Kansas State University Top Questions

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

Alexandria

Knowing what I know about college life, I would tell myself that you need to adapt pretty early. College is pretty scary at first but it turns out to be the best time of your life because you get to make all of the choices of what you do about homework and going to class. But, don't get caught up with all of the fun activities, you still need to take time and work on your grades. You can't let them slip because you can't afford to fail.

Amanda

Stay focused on your goals. Boys are not the most important thing in the world. The right guy will show up eventally. You need to be an independent girl who is eduated and can take care of her self. Try different options in college before picking a major. Spend time with Grandma Phyllis, you never know when things might change. Stay in town for school, WSU isnt want you think its going to be, and you will need the support of your family to make it through the long struggle of college life. Stay positive, never look back, and ALWAYS tell the ones you love how you feel about them. Things are not forever, make the best of what you can now! Enjoy your friends, they will slip away, and you will miss the fun you once had. Never give up on your dreams to be a college graduate, and a mom, and a great daughter. Stay strong, even though bad things will happen over the next several years, try to focuse on the positive, and the good that has come from those things!!!

Gustaf

I would tell myself to prepare financially first, college is not a cheap endeavour and needs proper planning money wise. In high school numerous people told me that college was expensive, however you don't really grasp how expensive it is until you experience it first hand. Another thing I would tell myself is to learn how to study correctly. In high school I was able to not study for tests and still do very well on them, in college you can't get by as easy. Studying is very important and is necessary to succeed in school. If you work hard on studying, go to class, and manage your time well, you will have the best oppurtunity to succeed. All of this is important, but I would also tell myself to have fun and meet people. College is a great place to make friends and meet new people. It introduces you to how the rest of the world runs. I would tell myself that college is a wonderful place; if you do all the right things, it provides the best preperation for life after school.

Teklemariam

If i could go back in highschool the first thing i would do is manage my time, because when i was in highschool i didn't care much about my education. i always hanged out with my friends and when it was time for an exam i would cramp my self and do poorly on the test. if i managed my time and was more serious i would get a 4.5 GPA in highschool even taking AP classes

Sean

I would tell myself that college is the time where you really learn about yourself and learn to live on your own. At college, you will be exposed to many different viewpoints, things and experiences both good and bad, and many different people. It is at college where you will form the basis of your identity for you future life and who you are. Make sure to get involved with campus groups related to your major and your interests. Take full advantage of these groups and study abroad opportunities. When an opportunity presents itself, go above other students and take it. Think to yourself, in ten years will I regret doing this or not doing this when I look back at my college career? Don't be shy; go out and make friends, some will be lifelong and some will be potential co-workers. Get involved with a church community and work on your faith and beliefs. Many of the things you will be exposed to at college do not coincide with Christian beliefs and values, but it is up to you to decide how you will react and how you choose to live.

Tyler

The university setting is an exciting and everchanging experience! The anticipation of college is surreal as there are many emotions flowing - anticipation, nervousness, financial stress, etc. I recommend two key things to obtain the most from a college experience and life in general. Work hard and have an open mind. Working hard allows you to keep many doors open through achieving good grades, obtaining good references, and keeping a good reputation around campus and the community. However, keeping an open mind is equally important as this leads to true enjoyment through spontaneity. Many of my best experiences in college have came through things that I did not anticipate doing in my college career such as studying abroad, taking road trips, extremely late nights at the library. These days and nights allow you to form unbreakable bonds with peers and in the future these people many times will end up being the ones that will set you in your career path. The connections that can be made from these events are priceless. So go on and live life - live the college life to the fullest!

Rachael

Hey, Rachael. Congradulation: you made it through high school. I'm so proud of you because I know how hard you worked. However, I've got some news: you're not done yet. During the next few years, you are going to work harder than you ever have before. I understand that academics came easy to you during high school, but college is a different world. You are going to have to use all of your brainpower. But don't get discouraged, the best time of your life is ahead. You are going to do things and make friends that you can't even imagine now. Did you know that your best friend is going to be from a foreign country? You are going to learn so much from her and be a great help to her in her transition to America. You will also make mistakes. Some of them are going to be big ones. All I can tell you is to remember everything that you have been taught and to use your God-given intelligence to make good choices. But don't ever forget to follow your heart. These will be the best years of your life.

Eva

I would go back and tell myself to look at my options. Do more research and not just choose on where your family goes. Take a look at all your choices and make sure when you choose a college it is the right college for you.

Shea

I have always believed that hindsight is twenty-twenty. There are many things that I see clearly now that I wish I could go back in time and tell myself about. Perhaps most important of these things would be to tell myself how truly important trying to excell in high school is. I was young and had no rational plans for the future, college being a frivolous idea that my parents, teachers and councelors tried to jam down my throat. It took me a long time to realize what my actions were doing to my future and I certainly have paid the price for my mistakes. So if I could go back to high school I would say, apply yourself, do the best that you can even if you can not yet see the long term rewards. My biggest mistake in high school was being blind to the long term goals in my life. But life is clearer now, college is not the demon I thought it would be and I am truly proud of myself. I now look forward to the goals I know I can achieve.

Thomas

I would have pushed myself to try harder in high school. I was gifted enough not to have to put much effort into classes to get B's and A's. With that being the case I never pushed myself to get as many A's as possible. This hindered my in my transition between high school and my undergraduate career. On top of that, it also left me short GPA wise, of a lot of potential scholarships. Making that transition was very hard on me, because for the first time in my life I had to study to get through classes and I had no idea how to do that. It took me all of my freshman year to figure out that skill and left me with a 2.3 GPA. Once I figured things out I kicked it into gear and graduated from Kansas State University with a 3.15.

Caitlin

Go with your heart and go to KSU instead of USD. Keep an open mind about what you want to do with your life and don't worry about changing majors.

Chanelle

Honestly, I feel as though a college experience is one that helps students grow into the people they are meant to be. I wouldn't prepare myself for the transition to come because that is part of the experience. There a variety of bumps and bruises down the road, but how you handle those situations is what makes you a strong person. Therefore, no preparation is sometimes the best approach if it is comfortable for you.

Evan

First off, I would tell myself to apply to schools that would allow me to follow my dream of being a golf professional, no matter how long I had wanted to attend Kansas State University. Secondly, I would address the situation of fraternity life. It can be very hard to transition from a small private Christian high school, to a house full of 75 guys with no parents watching over your shoulder. Things can get a little out of control. I would tell myself that no matter how tough the living situation got, stick it out and stick with your beliefs. In the end, beliefs and values shape who you are. They give you the wisdom to discern between right and wrong. Lastly, I would tell myself that college is a time to explore your talents, and develope new ones. Try as many things as you can, and learn what you like and dislike. Use those opportunities to help choose the career path that best fits your abilities and personality. After all, college is the ticket to a life full of excitement and discovery.

Sarah

Take more AP classes, and study more. Even if it means that I can't always participate in sports. You can do a lot more than you think academically.

Bethany

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to chill, and not stress out over a major. Majors in most colleges mean very little in the "real world" - history, english, chemistry, or biology majors end up everywhere. Instead, it would be better to just take classes that sound interesting and engaging for the first year or two, then pick a major based on the class curriculum. During this time, you (I) should talk to professors, find out what their field is about and why they're in it. It's best to talk to people who are passionate about their studies than a random career advisor who may not have the passion for spatial statistics that a geography professor will.

Lisa

I would advise myself to take more chances and to not work TOO hard. Looking back I wish I would have taken more opportunities to get involved on campus and try crazy and unique clubs. When I got to school I just focused on my work and grades which is good, but I wish I would have stepped back to enjoy the oppurtunities that college presents that you don't get to try later on in life.

Ashlee

I would tell myself to be prepared for change, to be open and willing to embrace it. College is all about finding yourself and where you belong. Don't be scared, rather take one small step at a time and enjoy it! But be cautious that you are making the best and healthiest decisions possible for yourself.

Michaela

I would tell myself to not be worried about going to college. Try to not be shy and talk to people, becuase most of them here are friendly. Open up, be yourself, work hard, and have a good time.

KaCee

I would have made myself go to Kansas State University my freshman year of college instead of going to a local community college that was near home. I was scared to go to such a large school since I come from a small town. Now that I have made the transition I think it would have been easier to get involved with clubs and organizations if I had been up here my freshman year. I am still going to purse these opportunities for the remaining years I will spend here.

Laura

I would say to research all your possibilities. And to apply to all the schools that you can, even if you think you've got the one you want.

Justin

Think a little harder and longer about the major you want to be in. Don't be so afraid of not knowing right away what you want to do. (I have a hard time not having a career path in mind. The idea of inefficiency and not knowing where to go next scares me.) Investigate more schools and majors. Never settle. Go to a college with more people like yourself and realize that when your field is populated by people that are very unlike yourself, you're probably in the wrong major.

Justin

Well first off I would go back and tell myself that college is not at all high school. I say this because there is a lot more work involved in order to get a good grade in college, where as in high school you could just go through the motions. Also, I would tell myself to get to know people in your classes because they are a free and easy social event. Also the more people you get to know in your classes the easier it makes the class for everybody because everybody is willing to help. One of the most important things to tell myself would be to get a tutor if I need one. There were a couple times in college where I have been embarrased to get a tutor where it really would have helped and I ended up doing bad in those classes. The last piece of advice I would give myself would be to be myself and be my own person. That is the already the way I am, but I would just use that piece as a friendly reminder.

Michael

You're going to absolutely love college and the life that comes with it. The freedom of being on your own is going to test you and it will be up to you on how you handle it. Without Mom and Dad there making sure you get your homework done, you'll need to make yourself buckle down and keep up with your studies. While doing homework, always allot yourself some extra time because it always takes a little longer than you expect. When studying for tests, always go up and above what you think you need to know because there is always going to be a question about that one topic you didn't cover. Don't be afraid to talk to people and make friends. Nearly everyone is just as apprehensive to start random conversation with a new person as you. There's enough people at the university to find the type of people you want to have as friends but the campus is condensed enough that it will be easy to find and meet them. Never give up and face every obstacle with every ounce of effort you can put forth. Best of Luck!

Eric

Make sure that you save whatever money you have made or will make, because although you do get financial aid from the school, paying for rent, books, utilities and food can get a little much while trying to stay in school full time. It's really not that hard to find cheap places to live around campus which is good, however it's never a bad idea to have extra money saved up. Keep in mind that it's very simple to find a job to work around your class schedule and it's also pretty easy to find classes that only meet a couple of days a week so it leaves more time to work. I guess what I'm trying to say is some people might say money isn't that important and no it's really not the most important thing in life, but try living without it and see how far you get.

Brandi

To choose the right degree for me. Really research and look at different degees and careers and go with your heart. Make sure you study and keep track of your work and schedules.

Joshua

In high school, there is so much drama and pressure to fit in, to feel like you belong, and to do well academically. I was involved in almost every organization in school because I wanted to have an amazing college resume. At the same time, I was constantly self-conscious of what other people thought of me. I wanted to be the guy that people looked up to, that everyone liked and could be friends with. There were times where I would get so worried about having a certain reputation and it carrying with me into college. However, once I actually arrived to my univeristy I realized that none of those petty high school issues mattered anymore. College is a completely new experience where you can start all over. No one knows about your past or what you've done before coming to college. If I could go back, I would tell myself to just be me and to live life how I wanted it to be, not how others thought I should be. That is the beauty of college, you can express yourself however you choose, however it makes you happy pursuing the dream that you have.

Dan

Dont be nervous. Kansas State is a good school. The people here are extremly nice and you will fit in perfectly.

Sarah

Just get out of Kansas! They may not think you're worth much in high school, but you are.

Troy

Since I got my GED early, I just wish I would have started college sooner. Don't procrastinate.

Nicole

Be prepared to work very hard. A's in highschool are B's and C's in college. And apply for more scholarships, earlier! And use the full resources and support of family, friends and professors, this will cut down on the amount of stress you will face.

Aubrie

First, I would probably say to room with someone whom I didn't know very well. I roomed with my best friend freshman year of college, and we hung out with each other rather than branching out. You need to make new friends and get involved, because your old friends might not stay at the same school for all four years. Choose the major that YOU want to do, not what others want for you. You can't go through college studying what your parents want you to study, or you'll just be miserable. I chose what I wanted to do, and even though it's hard, I'm loving it! Next, study...a lot! You don't have to miss out on your social life, but there has to be a balance! You have to remind yourself that this is your major and you need to be an expert in it! And last, but not least, have fun! Skip the wild parties and go to the lake, have movie nights, go out to eat, build relationships. Life is to be enjoyed, so when you get stressed, grab some friends and just hang out!

Anthony

Get involved and standout. There are going to be plenty of opportunities to get involved on campus such as religious groups, dorm activities, leadership positions, and travel abroad. Many of these chances only come once and to miss one will be a great loss trust me I already missed some of these opportunities. Plus by getting involved is going to foster relationships with remarkable people like the dorm buddies you'll make in the future. If you keep the door closed on these chances in college you will never grow into the person you want to be when you get out. The last point I have is just standout. Just because everybody is looking to find a job on campus working for someone doesn't mean you have to. I've taken the risk to start my own dorm-based company that helps consult residents on dorm designing and dorm room layout. Don't stick with the norms break the mold and take risks that are going to define you as not only a future entrepreneur, but as a father and a husband. This is the best time in your life to help yourself by being yourself. Good luck man!

Sarah

Most student are very anxious about choosing the 'perfect' college and major. The most important thing to keep in mind when you are completing your college search, is to choose a college that you think you can be happy attending. If the tuiton is sky high and the thought of taking out that many loans makes you feel sick, consider a different school. If you have no clue what you want to major in, choose a school that has plenty of possible options you would like. Last of all, visit the school (more than once!) and if you feel welcome like you are at home while you are there, it is a good sign! Come to school with an open and outgoing attitude and you will have a new close group of friends in days, if not hours. Don't be afraid to try new things, because there are so many opportunities to learn about your interests while you are in college! My advice to parents is even if you are willing to handle all the financial stuff for your child, DON'T! Let them pay for as much as they can, that way they will appreciate being there.

Emily

It is important, when choosing the right college, to, first and foremost, make sure that they have the programs that would benefit the student best and provide the most opportunities. Then, narrowing down that list by figuring out what environment you would like to be in: ranging from smaller, private colleges to large public colleges. Students should be careful of parents imposing their own views on the student and swaying their opinions. While parents provide great insight, students should decide where they would fit best for themselves. This is really decided after visiting the colleges that fit what the student is looking for. A back-up plan is always good in case other plans fall through. Applying to more than one college is great to keep options open. Many people end up changing colleges after a semester or a year, so the student should never feel trapped anywhere. Sometimes, trial and error are the only methods to learning what is right for a person. The student that is open to trying new and different things is the one that will have the most chances at finding the right place for them.

Kameron

Find a college that offers all the things the student needs or wants.

Rebecca

Students- Don't follow your friends, or pick a school by what you hear. Make sure you visit the school and ask a few questions. Don't choose a school based on major either. Chances are, you will change it before you graduate. Parents- Don't pressure your student to attend a school because you went there or you think they have the best program for your student. Most likely they will change their major 3 or 4 times (I know I have) and if you go to a school that excells in one thing you are closing your options.

Michelle

Start looking early, try to go for afordable but good colleges and plan for financial aid. Most important have fun.

Jacque

The most important advice I have is to be financially prepared for college. I had very little savings and was not eligible for grants. I had scholarships that helped pay for tuition, but not enough money for living expenses. I worked sometimes up to 60 hours a week to pay for my living expenses and the rest of my educational needs, and this made it very hard to a) take more than 12 hours at a time and b)succeed in my classes. In turn, this meant it has taken me longer to graduate, which is costing me even more. If I had just had a little more savings, I might have been able to work less and focus on school more.

Rachel

I would recommend that they research financial opportunities. Things such as attending community college for a year or to in order to get general education credits completed and think of housing options before leaving for college. Another thing I would recommend is that students socialize and take advantage of internships or student exchange opportunities.

Ashlee

I would suggest that you visit campus of schools you are considering on a day that works for you and your parents. Ask campus staff to schedule you to talk to people and colleges that you feel would be important for you to make your decision. Once you have made a decision and are a student experience all that you can. Take it all in and make the most of your time as a student both academically and within the campus community.

Melanie

Don't get frustrated with the endless search for colleges. There is a right college out there for you and don't be afraid to pursue it. There are lots of scholarships out there to help you accomplish your dreams, so just take the time to search for them.

Paul

Whatever makes the student comfortable. You'll know what the right fit for you is and don't fight your decision. Also, narrow the choices down. I would visit the school again just to make sure it is the right fit, but you will instinctively know. Parents should not have any say unless it is financially-based. The parent is not going to college, the student is. Students should try new experiences. High School and college are completely different entities. Enjoy yourself and don't let yourself get too stressed out. They say high school is the best four years of your life, believe me college is. Don't just party it up all the time, though. You definitely need to focus on your acadmeics. Be sure to balance both as best you can. Make sure that you are preparing yourself for you career too. So, if you can balance your future career, present academics, and social life, college will come to you. Never force anything, but don't just sit in your box.

patricia

listen to what your children want.

Chad

Tour Tour Tour! Make sure its a place you could see yourself living for 6 years tops.

Jeremy

Dont worry about knowing what you want to do when you first get there. There will be plenty of time to make those decisions.

Kyle

My advice to parents and students considering colleges would be, not to look for the place that will neccessarily provide the highest level of education, but look for the place where you know you can be happiest. I could have gone to much more prestigious universities than Kansas State University, but the environment here was warm and embrasive, as opposed to cold and self-centered, which was the impression I received from other universities I visited. As long as your degree is from a decent university, it is your failure or success in your career after college that will ultimately determine your level of success. Spend time on the campuses of the universities you are considering and go to the college that makes you happiest.

Sarah

The most important thing to do when choosing a college is to give yourself room to grow. The average student changes college majors more than once, and will change careers six or seven times after that. Choose a college and a class schedule that will prepare you for all the unexpected ways your life can change. Look for a school that is strong not only in your chosen major, but also in several other areas that interest you. Remember that when you walk across the stage 4+ years from now, you will be a very different person from who you are today. Choose a college that will support you through this transition. While in college, take advantage of the best your college has to offer. Take classes with top professors, even if they're not required. Find an extracurricular activity to be passionate about. Take time for electives; what seems unimportant right now might become your focus later in life. The college years are a time of dramatic change and growth. It's impossible to know where you'll end up. A solid educational foundation will give you the tools you need to succeed at whatever you choose to do.

Lance

There are so many questions that need to be answered when trying to choose a college. Is there a program that matches my career goals? Is it affordable? Will I fit in and make friends? These are just a few of the concerns of someone trying to choose a college. The first step in choosing a college is to talk with a school guidance counselor. Find out which schools offer good programs in your area of interest. These are the schools that you need to begin focusing on. The next step is to visit the college web site. Here you can find information on tuition and fees, scholarships, and financial aid. Also, the web site will give contact information for the different departments and organizations. Some sites even list on campus/off campus jobs. With all of the resources available, it becomes easier to map out a plan for paying for your education. Finally you need to visit the campus. This is the best way to know if you'll fit in. Talk to current students and get a feel for how easy it is to fit in. With these steps, you'll know which college is right. I did!

Paul

Visit the college on a regular day of classes and see how you like the enviroment. Be sure to take the tours as well.

Cameron

Make sure to visit many different colleges. Ask as many questions as possible. Evaluate the schools based on every criteria you can think of.