Jacksonville University Top Questions

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

Shiquita

Explore you choices and don't rush in to it.

Ben

College is about research. Teachers want their students to research, so I would tell parents and students to do the same. The student should first understand his/her own interest. A liberal arts college is very different from a non- liberal arts college and a public college is very different from a private collage. Researching can let the parents and students find out what the college has to offer; social life, athletics, majors, and even living. The college should appeal to the student so once the student gets there he/she could flourish and grow into a young adult. Once the colleges have been researched, make a top five list and then visit the schools to feel if they mesh with the atmosphere of the college. Good atmospheres are very important. Being in a good atmosphere makes the student comfortable and if the student is comfortable, once hes at the college he will feel free to engage in many of the college activities. The college experience is about upgrading yourself as a person to have the tools to be successful in life. THis can be very stressful so being in a supportive and friendly atmosphere promotes growth and success.

Corey

Dont pick your school based on your friends decisions, base it on you Future goals.

Felix

When looking for a college or University, students should consider what is right for them, not the most prestige or popular college campus in the area or out of state. Students and parents should look for activities and clubs offered on campus, and keep an open eye for the friendliness of faculty and administration. If the students looking into University life does better in smaller, more intimate classrooms, then a private school may fit their interests somewhat better than a large University. As long as the choice in school is convenient for both the student and the parent, then both parties will get the most out the college experience.

Aaron

The college experience is one of the most defining eras of any person?s life. During college you not only find out which career you will pursue, but often who you are as a person. For many students the newfound freedom of life away from their parents can sometimes be plagued with the images of partying, alcohol, and sex. At many schools, these images are actualities. When choosing the perfect school, I encourage you and your child to think about what his or her goals truly are in life. They may not know what they want to do for a career, but I believe everyone has an ideal image of what they would like their lives to be like in 10 years. Think about this image and decide which of your weaknesses would keep you from obtaining this goal. When looking into a school, ask current students how they view their campus in terms of partying, academic helpfulness, extracurricular activities, and other aspects that may hinder/help you during your experience. Remember that the most important goal is your degree, but you should enjoy the experience. Your college years are stepping stones in you life?s journey, enjoy them.

Kirsten

If given the opportunity to advise parents and/or students with making the right college choice, I would use my personal experiences as a guide. During my own college selection process, I feel that I began by taking the wrong steps. I started very late with completing the process, which gave me little time to find the school that was the best fit for me. It also limited me to which schools I would be able to apply , simply because of the nearly approaching application deadlines. My first advice would be to start your college research as early as possible because the earlier you start, the higher chance you will have to get into the college of your choice. I would advise parents to talk to teach their children early on the importance of recieving a college eduaction. It i best to help them to understand that in order to have stability in life, they must work hard to earn a degree. It is also very important for parents to encourage their children to follow a path that interests them. When one is passionate about their job, they will perform to highest abilities.

Lee

None

Amanda

When selecting a college or university I feel that you need to feel comfortable when you are on campus. When you are in a more comfortable setting you will find it easier to learn and make friends. Obviously finances need to be a deciding factor, but always remember you do get what you pay for. The faculty should be diverse and easy to talk to. This is a big decision to make and it will change the rest of your life. Just remember to take it all in when you are on a campus tour. Remember the views, the faces, the smells in the air. This will be your life for the next four years. And parents let your children have a say, this is not an oppurtunity for you to live vicarously through them.

Nicole

Go with your heart. Dont just go to a school because you got accepted. Really look into the school and see what it is really about. Do a campus tour.

Danielle

I would recommend that you actually visit the school and associate with the admissions office about what college is best for you. Having an open mind when you enter college and while you are still at college is the best way to make the most out of the college experience. When you are in college, make the most out of everything, but make sure not to lose yourself in the process. While in college, it is freedom and having the right to make your own decisions and deciding whats best for you.

DeMarco

College is amazing! Life is all about experiences and in college there will be plenty of opportunities to do life changing things so take advantage of them. Parents if your student would like to consider pledging a fraternity or sorority, let them do so. Joining a fraternity is one of the best things I have ever done because has allowed me to become a better leader and learn so much about life.

Heidi

I would advise students and/or parents to talk to as many students that attend that university as possible before deciding on that institution. I would also say that your college experience is in your hands so you have to try to make the best out of it with what you have.

aidan

JU is a fun time

Alexandra

First and foremost, if you're interested in a University go and visit it. Don't agree to go to a Univeristiy if the first time you've ever laid eyes on it is Freshman Orientation. Also, it's crucial for new students to live on campus and with a roommate. I know most students are used to their own rooms twice the size of dorm rooms, but it really makes all the difference. Also, right from the start of your Freshman year, get involved! Get involved with clubs and organizations that you were involved with in High School, but also try new things too. These extra curricular things will really make your college experience great. And one last suggestion, I know it's tempting to get to college and go buck wild with parties and drinking, but remember to have respect for yourself and others. You do not want to start off your Freshman year as the Fresheman that can't hold their liquor. You will lose more friends and respect of your fellow classmates that way than any other way. Good Luck!

Yvette

Look into your colleges, go do student tours and see if you can sit in on a class or two. You should try out the food and walk the campus to get the feel of the campus.

Christina

When selecting a college, I would advise parents/students to tour the college and try to use resources such as the caferteria and library, as well as visiting classrooms where classes will be held (this way, you can tell class size). If you are ino the arts, consider touring the art/music building, as well as the performance halls. In addition, get a detalied list of tuition, and consider how easy it will be to park on campus. While on campus, get involved. This is the easiest way to meet people, and then you can do other activities which are not campus affiliated. Don't forget, however, that school is for academics, so always keep your grades in mind!

Amber

My advice for students who are searching for the right college is to go with their first instinct. Pick the school that stands out above all the rest in your mind. Look online, do research, and visit the campus to make sure you feel comfortable and that you fit in. Make sure that the school offers everything you are looking for and goes even above and beyond that. It needs to be a home away from home. It should be a place that welcomes you and that goes out of it's way to help you become happy and successful. You can make the most of your college experience by joining every club and organization that suits your personality. Make sure to always keep academics your first priority. But also make sure to get involved in everything on campus. Form study groups, be outgoing, join clubs, go to meetings, sports games, bible studies, and anything else in your interest. Always do everything with heart and determination. And never let one fall/mistake discourage you from the great potential you have inside to be a major success! College should be a fun, hard-working, and memorable experience.

Laura

Make sure you have the choosen area of study first, then start looking at colleges. Choose at least three different colleges that have your major. Compare the degree plans and the extra curricular activities that are imporatant. The last thing to consider is location.

Frances

I believe that parents should attend the open houses and orientations. They need to take the time to meet the professors, students, and assisting faculty. They need to physically set foot on the property. They should also look into the program the child wishes to attend and see how graduates perform on national testing and job placement after graduation.