Kent State University at Kent Top Questions

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

Brandon

Take trips to the colleges first before commiting. Also research in terms of the undergraduate degree and also see if their grad school is worth it.

Daniel

I would advise students to use the resources available on campus and to open themselves up to a new experience. Opening up to a new community and becoming involved will help create a wonderful experience and make success easier to attain. I would advise the parents to support their student in their career choice, not pressure them to hard finacially, and encourage their success.

Brad

Im sure you have heard the saying "college is not for everyone". We as society are enduring a struggling economy and question, are things are going to get any better? The answer to this is desire, knowlege and commitment by hard working college students. Personally, I believe that college is for everyone. College is a place to grow, learn and develop a future for oneself. It is a time for exploration, enlightenment, and perseverance. In making the crucial decision to attend a college I believe one should follow their heart and make a personal decision that does not involve their friends, or parents. Find a school that appeals to you. Whether this may be a small, medium or large school. A diverse, liberal, or conservative school. Money should not be an option when choosing a school. Fill out finanial aid, apply for scholarships and everything will fall in place. After choosing your school do not be afraid of anything and plan for the future. Get involved, meet people, join clubs, talk to your professors! College opens a new chapter in life. YOU will be the one doing all the work, thus YOU should make all the decisions!

Kate

When you look at colleges, look into the tutoring and supportive programs for the students. While the first year or so can be fairly easy, the later years can get rough, fast. As long as there are plenty of support programs for students, and maybe a forgiveness program to let students make up for an unusually tough semester, they should do fine in their work.

Patrick

When looking for a college do not look solely at cost, location, and alumni. Look deeper into the campus. Seek out students that are attending and ask them how classes are or how the sports teams are or the fraternity/sorority situations. Keep in mind that no matter where you choose you will likely switch your major so make sure the school offers all of your choices. Keep a solid set of friends that you can hang out with on a regular basis, but don't exclude new people from the group. Get involved with any organizations that sound fun, but don't get so committed that you forget to do work. You can always stop going to group meetings with no problem, but retaking a class is a major hassle.

Paul

The advice I would give to parents and/or students about finding the right college is to visit as many colleges as possible while classes are in session. This gives the parents a chance to see where the student is going to be spending their time away from home and a chance for the students to see exactly what type of environment they will be participating in to choose the best college possible. During that college visit, make sure the student is aware of the extra activities that are available to them on and off campus that suits them the best, for example here at Kent State University; the recreation center, fraternities and sororities, and student run government positions are just a few of the opportunities available. Also, as stated in a previous question, make sure the student is practicing great time management skills. This will make help the student make the best of their college experience because they will have their coursework complete when it is time to have fun with a student organization on or off campus or to just socialize with classmates and friends.

Shekoda

My advice for students is to look at every option before making your decision. Don't settle for any one school just because you're afraid of not being accepted to another or your parents want you to go to that specific school. College is your experience and no one can live it for you. You don't want to be filled with regret because you realize too late that you chose the wrong school. Your experience during college is one that you will remember for the rest of your life. You have to be open to new experiences and ideas. You have to be willing to make sacrifices and sometimes that can be difficult but it all will work out for the best in the end and you never know, you may make friends that will last you a lifetime.

Erin

Finding the right college is always a struggle. Find what you love, and do it. Look for a school that will be strong in teaching you new and helpful material on that subject you love. Find a school where you can get involved right away. Participate, go to class, and find the school that will encourage you to do your best. Look for schools that are well-known for your concentrated area, but also look at schools that are not as well know. Look at the success of alumni, see where they got in their fields. Just remember that your college experience can be wonderful if you show an interest in it as well.

Michelle

I think one you should visit the college make sure you feel comfortable there. and to the parents go with what your kid says they are growing up and i know you want to protect them but you have to let them go just a little. If they say they found the right college listen to them. And to all the students college you will make the best friends that are better than your high school friends just saying you meet people that you feel like youve known all your life and you can be who ever you want to be if you want to be miss popular go for it if you want to be known as something that you werent in high school go for it! there is nothing you cant do at college have fun and always be safe and watch what is going on around you.

Jennifer

Make sure a student spends time at a college before making a decision. Students should tour and maybe even stay overnight to make sure the campus is right for them.

Derrick

Parents should respect their child's decision about what they want to major in for college. A student who is forced into a major by a parent isn't as likely to succeed, and college may turn out to be a negative experience for them. Whereas a student who knows what they want to go for, will be more likely to remain driven if they wish to succeed, and make college a positive experience. A student should make sure that the college they choose has a good program for their chosen field, and it should be something that has transferrable credits should circumstances change. The first college (or major) isn't always the best fit for a student, even if they were SURE it would be, so it is important that things be transferrable so that they aren't starting over with nothing to show. Parental support is also important within reason. Students should respect the opinion of their parents, and consider their feedback, but in the end, it's their life, and the ultimate decision and responsibility is on them to ensure a positive experience.

Rachel

Visit the school you think you are interested in. Talk with faculty at the school and take a tour of the campus. When you go to college, have a social life, but get the work finished as well. College is supposed to be the best time of our lives.

Antonise

Advice that I would giving students or parents about making the right decision is to make sure the college has the best program that fits you. Make sure the college fits your needs, for example food, housing, transportation, sports, employment, great professors and so forth. Also you want to make sure you have fun while getting the most out your education.

Melainie

I would visit the college for a weekend, not just a day to truly get the feel of the college. You need to visit with your parents and then with someone your own age so you can experience it fully. You will be on your own living in this place so this decision is ultimatly yours. Upon entering college I would immediatly get your books and wander around campus, find your classes so your not stressed the first day and so you know your way around. You will see people sitting around and find things to do. This also is a great indicator of a campus. Your first weekend at campus DO NOT GO HOME. I cannot stress this enough, I know its tempting but you need to go out and meet people this first week is crucial in the social department, you dont have homework yet so take advantage. This is not highschool you WILL need to study, winging it as you did in highschool will not work so study effectively so you can still have those friends. Both aspects are equally important in order to get through college effectively while making those lifelong friends everyone needs. Good Luck!

Rachel

Parents need to let their children make the decision on what college they want to attend and not let the parents' influence choose they school for their children. The school is not suiting the parents' needs, but the upcoming students' needs. Remember parents, your children are attending the school, not you. The school they choose reflects their personality, not yours. Future students, do not hesitate to ask questions to the attending students at any colleges about the different majors/programs, social life, and other activities around the school. This will give you a better perspective on the school and the student life.

Laureen

Some make choosing a college sound like the most important decision of your life. In some ways, it is. You can't be afraid to apply to schools that are Ivy-League, private, or extremely selective. The effort of applying to good schools, out of state schools, and exclusive schools may be intimidating, but in ten years, or even just one or two, you could be thanking yourself and everyone who helped you get into that school of your dreams; or you could be regretting not taking a chance. Choosing a major is important in college selection. You should research majors available across America, and all related majors. When you find one that suits you, or jumps out at you, then you can start selecting a school. Not all schools have the same majors; some won't even have the one you're looking for. That is why it's important not to be intimidated. There is support out there for everyone; even if your friends or family can't help, someone else can. College is what you make it. You can turn a new leaf, or better yourself in some way. Everyone's expirience is different.

Amanda

I would say go visit the school for yourself, don't let anybody tell you where to go to school at. Your going to be spending four years in colllege, make sure that you feel comfortable there and that it is the best fit for you as a student.

Hannah

Choosing a school is a difficult process. I know as a student in high school having all the choices in the world was scary. It is important to remember that college is about education, but also about the whole experience. I think it is important to meet many different people and learn about life rather than from a textbook. Remember that knowing what the campus or the dorms look like is not going to make a huge difference in the long run. Know what you want to do, know what the school can offer you both academically and non-academically. The most important things I learned in college had nothing to do with a classroom so just remember that you can meet amazing people in alot of places. Don't limit yourself.

Marti

Make sure they have the degree you want and a great program and a place where you can meet tons of great friends

Eric

Find some where that you are comfortable

Chalres

Look at all universities you even think you may be interested in. Look at all different sizes of universities as well. Don't get caught up in the "party schools" life because that will only hurt you later on in life. Don't ever forget that even though you may live away from home, you are still at school and need to put your classes first. But mainly, don't forget to have fun. Make the most of it. They say these are the best years of your life.

Gina

Look for a college that best suits your personality, but still challenges your knowledge daily.

Lashea

Work hard and focus. Go to class and pay attention.

Joseph

Really do your research on what school is best for you. Look into all of the different programs being offered and what fits you best. Don't just go somewhere because you got accepted or because you have a friend that has got accepted there. Do what's best for you!

Destiny

Have an idea of what you would like to major in before starting your classes. Sit down and find someone that has been through the program. This helps eliminate classes that you really do not need.

Ashley

In order to find the right campus to attend you need to tour/ visit the campus. You will get a feel for the environment where you might spend the next four years. Once you select a college you should live on campus in a dorm. This helps you meet new people and you find life-long friendships in your roommates. before starting your first day of class, walk to each of your classes so that you are not confused and late on the first day of classes. Once you are settled in to your room and are getting into the routine of your classes, you should apply for an on campus job. The reason that I suggest and on campus job over an off campus job is simple. On campus you not only interact with the people you work with, you interact with the whole campus! This is a great thing. At Kent State University many foreign students work on campus. You will open your mind more to different cultures and possibly learn new languages! There are many ways to make the most of your college experience. My advice is get involed with everything positive on campus that you can!

Hemal

N/A

Steve

Picking the right college needs to be a personal experience. Just because a bunch of your high school friends are going to a certain place, doesn't mean that school is right for you. By visiting campuses and talking to current students you can find a school that makes you feel comfortable. If you feel out of place at a college, your are less apt to want to go to class and get involved which could end up hurting your future forever really. Once you have found that perfect fit, GET INVOLVED! You can learn all the information in the world during class, but that doesn't mean anything if you do not know how to apply it. On campus organizations give you the ability to showcase your knowledge and abilities to your professors and professionals in the community as well. Thousands of young adults get their collegiate degrees every year, but the ones who already have a little bit of real-life experience are the ones who are going to excel. Get your name and face out there as soon as possible and don't be shy. You never know who you are going to meet next.

Jessica

When looking for the right college, it is important to know what you want. When i chose to go to Kent state it was my freshman year of high school. We had a job fair and the speaker for graphic design had stated how his company really took special notice in students from Kent State. So that is what i did, my first choice senior year was Kent. I am very happy with my decision, i feel at home at this school. I enjoy all of my classes and my teachers are all willing to teach us everything they know. It is the perfect environment for me to learn and get the college experience i was hopping for.

Daniel

I believe that the best way to find a college is to visit it. I had chosen another school to attend and I visited it. I did not have a good feeling about it when I was there. When I visited Kent State, I knew as soon as I stepped out of the car that this school was for me. Looking at the academics is also one of the most important things. Make sure that the school has the program that you would like to go into. Check if they are accredited or nationaly known. Picking the right college is one of the hardest things that a student/parent can do at this point in their lives, but once you see the campus and do your research, you will know that your choice was the right one.

Brittany

The best advice possible is to always do your best. Many students like to do the bare minimum around their sophomore or junior year. Senior year they will be regretting not trying their absolute hardest. Most importantly, remember that hard work always pays off. Another important factor in college is to remember where you came from, remember your values and your true friends. It is also vital to your social life to open up and be open-minded, talk to anyone and everyone. Learning and enthusiasm is contagious.

Brandon

Find one that you are comfortable with and that you feel you will be a good match for.

Wilson

Be involved, stay on campus your first two years and remember if things get tough, your family will always be there for support.

Renee

Friends will always be there for you, but the chance to go for what is best for you is not an option you will always be granted. School is very important to me because I understand it is the experience of a lifetime and probably some of the best times I will ever have in my young life. When you are choosing a school, be sure to pick the one that is right for you and offers what you are needing or looking for. Don't pick the schools that you're freinds are going to just so you can be close. Colleges are not so confined that you can't visit or keep in touch -- just be true to yourself and what you want and don't feel pressured at all. Follow your gut and your goals and pick the school that you feel is seriously going to help you get to where you want to be. Also, don't focus TOO hard on studies. Keeping up with academics is all well and good but don't forget to have fun and make friends - its all part of the learning experience too.

Justin

look at community colleges or sattelite campuses for the first 2 years as a way to save money and kids can be close to or at home during this time. Really helped me adjust.

Jason

Take your time. Choose the school that seems best to you and don't let anyone else influence your decision. Ask a lot of questions while your visiting. If you can't visit, find a professor in the program(s) that your interested in and e-mail them with questions you may have.

Allison

Students, choose a college that is comfortable to you and not just because it pleases your parents. If you are not happy with the school your academic standing will probably suffer.

Nicole

Do your research beofre committing to a college. Visit the campus, talk to the students about how they feel about their university. Compare caosts from surrounding schools, and make sure you get the most value for your money. Don't forget to aplly for financial aid and scholarships--many colleges have lists pages long of scholarships that are given away every semester!

Aimee

There is no harm in research. Many students I talked to went on tours to a variety of college campuses. If you know what you would like to do, then it narrows down your search tremendously. You have to find what's right for you. The best thing to do is go and get information. The more you know, the more informed you can be and can make a more educated based decision. I find it disappointing when people choose a college campus because it looks pretty or it feels right. This is only part of your experience. The real reason you are in college is to learn and take advantage of every academic opportunity that comes your way. Your college experience is what you make of it regardless of where you choose to go. To make the most out of your college experience you must work hard and know self disipline. You must make sacrifices, but still have fun a long the way. Just know everyday you slack off, someone is going to come up and pass you. You must be on your game at all times. It's a balancing act and only you can to master it.

Courtney

When choosing a college be sure to chose one that suits you and your interestes. Find one with an amazing staff that will be willing to see you as an individual and help you sort out your personal problems. If you have trouble with large classroom, choose a small, more personal school. BE INVOLVED! Join a club or an organization. Get out there and meet new people! They will make your life so much easier!

Ashley

The advice I would give is to just follow your own desires and not worry about impressing anyone else. The choice you make is an important one that you need to think about seriously. You need to be excited when you think about the school you choose and not dreading it. Every school has great things to offer, you need to find the one that best suites you, your lifestyle, and your career goals.

Allison

To find the right school for you, you must seek out many different schools. Take the time to go on tours and see what is out there. You may be suprised at the choices you have, and you also may be suprised that the school you thought you wanted to go to isn't really the best one out there for you. Ask as many questions as you feel necessary, because there is no such thing as a bad question. Once you believe you have chosen the right school for you, make sure to be outgoing and try to meet as many people as you can. When you know more people, it is easier to make the most of your college experience. It is also important to get involved at your college. Being a part of a group is a very gratifying experience, and it also gives you different opportunities during the day and evening. College is an experience that you can make or break. It is up to you whether or not you have a good colege experience, so enjoy it because it shapes your future.

Bethany

The Student and Parents really need to go visit a wide variety of schools. Do some research and narrow it down the schools you really want to go see. If you know what you want to study then research the top schools for your field of study. Some students have a hard time being far from home so if that's a problem it needs to be considered. Although being one of those students I would recommend being close enough to get home but far enough that you don't depend too much on going home. The Student needs to find their place at school and enjoy the experience!

Emily

As far as finding the right college, go with what you feel is best and fits you. If you feel right when you take a visit and it has a great program for what ever you chose to major in, go for it! By making the most of your college experience, get out there and join school clubs and become involed. This is a great way to meet new friends. Also go out with some friends and explore the area around your campus. You never know what kind of new places you can find to go eat or hang out at. One more piece of advice, do not overload your class schedule too much, make sure you leave some room for relaxation and fun.

Melissa

I would tell them to not rush. There are so many different types of schools out there. Go on as many college visits as you can and when you go, go during a regular school day. This lets you get the feel of how the school really is. Try not to base your decision on how much the school costs. There are many ways to pay for school. Once you find the school you like, go out and try to get involved. Most schools have many programs, so find the one that interests you. Once you do that the friends will just naturally come. If you are having trouble at first, give it time! I know many people that gave it one semester or a year and decided to go home. Believe me it gets better. It really is hard to adjust for most people, but by your second year you usually know where you fit in.

Rashonna

The advice I would give future parents/students about finding the right college is make sure its somewhere the students really wants to go. Don't go somewhere just because your parents want you too or your best friends/boyfriend going. Choose your college wisely because your going to be the one thats going to be there for four years or more. Also thats the collge your going to have to write on your resume' in the future and you want to be proud of the choice you choose not the one your friend or parent choose for you.

Amber

Explore all options when finding the right college. Going on college visits and getting a feel for the atmosphere will make it easier to find one that suits you best. Be sure to make sure they have plenty of options that tie in with your intended major, as well as looking into job placement after graduation.

Alison

"We need to ensure that our students think of their education as more than a means to the good life. It is our responsibility to make sure that they view their education as a means to make a difference..." -Tom Brokaw

Julie

VISIT the college you plan to attend, research what you want to major/ have a career in and make sure your school of choice has the program and credentials for the program in order for you to be happy there. So if the school is known for IT, you probably would not go there to major in fashion. Also, make sure if you pick a rural/city campus that you like that setting and are prepared to travel properly for that area and that you can afford to live as comfortably as you can. It is not fun to be stressed about money, and you probably still will be; however, save and be smart! Also, remember to have fun with this great experience! Good Luck!

Maggie

The advice I would offer to parents and their children when trying to find the right college, is to feel that the college they chose will fulfill their child's ambition. Every adolecent has the idea that college is about having a social life and living on their own. Although those are minor details in a college experience, however parents want to make sure that the college offers a good education for the major of their choice, and that resources are available through that university. Such as, financial aid, tutoring, security, and extracurricular programs. Those are the most important factors in choosing a college.