Lee University Top Questions

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

Erin

To go to whatever University interests you. Don't let any person influence your decision to choose your college. Choose the college that you want to be at and where you feel most confortable. Also, to remember that college is expensive, don't waste any money making crazy decisions.

Sarah

Senioritis is contageous, so keep graduation your focus. Even when you get accepted into a college , keep your grades up because finishing what you start is important. I know you want to be cool and hang out with everyone, but you will all go your own way and all that's left is what you set yourself up for. Make new friends but keep the old. Listen to mom when she says to make your bed and clean. Learn how to coook more than Easy Mac and Ramen Noodles so when you are out of meals for the week or you are sick without mom, you do not starve. Money doesn't grow on threes either, so don't buy new underwear and socks when your laundry is pilled high. Learn to do loads of darks and lights and don't even try to mess with bleach. You will run totally off adrenaline from being away from home and making new friends freshman year, but for heaven's sake get sleep. Who will be the cool one when you fail out of school? Study more than the night before a test and complete your homework on time! Learn to LOVE.

Katie

Listen to your parents!! Take high school physics instead of choir or office aid. Take the hard teacher now while you have less responsibilities, because it will make the second time around (in college) a bit easier. Although high school seems hard, college is comletely different. High school teachers baby you. College professors know what it takes to succeed, so they push you harder. There are not many second chances, so you have to be organized and on time. Also, apply for as many scholarships as you can! It is not fun to try to work off those excessive college bills while trying to get used to college life. The essays will have been worth it when you don't have to work like crazy to do your homework and keep up with two jobs. Another thing: start healthy eating and exercise habits early. If you aren't used to making a daily work out a priority when your day is less full, you definitely won't find yourself in the gym with a college workload on your mind. It is important to have this habit since it will reduce your stress levels (and your growing waistline!) Good luck!

Stacey

If I could go back in time and offer advice to myself as a high-school senior, I would tell myself to make smart descisions, never under-estimate myself, and do not be afraid to trust people who have proven they can be trusted.

Jennifer

Don't worry so much. God will provided you with everything you may need and more. You will meet people that you will call friends. College life will be so much better than you were expecting.

Lindsey

Make sure the school fits you in every way. Get involved in something that you will be able to be yourself and have the best experience possible!

Adrienne

Choosing the right college can be one of the most difficult and important decisions someone ever makes. It can seem overwhelming at times. I believe a few factors are the most important when considering colleges. First, look at the overall climate of the college; how do they treat academics, social activities, cultural beliefes, and extra curriculars? You need to find a school that has a similar balance in their approach to what you most enjoy. If you don't, you will feel like a fish out of water and will not enjoy your college experience nearly as much. Your school choice needs to have the academic programs, extra curriuculars, and social scene that YOU want. Next you should look at the resources available there; does this school have what you need to succeed and be comfortable? Finally look at cost; are you able to handle the expenses or do they offer scholarships/aid to help you? No one wants to constantly worry about finances throughout college. After you choose your college, make sure you wholeheartedly involve yourself in what attracted you to it in the first place. Use what you love to make your college experience the best possible.

Christy

I would suggest that students not neglect looking at a variety of colleges--big and small. You never know when a lower choice on a list of colleges can become the one you fall in love with. Also, students should try to visit colleges before applying if possible. What you see in a brochure or catalog isn't always what you get. I took my own advice, and I am currently a student at a university that I love!

Sarah

I would advise students to start planning early and to make a list of things you want in a school. Prioritize them, and don't settle for less. I encourage students to visit more than one school to ensure that the school you pick not only fits you, but also that it is the best environment for you socially and academically. Compare schools, it provides good insight to what you prefer. Lastly I would tell students it is okay to change your mind. I would advise parents to be supportive in the college choosing process; let your children explore and research even if you don't like the school this is a big decision and they need your unconditional support.

Emily

The best piece of advice I can give to a student, is make the college experience uniquely your own. This is the one time in life when it is ok to be selfish, because choosing a college is truly all about you. Education is so important, so its imperative that you know that the faculty and administration are committed; not to budgets and numbers, but to you. I would encourage you to visit the school and ask the students about their experience. They will be the most unbiased people on campus, and will give you the clearest picture of that schools strengths and weaknesses. When it comes to making the most of your college experience it is important to leave all preconceived notions at the door. Not everything will be as you expected, but if you have an open mind you will discover things about yourself that will surprise you. Be open to meeting new people, because your peers are truly worth knowing. And get involved, because learning doesn't only happen in the classroom. Remember that you are at college to get an education, but that this is your life now, and your responsibillity to live it.

Andrea

My biggest piece of advise is to wait a few years before attending college. I see so many students who struggle greatly with trying to figure out who they are and who they want to be. This struggle, coupled with the normal stresses of attending college, is very discouraging and confusing for a lot of students. I also see students who start college and change majors three or even four times before they determine what they are interested in and what they want to study. This can be frustrating and very costly. Spending some time working and learning who they are outside of high school can really help students have a more stable entrance into college. I would suggest even looking into internships in different fields to help determine what they would like to study. I have also found that students who enter college directly from High School don't fully understand the differencees and don't know how to find their purpose in such a new and different environment. Additionally, I believe with a few years in between high school and college a more mature foundation is established and students can better balance their personal, social, and moral standards.

Sarah

No matter what school you go to, you need to be able to be comfortable just being you. If you can't be yourself at a school, then it's not the right one. That would be my biggest bit of advice to give anyone on how to make the most of your college experience. Just be yourself and things will work out. Don't waste years of your life pretending to be someone other than who you are. You are who you are for a reason, and if you're busy pretending to be someone else, how will that reason be fulfilled? Never change who you are for anyone. Because who you are is the greatest thing you could ever be.

Sarah

Make sure the college you attend is either in your budget, or the school is willing to work with you on payments. I suggest starting at a local community college to get general core classes out of the way. That way you pay less for the first couple of years and you get into the college mindset while staying at home until you are ready. Then, when you get to the Four-year college destination, you won't have to be there as long and you'll already be two steps ahead of the gang.

marty

I would suggest a visit when classes are in session and spend time visiting the professors and campus. Let your heart guide you.

Amy

What helped me find the perfect college was a class I took senior year of highschool. In this class I determined what size of school would suit me best, what distance from home would be easy to handle, and what denomination/religion affiliation, if any, would help me grow spiritually along with my academics. Once I knew what I was looking for, there were only a few options. I visited these schools and fell in love with Lee University. After arriving at school, I did think friends would arrive at my door. This was not as easy as I had imagined. I made my best friends and felt the most at home at Lee when I finally got involved in extra-curricular activities. I helped start a new girls' Greek Club on campus, along with singing in a choir and mentoring academic probation students. It was only after this that I knew I was in the right place. I would advise any new students to look at the options of activities and find ones that seem interesting to them. If you put enough time and effort into at least one thing, your school will quickly become home.

Camden

When finding the right college, it is important to know who you are and what you want out of your college years. You have to take certain factors into consideration, like size of the school, location, cost, faculty, student body, etc. Make sure you are picking a school with the academic program that works for what you want to do with your life and has faculty that can foster your academic growth. To make the most of the college experience, remember that college is more than books, grades, and studying. It really is the best four (plus) years of your life! While the lessons you learn in the classroom will no doubt prepare you for your future career or graduate school, it is the lessons you learn outside of the classroom that will stay with you and really impact the person you become. When you graduate, you should leave a different person than you were when you entered. And this change comes from getting involved on campus, making relationships with friends and professors, and pouring yourself into causes and activites that you care about. College is about become who you are and deciding what makes you you.

Jennifer

Take college seriously. You never want to look back and have regrets about not studying and learning as much as you possibly could. You have the rest of your life to socialize and hang out with friends. Make sure to balance your life and always trust in God.

Shannon

Follow your heart. While choosing a college is always an important and frightful one, do not base the decision on anyone else because you must ultimately pick what is right for you as a student and person. Parents, give your child the gift of support. They do take your advice and wishes into consideration, but you must support them no matter what they choose because having you stand behind them during this time is one of the most significant things you can do as a parent. I believe your heart will lead you to the place where you belong as a college student preparing to enter the world as an individual. To make the most of the college experience you cannot be afraid to challenge yourself and in turn question life. While it is important to have fun and make life-long friends throughout your college experience, it is more important to mature and discover who you are and where you are going. Question why you picked the major you did, and strive to re-evaluate your motives behind your career choice. To make the most of college you must challenge, have adventure, love and above all be uniquely you.

Ashley

The most important advice given to someone about their college experience must involve their future plans, background life, and financial aid. Parents and students trying to select the right school must look into the student's future plans. If they plan on pursuing a career that is invigorating but challanging, they need to choose a school that fits that criteria. For example, if a student longs to pursue an instrumental career, they should look into colleges having high connectivity with music. Secondly, students and parents must examine the student's background life in selecting a school. For instance, If the student is timid, he or she may desire to attend a small school. If the student pursues a well-rounded social life and finds the idea of fraternities and sororities ideal, they may want to look into schools that offer these options. The most important advice to give to the students and parents about attending the university is to examine all the financial routes and scholarships. Education is expensive, but if the student can be trusted to fill out surveys for money, search for scholarships, or even play a sport very well, then maybe their selected school is just right.

Caylyn

How you feel on campus and in the community will really tell you whether or not you should enroll there or not. I felt completely at home at Lee University. Also, make sure that they have sufficient funds available to you. I really loved Ohio University's campus but Lee gave me the most money. It was the best choice of my life! If you don't have money to spare, go where the money is! Finally, get involved. My first semester in college, I was a bookworm and would never go out to do anything. The next semester, my friend got me into the symphonic band where I have been for 4 semesters and traveled to Brazil with. All my friends are in band, and I know we will be friends forever. I also got involved in College Republicans, bible study, and I am a Resident Assistant in my dorm. Being actively involved will make your college experience very rewarding and memorable.

Zack

Be sure to physically visit the school before attending, it can make a big difference. Also, try not let finances be the sole reason why a student does not attend the college of choice - everything will work out in the end.

Derrick

I was tell them to weigh the cost and the quality of the institution they are loooking at. There are many high-quality schools that are cost effective. Finally, I would tell them that the satisfaction of the student is very important. If the student is not happy there time at the school will not be a pleasant one and it may be short lived.

Whitney

It flies by, don't waste your time.

Victoria

One school does not fit every person. We are all unique, with different passions, callings, and gifts. Our individual make-up creates an incredible opportunity to find a college program uniquely suited to fit your needs and desires. It is okay if it take a little while to decide on what school to attend! You are investing four years of your life, time, and money into this program. Of equal importance is knowing you have found the school that you want to invest in your well-being and future. This is a chance in a lifetime opportunity! Have fun looking into, and researching, colleges and universities. And once you arrive at your school of choice, make the most of every open door. Don't be afraid to challenge your thoughts, beliefs, and opinions! You will change, but it is okay! College is meant to stretch you. To the parents, be ready for your child's change. Be ready for their tears, their questions, and... their requests for money! Parents and students, this is one of the greatest times in life. I wish you the best.

Summer

Visit all the campuses you are looking at all so that you can get a feel for the type of atmosphere you will be in, and try everything once you're in college. This is a time for growth and for breaking down boundaries and testing the limits, so don't hold back!

Dawn

When you are searching for the right college you should make sure that you look all around and not only in your area. Explore different colleges that you may not normally look at. Make sure that you start early looking for schools, and getting your applications out to colleges. Don't worry, just be in prayer that you will be accepted into the best college that would be for you.

Sarah

Look into the courses that your prospective colleges offer. If you can take classes at a local college that's cheaper and will transfer before spending a lot of money, do it first. Get some classes out of the way, and spend a little less on your education. Also, the transition from High School to College is difficult for some students, especially if they are moving away. It is easy to get distracted because Mom and Dad are not there, stay focused and STUDY.

Brooke

I would tell them to apply early and go visit the colleges that they are interested in and ask lots of questions while they are there.

Angie

make sure they have your career you want.

Zachary

I would say that visiting the top schools on your list is a good idea. It allows you to experience the campus and some of the people that attend that school. This aids tremendously in choosing a school. I would also say that one should definitely consider pricing and scholarships. Some schools have really good academic scholarships that can have a very positive impact on your debt when you graduate. Also, just because a school is expensive, doesn't make it necessarily better. In regards to finances, also I would recommend going to a junior college and getting your core classes out of the way first because it is SO much cheaper and you can live at home with your parents, saving a ton of money on room and meals.

Holly

My best advice to a parent or student about finding the right college is to go to a school that looks like it is going to be able to meet your academic needs. Whatever field of study you are planning on going into, you should look for a school that has good reviews and is known for that program. It is also important to look for a school that offers activities that interest you. In order to make the most of your college experience, it is important to attend all events your school has that gives you an opportunity to meet and interact with fellow students. Although academics are the reason for college, socializing is extremely important too. It is important to have peers that you can interact with and help you with school and problems in life. In college, friends become your family, so go to all activities and events your school have. Get out there and try to involve yourself in your school as must as you can. College only lasts so long, so make the most of it.

Jessica

Really look in advance, get to know the school very well before making the decision. Visit the school and get familiar with its surroundings. Also get ahead in finding financial aid at an early start because you will need it.

Daron

I would tell them do not overlook smaller colleges. When first picking schools we overlooked Lee University. That would of been a big mistake. The professors here really care about the students. The student body here is wonderful. You also are part of a community that fully supports and cares for the students of this school.

Blaize

Make sure you visit the college first. I visited this college and knew I was meant to be here.

Colleen

Find a place that allows you to be yourself but that will stretch you academically, mentally, and spiritually. It is well worth the hardships in the end.

Austin

If you are a christian fundamentalist group than you will love this school.

Jenee`

When looking into colleges, I would suggest that the parent or student really decide on what they want both socially and academically and write it down and look at the list when considering the school. I think that the social life as a college student is just as imporant as the academics. I would suggest looking at the school 's academic programs, the clubs, and the environment. They need to make sure that they can feel comfortable in the surrounding environment where they can study and create new relationships with the people arround them. Another suggestion I would give is not only to talk to the teachers and the leaders of the school, which is very important, but to talk to the students about the school and ask them specific questions about what they really think about their school, both the positives and negatives. Then go back and weigh all of the options and decide if it is the right place for you. never look at just one school. They may have one school in mind but it may not be the right school for them, they need to check out many schools to be sure.

angie

Make sure the college has advisors that will help you succed until you graduate

Ellen

To find the right school, one must be careful to assess the school's practicality and focus, as well as personal expectations and goals. One should ask questions such as: What do I want in a school? What will be the cost and value of the education I recieve there? Will I learn all I that can, and will it aid me both in life and in my career? What do I want for my future? Every person's answer to these questions will be different and the school one attends should be selected based on individual preference. Once a person has decided upon a school, he or she should be prepared for hard work. While college is meant to be a place where one learns independence and makes new friends, no grade should be sacrificed for the sake of a temporary good time. Above all, college is a place where one goes to get an education. Social life must never come before study or grades. While grades do not mean everything, they are an assessment of academic achievement and will reflect the amount of material that a student has mastered during a course. Strive for excellence in everything.

Daniel

First, always make sure that your college has the fields of study that you want to undertake. It's no good going to a college where you can't learn the field in which you want to work. Second, can you picture yourself living comfortably there and interacting well with other students? Compatibility is always essential. Thirdly, get down to the nitty gritty and throw yourself into your studies. The more you learn, the better, and you want to get enough education for your money. Besides, you never want to lose a scholarship because you didn't study hard enough. Finally, get involved in activities all over campus. Whether you join a student group, play intramural sports, or even just attend a concert or basketball game, participating in campus activities provides a great way to have fun, meet people, and get rid of any stress you've had throughout your day.