Indiana State University Top Questions

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

Adriane

Make sure to visit a lot of campuses, that way you can compare one to the other.

Amanda

Don't hesitate to throw anything out. Something you never think you would be interested in might surprise you later. Research hard and find what you like, but keep in mind, every campus produces success, because every campus has successful people on it. It's not about which campus has the best fraternities or food venues, it's about how hard you work and the time you put into your work. You are your success, not your campus.

Rachael

Finding the right college is about finding a place where you would be happy; this is not necessarily the most prestigious school. Some people do better at really big schools where they can be anonymous; others like a more intimate setting where they can really get to know their professors. I think that what you get out of your education is what you put into it; for example, I came out of a little-known state school (that is not even close to being "prestigious") that happened to have an excellent program in chemistry that really nurtured me and gave me a lot of opportunities; now, I am attending a top-20 medical school. It's all about what you put into it - you should get involved with things you are passionate about and learn as much as you can in your classes - after all, you are paying for your education, so you may as well get your money's worth! College is all about finding what you want to do for the rest of your life, so you have to experience things to get a sense of who you are and what you would be successful doing.

Amber

visit the college often and don't make this decision without your parents and pray.

Mileah

I would tell them to look at all aspects of the colleges they are interested in. It is important to know how the university stands academically including the student-teacher ratio, the types of classes offered and the availability of extra help if needed. I also think it is important to look at the campus. You want to make sure who are going to be going somewhere you are comfortable since this is going to be your home for the next few years. Extracurricular activities are also sgnificant. Many employers look for this part of a persons resume and base some of their decisions to hire you on what extra things you did in college.

Jane

When I was applying for college, I took the advice of an instructor. I had not planned on attending Indiana State University because it was located in the city where I was raised. However, after hearing that the school offered the program that I was interested in, I acted on the instructors advice and applied for the school. Although I never visited the campus or took a day off from school to come and walk around the campus, I visited the financial aid office with my father. I would advise parents, along with their son or daughter, to visit the campus and to become aware of what the school has to offer. Whatever program the son or daughter is wanting to investigate, have them talk with the instructors about the work that is required in the program; the overall workload and expectations of the professors. Also, have the students and his or her parents visit the financial aid office and find out what programs or scholarships are offered for their child, as well as jobs on or off campus. This will give them a head start. Lastly, pray about the major and see what desires God puts on your heart.

Laurie

Pray about what college to attend. I was advised by a teacher in high school who is an alum of I.S.U. to attend the university for the particular degree program that I was seeking. I have found the college to be super in terms of availability of professors, faculty, and staff. The university is riddled with hard-working individuals and people who really want to help make the campus a better environment for potential students. For making most of the college experience, parents should invest in their child's future. Get to know the financial aid staff and make yourself known to them. They will be working with you for the next 4-6 years. Also, make yourself aware of what goes on in the campus; any extra-curricular activies. Students, invest in your campus. Get to know people and get to know your professors. Whatever profession you choose, the professors know a lot and want to help you become better prepared for the future. Enjoy the studies that you are in, but also know that good study habits and recreational activities will benefit you in the future. Develop good habits early.

Corey

Students should find a school that lets them be themselves.

Evan

Start early, keep focused and remember it's always attainable. Parents need to start early on talking about college and the importants of a good education. Also start early in looking for scholarships with their children as early as middle school, there are many out there awarded to 13 year olds. Students need to be reminded from middle school on, grades are important, from freshman on your GPA + ACT or SAT can get you in or keep you out. Your college experience is all up to you. Get involved with your college, get to know your school both academically & socially. Your professors & advisors can be one of your best resources to attain your goals. Friends you make in college can last a lifetime. The end result of college can influence a lifetime.

Justine

I strongly urge students and their parents to go on as many college visits as possible. Visit any college you, the student, have interest in. Be sure to take into consideration the atmosphere and environment. Once you have visited all the colleges you want, make a top five list and decide on at least three of the top five to apply for admission. Students and parents should research the colleges and find out classroom sizes, campus size, the amount of help financially and academically offered, and the college's rate of job placements. Parents need to be supportive and listen to all ideas the flow through the students. Parents also should not push their student in one direction or the other. It is the student?s life, not parents. While in college, I encourage students to be active in sports, whether it is intramurals or varsity. Get active in organizations or clubs that interest you. Use all the help that is offered if you need it. Be sure to get involved the first few weeks because that is where you meet most of your friends.

Penny

Look at all kinds of colleges before you decide. Choose the college you felt the most comfortable at and make sure they have everything you need to succeed!

Chris

I would tell students and/or parents that when deciding the right college for themselves or their children is to make sure you or they will know that they are comfortable within the surroundings and people on the campus. Also to make sure that they are comfortable with the buildings and dorms and set up of the town and campus. As to the point of making the most out of the college experience you just need to be yourself and be open to everyone and new experiences so that your college experience is the best it can be.

Angela

Take advantage of campus tours. Ask about maybe sitting in on a class, or meeting with department heads in your field of interest. Most professors are willing. Stay on top of financial aid! Make sure EVERYONE involved (student, parents, banks, school) knows whats going on and always have a back-up plan. If you have to work, work on campus. Off-campus empolyers aren't as likely to work with your class schedule. Check with the campus career center or human resources. As painful as it sounds, go to freshman orientation. You really do pick up some useful stuff. Know how to have fun, but know when to stop. Remember that a 4.0 GPA isn't life or death. Its just a number. What really counts is the knowledge you absorb during your time in class.