Kennesaw State University Top Questions

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

Tiffany

Looking back I would tell myself to hit the books instead of worrying about what color prom dress I should get or what blush looks best on my skin tone. I would say "Tiffany you should apply for some scholarships", it would have been a lot easier I had done that. I can't regret what I did do or didn't do in the past all of this has been a learning experience and my educational journey has just begun.

jessica

If I could go back and talk to myself about college, I would remind myself that I had way more options that I thought. I would've persued other colleges in and out of the area. I would've probably done a bit more of college visits. I would tell myself to never limit what can be, to look around and never settle. Most importantly, I would've started a more extrict studying ethic.

Theresa

Theresa, I know this letter may seem unrealistic, but this is yourself from the future. I hope that you can take this letter seriously, because it involves some advice that can ensure you a smoother ride in college. When you apply to college, take into account whether you want to stay living at home or not. I would recommend that you stay home, because it will save you thousands of dollars. Study much harder for the SAT's, and take them as many times as you can. Advertising is not what you want to do. Save your money for certification classes and tests or else you will be applying for additional loans (you do not want that). Do not register for 8am or saturday classes unless you have to. Do not take a science class or rather two sciences classes in a summer or mini semester. Ratemyprofessors.com is your best friend, some professors will effect your grade so choose wisely. The little things add up, like homework, attendance, and quiz grades. Make sure that you are not avoiding a homework, just because you don't feel like it. Take hand written notes to stay awake in class. Your welcome.

Aba

I would tell myself to not be afraid to ask for help when i need it. College is not going to be easy so i should get all the help from my professors and tutors. I should try to make new friends and get out of my comfort zone, college is the best place to make friends and expand my social life. Lastly, I would encourage myself to join clubs not only to add variety to my resume but to make a lasting impression on people. I would join clubs that help the community and those that are struggling to get by.

Katlynn

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would stress to myself to go into college with an open mind and to get involved as much as possible. Experiencing new things will be the key to my success in school, and I should take advantage of this opportunity because this will be the most eye-opening adventure I will ever get the chance to explore.

April

Search for clubs and honors societies! I had no idea until very recently that there are so many of them, and now it's too late for me to join some of them, which is really disappointing. Even if you're not interested in getting involved with anything, I still urge you to take a look at all of them, since one day you may decide you do want to become more involved.

Karen

Get some advice and counseling on financial aid and taking tests for credits rather than taking the class. You aced algebra in high school; you could probably exempt that class with a test. Don't get discouraged by "things," because this will only take four years if you just focus. That low-paying job you have might seem like all you'll ever need, but in the future, the four-year degree is going to be essential. Unless you always want to have little to nothing besides time, just stick with it!

Jaime

I transferred to my alma mater after having completed two years at my local university in which I played NCAA basketball. The transition was a very emotionally dynamic time in my life. I would tell my high school self the following: "I understand you have athletic aspirations. Your focus is commendable, but I encourage you to soak up the little lessons that sport can teach, so that, in the event that your plans are cut short, the 5 am workouts, the 2-a-day practices, the in-your-face coaches, and the competitive teammates, all prepared you to grind through engineering school's workload, to not feel intimidated by demanding bosses, and to effectively manage colorful personalities in team settings. Having said this, volunteer a little, date a little, party a little, and when you're 21, drink a little. Your current goal oriented mentality will get you where you want, but be multidimensional incase life throws you a curveball. And wash your dishes after every meal. Those things pile up exponentially! Tell your roommates!"

Lonny

"Lonny, I would advise you to further your education as quickly as possible. In the current economy, education is everything. The doors are open to those who have a degree or technical degree. Besides, if you wait, the tuition costs are only going to go up along with the cost of living. On top of that, you can also better achieve your dreams with a greater education. "I admonish you to be involved in your local communities and to seek out adventure. Take risks and try things that scare you, because you may find you enjoy them. Your community is your 'extended family'. If you create fellowships with your neighbors, you can create bonds that will follow you throughout your life. "Lonny, you need to work out while you're in school, because that 'freshman 15' is only the start. Be active. Seek out every activity that college offers and be involved. Get the most out of college. These years can be the years that define what you become in the future. Spend your days wisely and work hard."

Lindsey

Lindsey, Please, listen when I tell you that school is about more than your GPA. Although you strive to do well, it is also about the learning experiences outside of a classroom. You'll be surprised to see how much more you will get out of college than just a college degree. You will find who you are, who you aim to be in the future and numerous life lessons and memories along the way. Your education can be more than keeping your nose in a textbook. There are clubs, community services to get involed in and so much more. You have to be open to everything thrown your way, but keep in mind that you must stay focused too! You have goals and you're already headed in the right direction. You're employed by a dealership who is more than interested in keeping you for a very long time. They are pushing programs your way in order to train you and get you right into a management position! Everything is going to work out for you! Have fun with your education but stay focused and you will reach a great position in the business field! Good luck!

Mary

I would tell my younger self to take college seriously, it is four years that will change your life. It is important to study and work hard in your classes to get good grades, but it is also important to have fun with your friends. In my years in college I have learned that it is vital to have a balance between your acadamic and personal life to succeed.

Kabrina

If I could go back in time, I'd tell myself that college is alot of work. I need to work hard to acheive the goals I have set for the future. College is much tougher than highschool, and the freedom only makes it harder

Angela

I would tell myself not to take high school so lightly because without an education you may as well be dead. I would also tell myself that when I go to college, to be serious about it so I can finish in a timely manner. College is fun but at some time you have to get away and study your butt off. Get all of the A's and B's you possibly can because when the C's come around they won't weigh your GPA down so heavily if you have a lot of A's and B's to cushion them. There will be times when homesickness will make you want to quit and go home but you can't because there is nothing there to go back to. Besides, the look on your mom's face when she sees your diploma in your hand will be worth all of the heartache and pain.

Jasmine

They should know to NOT schedule a class for Friday because most students party on Thursday nights. If they already know their major, they should go to the website for the college for that major and look at the suggested detailed schedule. They also should know that during the winter, Kennesaw can become increasingly cold, so it would be very smart to rack up on all the winter clearance sales before they come.

Amber

It's really not that bad and really not that hard

Shaghayegh

Dear Shaghayegh(Rose), I hope that you are rested and excited for your high school graduation! I have traveled in time to give you valuable advice that will lead to your future success as a college student. First, know that there will be many upcoming distractions; you ought to work hard and remain focused on your academics. I would suggest that you spend limited time on Facebook, watching television, or socializing with friends. Instead, I advise that you spend the majority of your time learning in study-groups, reading textbooks in public areas (you concentrate better this way), and sleeping at least eight hours daily. Second, I encourage you to write “To-Do” lists each day; this will keep your duties organized because there are many events to keep up with – it is easy to drown in a workload without structure. And third, become involved in clubs that pertain to your future career (dentistry) and volunteer at various events to give back to your community. Although receiving good grades in your courses is very important, it is also critical for you to become knowledgeable and experienced in your desired working field. Continue smiling and working hard! Yours truly, Rose

Haley

If I could go back to high school I would tell myself not to take time for granted. For we never know what life can bring us. I would tell myself to cherish every moment that I have with a dear friend, because that friend may be miles away from you during college. Learn to study! If you don't study in high school, you will regret it in college. Appreciate all of your free time. Free time is something that comes sparingly to a full-time student. Between finals, constant studying, and always on the go, your "free time" consists of the time that you lay down at night and close your eyes for a few hours. Always remember who you are and be true to yourself, for you never know the people you will meet along the way. Be determined and find strength to accomplish tasks within. Don't rely on your parents forever, you will have to grow up at some point. Love and cherish the things that you have and never froget those that helped you along the way. Thank your teachers for all that they do, for they too want to pull their hair out.

HYEJIN

Plan ahead, eat right, get organized, speak up in classroom, do not go to party that much (study hard!!)

Amy

My mentality during my last year of high school consisted of a desire to be finished, an excitement to meet new people and a fear of not being accepted or not being able to afford where I truly wanted to go to further my education. Now that I am in college at a school that I never planned to attend, without any friends that I accumulated during high school and with more work than last year, I see that my motivations were all wrong. Meeting people in college that remind me of being around my high school friends is hard, and takes time. I never knew I would miss the security of not only the friendships in high school, but the consistency of the academic workload. If I could tell myself a few things looking back on last year, I would say to enjoy the moments as much as possible, and work hard, work harder so you can be at the school you dream of. Always be pleasing in any situation you are in, people will remember you for your positive attitude. Lastly, take every outcome as a blessing, even if it is not the way you wanted it.

Thea

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, the biggest piece of advice I would give myself is to take education more seriously. After one year of college I stopped attending because I either had to quit my job or quit school, and the bottom line was that I needed money to pay the bills. Looking back, I should have stayed in school. At the time I was living at home and my dad for my necessities. Now, 7 years later, I wish I could go back and change my priorities. A year ago I decided to stop working and focus solely on school, unfortunately by this time federal financial aid cut me off and my dad passed away so I don’t have a home and financial assistance to lean on. If I had stayed in school the first time around, I could have already been done and wouldn’t be struggling trying to pay for school. So, if I could go back in time I would tell myself to stay motivated and to continue school, because ultimately a college degree gets you much further in life than a retail job.

Arturo

I would tell myself to retake the ACT, that way i would have gotten a better score and maybe gotten into a better school. Be prepared to stay awake all night studying for a test.

Zoe

The summer before I went to college, I was terrified. I went to a very small high school and hated leaving home, so I didnt have the faith in myself that I should have. I thought my homesickness would overtake me when I got to school and that I wouldnt be able to settle down easily. On the contrary, I felt amazing when I got there. I immediatley connected with people and found a home. If I had known this would occur, I could have spent my summer getting excited instead of being depressed. Once at school, however, I found myself settling in almost too quickly. I closed the doors to other relationships that I wish I could have cultivated. Thus, I would advise incoming college freshman to keep the doors open always. Also, it is important to keep an open mind to new social experiences. Forget about what you said you would "never do" in highschool- now is the time to test your boundaries and figure out who you really are.

Lauren

I remember thinking that I knew everything that I was and was not going to do in college, I was going to do well in class, work and get into my career as fast as possible. I was not going to join any type of sorority, play soccer or do anything that may take away from classes. I was 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} focused on getting in and getting out. And while I still want to get my degree in just 4 years, I have realized that there is so much more to college than just classes and working. If I could go back in time and tell my high school self anything it would be to not assume you know everything and enjoy the time you have! I would tell myself to say yes to any opportunity you get and don't judge anything until you have tried it! If I would have stuck to what I thought I wanted in high school I wouldn't have made the friends I have and I wouldn't have the experiences and memories that I do, and knowing what I know and all the cool things college offers, I wouldn't change a thing!

Emily

Remember that the professors and faculty are all there to help you succeed. The want you to do well. Never be afraid to email a professor with any questions. They're always happy to help as much as possible and they appreciate seeing that you're an interested and involved student who does more than the bare minimum. That and don't be afraid of used textbooks.

Allison

Don't stress out about the money and new-ness of it all. It is going to work out, and it is so worth it!

Abbie

Doing college as a young person right out of high school with no other responsibilities in life is the easiest way to achieve your goals. Appreciate the opportunities that you are given and take advantage of all life has to offer. If you do not, then by the time you realize the merits of what you had and did not take advantage of will be a lot harder to achieve. Now, 20 years after graduating from high school, I am finishing college while working full-time, raising two children and being a wife. Attack college with motivation, enthusiasm, and always put 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} into everything you do. Enjoy everything that college has to offer both academically and socially. If you don't, when you return to college as an older adult, you will not have the time to participate in the social aspects of college nor feel comfortable to participate even if you had the time. Absorb everything your professors and counselors tell you like a sponge. Take all of information, opportunities, and knowledge you gain into the real world to set yourself up for success and happiness.

Robert

Step up your study habits. There are going to be a lot of demanding classes that you're gonna have to work hard at. Some of your room mates are going to be awesome, but others well be assholes. You'll make some friends, but not many are going to be long term friends. Mostly they'll just be aquantences, nothing more. You're going to get frustrated, but don't let it get to you. Some classes are going to have you reading so much you won't have time to read on your own (just a heads up). It's life, but you already know life sucks, but you gotta roll with it. You're gonna want to give up at times, but just stick with it, by the time you're my age you're almost done so don't stop dude. You got this.

Stephanie

The best advice I could give myself as a high school senior would be to enjoy my freshman year of college and get as involved as possible. However, keep up with your school work because in college it matters what your grades are and it's better to have a better GPA than the most fun. College is a major cultural shock and takes some adjusting, but for the most part I would just say to enjoy this time because it flies by and as ready as I am to be done with college I will certainly miss the lifelong friends I made and the fun I had while I was here. Soak it all in and have a blast!

Cassandra

Since I have been at East Mississippi Community College, I have grown in my faith with God. Attending this school has made a difference in my life because of the way it has opened my eyes to how many students are on the wrong path. As a result of this, I have decided to dedicate the majority of my life to being a missionary and trying to demonstrate the way to live. I also play softball at EMCC and it has helped me to grow so much more as an athlete. The coaches truly strive to make a difference in our lives and not just use us to win a few games. There are so many things that this school has taught me that I will take with me to the next stage of my life. It has been a life changing experience in so many more ways than just my education. East Mississippi Community College has also given me the time to take classes that are required while also giving me the time and space to dig deep and figure out what I really want to do for the rest of my life. I will never forget this place.

Jackie

Though my college experience has only just begun I have already taken much from it. I currently work a minimum of forty hours a week with a high chance for over time. This means I do not have a lot of spare time for anything, including course work. I have had to learn strict time management and planning so that I am able to fully complete as well as review the work I am doing for my classes. I have to juggle many responsibilities, all of which have to be completed to the best of my abilities. Despite no longer being able to coast through my days I am finding quite a bit of enjoyment in tackling all of the tasks before me. I feel as though I am learning what it is to truly be an adult.

Pam

By attending Kennesaw State University I have learned what I can gain from working hard and staying dedicated. I entered KSU as a "non traditional" transfer student; married with two kids. Although I am normally among adults much younger than me I never feel misplaced. My instructors have treated me just like any other student; which for myself means relearning things I have forgotten since being in high school. I have had to take refresher courses in math and writing in order to keep up with the adults that have entered KSU straight out of high school, however every one of those class have helped make me a better student and person. Both of my kids want to also attend KSU so I remind myself everyday that I am not only setting an example for them, but I am also proving that I can and will do whatever I put my mind to, just like they can do.

Brittany

My college experience has been diverse and highly educational. I have received excellent education, while not feeling overwhelmed by class schedules and study-time. Many of my professors have been friendly and helpful, as well as available to assist me if I am struggling. Through Kennesaw State University I have learned how to study the proper way, manage my time properly, and set priorities.

Djeneba

I learned a lot about the world, the economy of the world and how valuable helping others is. I also learned to be a team players and a critical thinker. I am more creative and can debate on any issue.

natalie

I have experienced the full college experience at Kennesaw State University. Although I have a child, I still feel like a college student at my school. There is always something going on at campus. There are bake sales, music playing loudly, students playing instruments on the walk ways, and it just has the overall college feel. My university is large but has a small school feel because the classes are a decent size. This experience has been so valuable to me because I learn so much more from my teachers and their lectures than I could learn from any book or any online discussion.

chinelo

I have learnt from my college experience that in order to become the person I want to be tomorrow, I have to put in the time, effort and hard work required. I also learnt that time management is the key to success. Adjusting to college life wasn't easy for me at first but with time and help I was able to balance everything out. Attending college has been very valuable to me because there are so many things I have learnt in just a small amount of time. I have taken the first step in achieving my goal to becoming a doctor by going to college. I would not have accomplished anything or come this far without education. I am on the road to discovering myself, and being in college offered me many opportunities and guidance towards finding out who I am and what I want to be in the future. Knowledge is power, and that is the most valuable lesson I have learnt so far in this little time. No knowledge acquires, no matter how small is ever for waste, and I look forward to learning more life lessons as I go through college.

calli

I was able to learn more than academic skills, but also life skills. I learned about who I was and where I wanted to go in life. My faith was tested and became stronger. I met friends who challenged me to be better and supported me through difficult times. I was able to realize the things that were truely important in life. I was tested on more than academic material, but also as a person. I was challenged to question political beliefs, religious beliefs, and values. I never felt threatened by being pushed to question my beliefs, but in fact appreciated the opportunity. By questioning my beliefs, I was able to understand how I formulated these beliefs and how they had shpaed my life thus far. Many people never get this opportunity to understand the way they think, and the reasons behind their thought process. Kennesaw State prepared me for a successful career, and successful personal life by challenging me to discover who I am.

Alexandra

I have met a lot of new people, learned a lot of new things, and learned great life lessons through college courses and roommates.

Rondell

Kennesaw State has helped me to further my education. Its been valuable for me to attend this institute because it is my first step to get to medical school.

SPENCER

During my time at Kennesaw State University, I have learned to be self sufficient. I have learned that, generally speaking, professors and classmates do not care if I pass or fail. It is up to me and me alone to be responcible and perform to the best of my abilities. I had to learn this the hard way I'm afraid, but I am all the better man for it. While my college experience wasn't and still isn't everything I hoped it would be, I am greatful for the experience and personal insight that I have gained from my time there. I hope that I will be able to make the remainder of my time in college what I want it to be. I also hope that any further insights into my understanding of the world will be as valuble as those I gained during my first year.

Suzanne

My college experience has been really great. It has been so good getting to devote my time to working on my future. I have met incredibly interesting teachers and students. Not only have I benefited from the learning but I have also learned a lot about how to work with others.

John

I come from a family where education is highly valued. Therefore, my college experience has been one of high expectations. I am always competing with my family members to achieve the very best. Thoughout my experience in college, I have taken away many skills, that will help me along the way to being the best i can be, and among these, the most valuable piece of knowlege is the ability to work hard and still have fun. I am working towards attending law school, so with that goal comes the workload associated with legal studies. I have always been interested in Government, and now I am totally immersed in it. One thing that sets Legal students apart from others is that you have to be totally commited to the subject and to the profession. When I start studying the law, it can become dry and sometimes mundane, but I am truly interested in the subject, so I always find joy in reading and studying the different cases. I have talked to many Law students, and the most important skill that needs to be mastered is the ability to find joy in all you do.

Cnee

From my college experience I have learned how to balance and succeed. I have had to work to put myself through school and quickly learned to take advantage of everything my school had to offer. My school has helped me not olny with my job search but also helped me learn what career option are available to me. I have built lasting friendships with the people in my classes and others I meet randomly on campus. Kennesaw has been valuable to me because they helped me develope myself and I feel that I am equipped with the tools and knowledge to go into the world and succeed.

Taylor

So far, I have recieved a good education and learned a lot for only my frist year here. It is a lot of hard work, and it takes some getting used to, but by attendign KSU I have gotten the full college feel for life. I lmoved up here from Saint Simons so I'm not one that's able to go home every weekend. I have had to learn to adapt to my surroundings alone and start a new life here on my own. I believe it is valuable to attend college because without it, you can't really get anywhere with your life in America. America is all about education and success, and to get there, you NEED college.

Carissa

I have gotten invaluable hands on experience that will help me once I enter the workforce. I have also learned how to work with a team and communicate better with hours. My college experience has helped add stability to my life and has taught me responsiblity. I also have found three great mentors in my adviors and another professor I had for a class. I have not only heard the information and memorized it, but I have retained it. I feel I have learned many valuable life lessons at my current school, Fox Valley Technical College.

Kristan

Freshman year, I spend long days in my dorm unearthing, defining, and embracing the seed of my individual person. In my first brave moments entirely independent I discover a self to grow from. Sophomore year, I sprout deep roots of knowledge, friendship, and life lessons, which, stretch and explore across my college campus. As a junior, I grow limbs reaching for lofty dreams. Now I know the direction I am meanty to grow and am confident I will soon see the fruits of meaningful work. With each day, each ‘A’, and each professor noticing my astounding growth sprout new leaves of opportunities. My college experience changes like an oak, deeping roots, growing wider, and, like the rings of tree, you cearly see my maturity. I proudly show how I worked through knots as an example that all struggles are worth the end product. I happily remember each flourishing summer. I continuously grow stronger, more noticed , confident and respected. The tiny seed planted my freshman year grew into a lasting legacy of my achievements, dreams, memories, and passion for knowledge.

Kirsten

I have obtained a lot of knowledge through my experience in college so far. I have learned how to manage my time and money, as well as learn how to meet new friends and risk in new situations. It has been very valuable to attend college because I want to further my education and future oppurtunities by working hard and learning more. I have had the oppuriunity to grow as a person, meet new people, and learn new things while in college.

Kevin

I have obtained a different view of the world. Being an anthropology major along with my study abroad in Mexico, I have learned to accept other cultures in a way that I didn't understand in high school. I believe I have made a good amount of friends for neven having been in a frat and I am hoping I keep these friends after I have graduated. I have also learned not to take things for granted. The HOPE has given me a wonderful opportunity that others can hardly imagine, and I am thankful everyday that I am getting the learning experience that I am. I would recommend my school to anyone that is not a party animal, is serious about their studies, and wants to experience a moderately calm college environment. Sure its college, and there will be parties and mayhem here and there, but it is not what campus life revolves around. They have great club sports and a wide variety of teachers, most whom I would say are great and passionate about what they do. I have enjoyed my college experience.

Aisha

I have learned a lot about the world and myself in general. I have gotten to meet a lot of new people and learn about many different cultures.

David

In the first two years of high school, I had no forsight or understanding of my future. My grades suffered as a result of my ignorance. Upon applying to twleve schools for prospective college admissions, I was accepted into two; the last two choices on my list. Naturally, I was much less enthused about venturing off to college than I had been before receiving those ten rejection letters. I knew there was no question as to whether or not I was going to school, but I immediately set my sights on transferring. Regardless of my less than ideal educational situation, I have learned a lot through my college experience thus far. I have learned to appreciate diversity; my high school was a small, majorly white public school in which everyone was similar in numerous ways, yet here in college I have seen so many different kinds of people with such diverse ideas. Upon encountering individuals with ideas varied from mine, I have learned to open my mind and appreciate people for who they are, whether I agree with them or not. Lastly, I have grown to appreciate sound study habits unlike those required in high school as they foster knowlede.

Christopher

College is more knowledgable than high school was. You have professors who express their honest opinions in their teaching. You also have the students who invest their time and money into one of the most important documents in life, a college degree. I have learned more in one year than the time period from kindergarten to 12th grade. I know more computer software (Mac and Adobe), more skills, etc. You also have access to more educational services than an average public school would have. It is very valuable to attend, even for my fellow senior citizen classmates!