department that can show you around the buildings that you might be in. Just go explore and choose the school that feels right. As a student you have to choose a school that you love and as a parent you have to let your child choose, even if that means letting them go to a school out of the state. If the student is not happy at the school, they will not do well. Trust your gut. Choose what you love.

Anna

Visit more than once. It's hard to peg with just one short visit. Get to know people. And if it feels right, it probably is. But remember what's most important to you.

Dylan

Go with whatever college suits your needs. If you need something close, don't be discouraged by a college that isn't your first choice. Your parents should be supportive of whatever you do, because sometimes it takes a few wrongs to make a right, and they should know that before anyone. Above all else, have fun, and try to learn something!

Lindsay

I would tell parents and students to do as much research as possinble when selecting a university. Thoroughly browse through the website, call the department chair of the field of your choice, and schedule a campus visit and tour to ensure that the college is right for you. The visit is a very important step in which some people choose not to partake, but it is the only way to know whether the campus "feels right" to you. To make the most of the college experience, students should find the balance between fun and academics. I had a wonderful time in college but still maintained a 3.91 GPA and graduated with honors. Most campuses have numerous activities in which students can get involved. Find the ones that interest you, do your research, and sign up early! An important point to remember is don't overload yourself! Although there are hundreds of campus activities, you cannot participate in them all and must be sure not to let your schoolwork suffer. On the other hand, be sure not to let schoolwork overwhelm you- take breaks and have fun, because four years will be over before you know it!

Megan

If you can stay at home and save money do it, but expect to give your kid some lose rules.

Andrew

Finding the right college is like finding the pair of shoes which fit the most. Students must make sure they are comfortable with the institution they are going to attend, and parents need be supportive of the student's decision. Although academics are the primary reason for college, the student is the one who lives there. College opens up a whole new world for students; for some it is the first time away from home, for others its the first time they have control of when their "bedtime" is and which kind of people to associate with. Students must learn to function socially while focusing on why they are attending college in the first place: for their academics. Its a tough life and hard to find balance between work and play. Through determination and a few personal experiences, students will figure out how to succeed in college. It is up to the parents to be there for the students when they need it, but not necessarily to know their student's activities on a daily basis. Students may or may not tell their parents how their personal lives are, and this is something parents should be ready to deal with.

David

Make sure your kids pick a place that they are going to get the most out of. College is an experience like no other and kids should enjoy their college experience.

Edward

Try to find a college that is close to home. It will be a lot cheaper. Also pick one that is located in a good town, that way you won't get bored.

Kristi

I am very lucky to have found the right university for me. I encourage all incoming freshman to visit many campuses and apply to all universityies you may want to attend. The size of the campus and living conditions of the town will have an impact on you time at the university; seeing a variety of campuses will help you choose the best college for you. I would also encourage incoming freshman to talk to students who attend the university; see how their experience has gone, learn their dislikes and likes about the campus. Finally I would advise the future students to research colleges and what major areas are focused there. Certain universities focus are certain major topics and can be more helpful when job hunting. I know I am an Education major and at Indiana State they offer early experience in community schools to better prepare future teachers. This is great and I know some schools do the same activities for other majors, so definately reasearch universities for your area of study.

Keonna

Find a college that fits you! Remember that this will be your home for the next 2-4 years. Look at what the university has to offer you if they have sports you like, clubs you may want to join, activites to do or if they are good with job placement. We as students go off to college to get an education, but we also have to realize that college isn't just school, its an experience. For most this will be the first time we will be living on our own, making our own rules, making decisions for ourselves and being responsible for those decisions. If you attend a university for the wrong reasons you will be miserable and 4 years is a long time to be miserable. So my advice is to research lots of schools, make visits see the campus for yourself. Not only that talk to students as you see them around get a current students opinion. Just remember college will be your home and as the old saying goes "Home is where the heart is!"

Courtney

Look at as many places as you can!

Nadine

Different schools are known for their different majors; thus, if the student has decided a major, I would first look at schools who have excellent programs in that area. Also, the student needs to consider in what environment he or she thrives. I prefer smaller class sizes on a campus with a community type feeling, which is why I choose the school I did. In addition, it is important to discover what the campus has to offer, including transition programs and extracurricular activities. It is also important to speak with current students to learn more about the campus environment. For instance, I do best with challenging professors, and I found out that my university had many professors like this through speaking with students. To make the most out of college, it is very important to get invovled. Students can do this by playing sports, joining clubs, attending events on campus, finding employment on campus, etc. Students need to create a home away from home at college. In addition, students need to remember why they are at college: to learn. I believe it is important to go above and beyond; let curiosity lead and do more work than is expected.

Beth

Make sure they are ready for the whole experience . Let them know that this is a SERIOUS EXPERIENCE, and that they can have fun with out alcohol and drugs.