Lawrence University Top Questions

I would tell myself to take a deep breathe and relax! I can stress myself out, and all that does is cause high anxiety and wasted time. I would tell myself to stay calm and do the best I can because when you can keep yourself calm and controlled; you can do a lot and you can do it quite well. Self confidence is huge because the more you undermine yourself, and talk yourself down the less you will get done and most likely you will not do as well as you potentially could. so my advice to myself is: keep calm, do your best, and belive in yourself!

You're going to be happy. I know how anxious you are now about having to meet entirely new friends and worried you are about proving yourself academically. Everyone feels a degree of this and making friends just happens. Some of these friends are going to change your life and inspire you to be a better person. You decided to go to an academically demanding school, so be ready for late nights in the library, but always remember what you're learning is more important than the grade. With this in mind, you'll get the grades you want anyways. You'll also have the honor of being mentored by a few incredible professors, who will influence you to pursue a career in human rights advocacy. I know you're planning on going to medical school, but there's nothing wrong with changing your mind and you'll soon see how good of a writer you are and how this new career path is fitting. So, I'll leave you with this. At times, you're going to be stressed, sad, or scared, but far more often you're going to be challenged, inspired, loved, and most of all happy.

It’s true: college is hard. Nobody says otherwise, and there’s a reason. I’ve been there two years now and I can confirm. But I can also confirm that in some ways, college is much easier than high school. High school is a struggle to achieve a respectable GPA in many classes, not all of which deal with your favorite subjects, while applying for schools, maintaining extracurriculars, and surviving in a cut-throat social environment. College is entirely different. Sure, it’s a high level of academics – you’ll do a lot of work, with more expected of you than has ever been asked before. But you’ll love it. You’re going to be studying what you want, learning about things that interest you – all your choice. Everything’s a bit easier socially, too. In college you’ll make friends who care about you for who you are and what you do – not what you’re wearing or what parties you go to. So get ready: college is a bigger challenge than you’ve ever met before. But it’s a challenge you’re going to love – one you’re not going to want to give up.

If I could have the chance to talk to my high school senior self, I would stress the importance of implimenting solid study habits and entering college with an open mind. I was one of the high school students that never had to study to get straight As, simply showing up, doing the homework, and paying attention was enough for me. In college, I underestimated the amount that I needed to study and as a result, my gpa suffered for my first college term. If I could go back to senior year, I could convince myself the necessity of discovering which study methods worked best for me before I got to college. I also had the opportunity to live with an international student my freshman year - I was paired with a Vietnamese girl. Coming from a small town, I had never imagined the possibility of having a roommate from a foreign country, one who could be so different from myself. Luckily, it was one of the best experiences I had freshman year, although there was definitely a learning curve in discovering how to interact with each other. An open mind was key for that, and many other college experiences.

I would tell myself to focus on what I want and not get pressured by those around me. Sometimes the best school for you isn't the highest ranked, or the one that gives the most financial aid. You have to find out as much as you can about schools before you can make a decision, but you'll never know what it will be like until you try it!

I would tell myself to re-consider other career options instead of being contained to one path. Lawrence is an amazing school but it can be limiting as far as majors go so try not to box yourself in too soon. When you meet people in these new classes, don't assume they will be your friend right away because chances are, they are only concerned about their own individualized needs and not about you. Don't have such high expectations. Just live, enjoy, and don't forget to practice. :)

There are several pieces of advice I would tell myself as a high school senior. The first would be to get involved with activities you know you like to participate in, as well as ones that are unfamiliar. You may be surprised at what you find. Second, I would tell myself that college is a lot of hard work and long hours, and learning how to manage your time is one of the best things you will learn. Third, in making the transition from high school to college, I would tell myself to explore different subject areas and take advantage of opportunities to learn about other subject matters. Finally, I would tell myself that college goes by quickly and to enjoy the opportunities it provides.

Be ready to grow up and become an adult.

I would like to tell myself one probably cheesey but completely true statement that others repeatedly threw at me. "You will love it." At the time, I did not believe the countless parents, teachers, and students who threw this statement of trust at me. If I had truly took their words to heart, my whole attitude about college would have changed. The simple knowledge that someday after a bit of time I would truly love college would have made my transition much easier. I spend the beginning months missing home and trying to adjust to the different lifestyle college presented, looking for the light at the end of the tunnel that I was sure would appear with time. If I had taken the knowledge that college would definately be a place I would cherish spending time and love to take an active role in, my initial fears and doubts would have been significantly less than they were. I would have more activley engaged myself in activities and college life in the beginning, knowing this would lead to my enjoyment of my time at Lawrence. Just believing in the simple statement "you will love it" would have greatly effected my experience.

As a junior in college I have learned so much since high school and there is a lot I would tell my younger self, but the most important thing I would tell my younger self is that I can make a difference in the world some day. In high school I never thought it would be possible to make a difference in the world, that I was just a simple girl from a small town. But now that I have been in school I have realized that I am capable of making a difference with the education I am recieving from Lawrence University. I have been given opportunities from this school that will change my life and others lives forever. I will be going to Africa next year to volunteer at an orphanage to work with children that have disabilities and I can not wait to help them. I know that my younger self would have viewd this opportunity as something that seemed impossible but now I have made the impossible become possible and I will continue to make a difference in this world because of that.

As a high school senior, I’d tell myself not to be afraid. I was nervous to start college. I felt well prepared, academically, but not socially. I wasn’t sure that I’d make friends and that I’d feel like I found a place I belonged, but college has taught me that I’m not alone in feeling like this. I’ve had some wonderful conversations with my friends here about how they felt before college and it turns out—they felt the same way! College has allowed me to gain a much better sense of the human condition; there are people who think in similar ways as I do and who have relatable experiences. If when I was a high school senior I knew that my hesitations about change were common among most students, that could have eliminated a few nightmares about not fitting in at college and not succeeding. Fear is a powerful tool in our society; many intolerances stem from fear and to know that I no longer fear change is incredibly empowering.

I would tell my high school senior self to slow down and enjoy the moment. I would encourage her to consider Harper for a couple years in order to save some money and really consider what her dream career would be. Knowing myself at that age, I would have rolled my eyes at myself and done what I wanted. But, I would explain to myself that college is an amazing opportunity to learn about the world around you. I would also offer the advice to be kind to everyone and don't wear pajamas to class every day. I would encourage then me to keep reading for leisure and avoid coffee, tanning, cigarettes and sleeping with make up on your face. Finally, I would tell myself to be extra kind and patient with myself. Don't be in such a hurry to grow old, instead grow into the person you desire to be. I would encourage myself to keep with therapy and I would encourage myself to journal telling myself it's such a great time to really evolve and grow. Best of luck high school me!

Dear Chelsee, Right now, I know times are very stressfull with work and school and trying to decided what college is right for you, if you can afford it and what you should major in. But it all works out. You decided to start off small and go to a community college and get your generals because of the price but you find out what your passionate about and what school you want to go to! And now you have new dreams and accomplishments. Go on, remember to love yourself and your family and be careful who you trust. Life will go on even when you think it cant get any worse with family deaths and the hardship of life. Love, Your future self

All I would say is, "Live your life. Have no fears. Have no regrets. Be who you are and don't let anyone stop you from reaching your highest dreams."

Lawrence University has been essential to me discovering who I am - what I value, what I need from my life and the people in it, what my strengths and weaknesses are and how to best live life with them and despite them. I have also learned how to rely on other people and not just myself; in life it is a must, you cannot live this life (very well, anyway) alone. In addition I have learned how to better prepare for academic and artistic events, how to balance my social life with my academic life with my music life. That has been the most valuable lesson for me: learning how to balance and staying healthy all the while.

If I could go back and talk to myself I would definitely tell myself to work harder, be creative and get involved in more campus activities. I would also encourage myself to become a better writer,learn new vocabulary and frequently practice to write essay's. At Lawrence the conservatory is really important due to this I would suggest to myself that I start to re play the piano. This is very important as it is a creative way to express personal thoughts, it is also a very positive release from the studies. I would also advice myself to focus more on understanding and comprehending the knowledge that I learn in class instead of relying on the textbook. One important thing that I have learned that I would really say is important in college is to always spend the time that you have wisely. The most important piece of advise that I would give myself is to know what I want and ensure that I stick to it and work towards that goal. Also to know that studying is not all and being able to communicate well may be the difference between an great college experience or a terrible one.

If i could go back in time to talk to myself. The only advice I would have given myself is to stay on top of my loan applications and such because that is the only reason I'm not currently attending. I would tell myself to make sure everything is covered from top to bottom, to keep on the lookout for available scholarships and grants. That way I wouldn't have to worry about whether I would be covered. I would also tell myself to keep focused in the classes and get a goodnights rest and to study every chance I get because the classes are incredibly interesting and deserve my full attention.

I would tell myself to relax, and not worry so much about impressing other people. Very few people care to know anything about you beyond the superficial--everyone is caught up in their own little world, anyway. Instead of stressing over performance for others, give more attention to your own needs and causes. Be authentic, be honest, be genuine. Don't get caught up in meaningless fads and popularity contests. Such social stress adds up to nothing in the broad scheme of one's life.

I would talk to myself about handling the work load. Although I have done ok in college this far, it was hard for me to concentrate on my studies my first term. Also I would tell myself to visit college campuses before choosing one. When i was a senior I did not do this and I wish I had compared other schools campuses with the one I am on now.

Starting college is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming new experience. My friends all spent their first night at school getting to know each other and playing games. I ended up spending my first night of college falling asleep while watching a movie in my mother?s hotel room. More than a year later, my roommate still doesn?t let me live it down. I was so concentrated on not letting go of my pre-college years, that I missed out on what would have been a memorable beginning to my college life. I have found that we regret the opportunities that we don?t take more than the ones we do. If I could go back in time, I would advise myself, and any current freshman, to always live in the present. The four years of college go by faster than any others. Take as many opportunities as possible and don?t be distracted by fantasies or fears of the past and future. It would be a shame to get to graduation and realize you missed out on the last four years.

"Stop procrastinating!" would be the first two words out of my mouth, were I able to go back in time to see my old self, "Time ticks by a lot faster in college than it does in high school and time waits for no one or thing, including homework assignments and papers. In order to be successful in college, one needs to understand and master the concept of time and the concept of focus. Fun and free time will come all too easily afterwards. "Otherwise, there is no need to freak out about going to college. It really is as cool as other people make it sound. Just be yourself, set reachable goals, and be open to all the opportunities that await you. There are times when you will get frustrated. You will want to give up. You will want to cry and throw everything away. But be patient because there will always be good that comes out of it. Don't lose hope for yourself. Just take things at your pace and above all, love, believe, and create you."

First, identify what you want in a college as much as possible; for me, this included small size, small classes, friendly atmosphere, strong linguistic program, a study abroad option, and some kind of Christian fellowship. Then think about the colleges you're interested in, and compare them on each item. What programs are they known for? Do these line up with your interests? Are there extracurricular opportunities you are interested in? Then visit each campus, if possible, and interact with current students. Get an insider's view on the student life, campus culture, pros and cons of the school. Ask lots of questions. Don't be shy; most students are happy to talk about their opinions of the school, and you'll be able to tell whether or not they like it. Sit in on classes and talk with professors (or coaches, etc.) in areas you're interested in; find out what they've done and what students in that field typically do during and after college. Make sure you also get in touch with financial aid officers; your parents will appreciate it! You'll want to make an informed decision, so gather as much information as you can.

I would tell myself to have more confidence in my abilities. I attended a very academically challenging high school. It prepared me for college in ways I did not undestand at the time. Knowing what I know now, I woulf tell myself to avoid any anxiety about the college admission process because I would be well prepared for the academic part of the university experience. I would advise myself to spend more time making sure that the college I selected in a good match for me and that I will be a good match for the university.

One of the most important things in finding the right college is to actually visit the campus. No matter how much literature you read or how long you spend browsing the website, it is very difficult to get a sense of what life is like at any given college without actually seeing it for yourself. When you are physically on campus, you get an idea of what the atmosphere is like, how the students interact with one another, and the surrounding area. Once you have chosen, try not to dwell on your other choices- it might not feel right immediately, but if you spend all your time thinking about where else you might have ended up, chances are you will miss out on a lot of what makes your college special. Get involved as soon as you arrive. Don't be afraid to join a club on a whim; it may turn out to be a major part of the next four years of your life. Leave your door open and sit down at random tables in the cafeteria in the first couple weeks; everyone is equally anxious about making new friends. Make the most of the time you have!

look at all sorts of schools when you are searching - small, medium, and big. even if you think you know which type you would like to attend - see them all!

To find the right college, visit the campus on a non-visit day to get the real feel of the day-to-day, and do an overnight stay. You'll know the college is right for you because it has the right "fit". Often different schools will have equally nice cafeterias, swimming pools, and music practice rooms, but one will FEEL right for you. To make the most of yoour college experience, try the things you think you might like! You can always narrow down your interests. Don't go home for the first several weekends you're there. It may be hard, and you may be homesick, but it will get better only by getting more comfortable at school, not by avoiding it. Talk to you professors and advisors. They're often cool people with a lot of interesting knowledge and experiences, as well as understanding for being a student.

Follow your gut instincts. Prestige, cost, and parental desires won't amount to much. Only the time and experiences from your college will matter.

Don't choose a a university just out of prestige. Make sure the academic life suits you and that the social scene gives you a good vibe. No matter how much you might think you belong in a place because it has the right reputation, you'll be miserable if you don't jibe with it. I know tons of people who had a great time at undergrad, and a good handful that were much happier when they transferred. Take your preferences seriously.

I would tell students to find a college where you can envision yourself enjoying the next four years. Of course you need an institution that is academically notable! At the same time, you need a place with a healthy social life and extra-curricular activities in which you can later say that you were a part of something important. If you can find a well-rounded university, you are in excellent shape to thrive in the future.

Don't turn away from a liberal arts education because you think it's impractical. I got a job in business with a liberal arts degree, and got promoted faster than all of my peers who had business degrees. My college experience taught me to negotiate, to write well, to speak publically, and to think on my feet. After four years of a liberal arts education, I had no trouble learning financial accounting on the job. Many of my peers from Lawrence had similar experiences.

Ultimately, I believe that admissions people at the colleges are the best at figuring out what school you belong at. If you are not admitted, for the most part, there is a reason for it, and it is likely not really a good fit for you. That being said, when you look at all of the acceptance letters you get the choice is yours. I think it can be agreed upon that you are going to college to help you in your professional career not simply to have a good time or find a life partner. So that needs to be the primary consideration-- which school has the best program in the field you think you want to go into and has connections and alumni support? If you don't know what you want, then you need to make sure your school has a good counseling system. If you are away form home you are going to rely the most on your advisors. It is important that you have a voice and a face to your advisors. If you feel comfortable speaking honestly with them then you will never have a problem through anything from switching majors to transferring schools.

No matter where you go, you can make the best out of your experience

Pick the college that you can see youself being happy and challenged at. Keep your dorm room doors open when you're inside, because that's how you meet people. Be humble. Don't expect to be the brightest or most talented, because chances are, you won't be (even if you were the brightest or most talented in your state). Do as many activites around campus as you can. Talk to your teachers during office hours or after class. Try to date different types of people; avoid remaining with your high school sweetheart all through college (at least take a break from them and see what else is out there). Don't whine about how much work you have, because the person listening most likely has even more work to do but is keeping their mouth shut. Most important, enjoy every minute, because college goes by fast and you'll miss it when it's over.

Find the college that overwhelms you with how much you may learn there. Let that college also be one that is small enough for you to feel important, yet big enough that you don't feel trapped. Let this college also be filled with the types of people that you will get along with and learn from, not just in classes. Find a college with challenging professors who go above and beyond for you. Find a college that turns you on academically and socially, and never hinders either of those lives you lead. Don't let this college send you into bankruptcy, but remember, if the college is the right fit for you, consider sacrificing now for all the gain you will have later.

Parents-- Pay attention to your children from early childhood through high school. Appreciate their creativity. Get them excited about learning by challenging them, encouraging inquisitiveness and stimulating their curiosity. If children are given the freedom to find answers for themselves early in life, their experience with-- and thereby their understanding of-- the term "learning" will not carry competitive, laborious, and restrictive connotations. Parents need to acknowledge that their children are separate entities. Parents should be unbiasedly present to help their children realize any unique strengths and talents and to encourage children to pursue their niches. Parents can only give children the tools to make wise decisions: it is up to the children to use them. Post-secondary education is the trunk of a tree, and a student will succeed most when given the space and time to realize what branch they would like to climb out onto. There is a persistance and drive behind a student who has made the conscious decision that college is the right path for them. After this realization, it is fun for a student and their parent(s) to work together and find the college which fits the young scholar's needs and niche best.

Do not go somewhere just because you feel like you should-- explore and think hard about what kind of environment you will be happy and successful in. Do not go somewhere simply because it is the hardest school you could get into-- select a school based on how much you will be able to succeed there.

Take charge of your own education. Find a school that will foster your personal, academic and creative developments.

Look around and don't give up!

I would recommend that high school juniors research schools that they think are a good fit for them and organize visits to these schools. The campus visit is an invaluable opportunity in determining how a student will feel and do at that school. The student should pick several of these schools to which to apply. I would recommend starting the application process early and allowing time for revisions to applications. Because the application is the only means by which admissions committees can get to know a student, it is important that the application is well written. In order to get the most out of one's college experience, several things are necessary. First, the student must realize that he or she is there for academic purposes primarily. By succeeding in this realm, the student will have many opporunities open to him or her later in life. Secondly, it is important to get involved in various activities, but it is important to remember not to spread yourself too thin because these opportunities can become draining rather than a release. Additionally, by talking to tutors and professors, the high school to college transition can be much easier.

visit the campus, and try to talk to current students in the field you are interested in.

Make sure you visit overnight, and do your research on the school! Be sure to go with your gut instinct!

College is the chance to pursue you dreams, aspirations, and goals. It should allow and encourage you to get involved, and be active in the life and choices you make for yourself. Get involved and take advantage of every opportunity you get!

Do all of the research you can to find what schools look to be best on paper in order to follow your dreams. When all is said and done with the paper work: fafsa, applications, and reading, visit the top 5 or 6 schools. Stay on an overnight visit with a current student. From those visits you will find a place where you feel like you belong and will fit in without any trouble. It's hard to go wrong.

The most important issue in finding the right college is finding the one that fits. Most importantly is the student body. Is the typical student one who you could normally have a friendship with? Also, is the weather something that you are able to adapt to? Going to college is a huge transition, and it is beneficial for the student to minimize as many changes as possible. Either way though, no matter what college you attend, there are ways to make it work. Just because it is not your first pick or rather, your top picks, every college has its perks. Finding your niche is the biggest thing and if you think you can do that at a university, then you will do great.

Visit! And meet with the teachers you will be spending a lot of time with! I play percussion, so I had two lessons with the percussion professor and spent two visits observing him in his normal lessons and in his ensemble rehearsals. Once you are at college, take every opportunity presented to you, and remember that college isn't life, take a look outside your college bubble once in a while. Relax sometimes, and be open to new friends and new ideas.

To all parents and students, You should all look for schools that match the students' interests, plans, and motives. Otherwise the student will not feel comfortable in his/her school. For example, what if the student is a serious student who wants to become a physician. A school known for its parties will clash with the student completely. Such an environment could ruin his/her academic standing. Therefore, you should both look for school that matches. It is the best way to truly reap the benefits of the school you wish to attend. Do not attend a school just because of its prestige or its location. Look at what really matters to the student and encourage him to seek a school that will satisfy his interests. Once you both find an ideal college, seek out activities that interest the student from which he may learn. Using the previous example of the pre-med student, this student should join activities such as a pre-med association. Not only will it benefit him/her in his education, but it will give him/her the chance to meet people with similar interests which could grow into a meaningful friendship. In short, get involved.

I have very simple advice, namley make sure that you take time and stay overnight at the school you are thinking of attending. Also make sure that you talk to the students at the school, as they will be honest with you. Teachers, Advisiors, and coahces will tell you half truths and give you a sked view of what the school is really like.

Have fun, don't stress too much and just enjoy this time.

I would definitely tell parents to let students choose their own school because students will have to deal with it for four - or more - years. Also, what really worked for me when finding the right college was researching it through Princeton Review. What also really worked was that I got a chance to visit Lawrence and all other schools I applied to, and just saw the school for myself. I really encourage students to research the school through resources such as Princeton Review and U.S. News & World Report to discover the personality of the school, and after that, VISIT the schools! Visiting the school is so important. With that, I think if you research the school and find the one that is appropriate for your personality, your college experience will be great because it will feel right for you. It may become challenging, but it's your school, and through that I think you develop a certain sense of responsibility and honor, and so if you're at the right school for you, "making the most of the college experience" will come naturally.

The one thing that helped me most, being a hockey player, was asking myself "Would I like this school, or is this school a good fit for me if I don't play hockey here?" That really puts things into perspective.