Longwood University Top Questions

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

Nicole

I would try and better prepare myself for the classes I took. The most important thing in college is to keep on top of your assignments and readings due. Professors automatically assume that you did the reading for class, so if you haven't you are completely lost about what is being taught. I would also tell myself to learn better time management, which is another important aspect of college. You really have to set aside several hours to do homework and study for each class that you are taking. Not studying is an easy way to fall behind in class which then causes your grade to drop. I would say that being open and making new friends is the best way to go through college, sitting around in your dorm is not fun so always set time aside for having fun as well as studying.

Megan

If I could go back to high school and give myself advice I would tell myself to be confident in myself and choices I make. I would encourage myself to not be afraid to go out a meet new people and volunteer more. I would tell myself that I should not be ashamed of who I am and what I believe in. Fitting in in high school is not the most important thing. Focus on your grades and getting into a good college where you can meet new people and find your path for life. Not everything in life will be handed to you and you will deal with a lot of hardships but having faith and courage will help you through and never give up. Focus more on yourself and your desires and dreams rather than your friends and peers. Its your life and no one is living it for you so always be the best version of yourself you can be and work hard no matter what. If you follow your own choices and dreams then you will feel confident in who you are and what you want out of life.

Tyler

I would tell myself to get more involved in school. I would also tell my self to be active with my friends. I wish i had more stories to tell to my new friends at school. This was the one thing i regret in highschool. If i could go back and re-do it, then i would.

Holly

College is more than just getting a degree so you can get a decent job. You may think that it can't get any better than high school, but it does. You will meet people that will change your life for forever. Don't be sad when you graduate and leave high school, just think of it as a new beginning. I know you have probably heard that before, but it's true. The past is the past. Hearing that nobody knows you may sound scary, but it's really not. Nobody knows anybody. Everyone is looking for a friend. So when you get there, don't be afraid to say hi to someone, because for all you know, that someone could become your best friend for the rest of your life. Now, about the academics. If you’re majoring in something that you truly love, it won't be terrible. You might even enjoy going to class. If you get to class and realize that don't want to major in that subject, don't be afraid to change it. Lastly, don't forget to live life. College is a whole new experience and you won't regret it!

Taylor

If I could go back to being a high school senior there is a lot of advice I would give myself. One piece of advice would be to try harder on the school work. When I graduated, I needed a 3.75 GPA to graduate with honors. I didn't make it because my GPA was a 3.60. I was so dissappointed. This reason is one of the reasons why I have pushed to keep all my grades up in college, because I do want to graduate with honors. It's a huge deal to me. Another peice of advice I would give is to not stress so much about the little things. Coming to college I have learned that stressing gets you nowhere. If something needs to be done, I have to get over myself and get it done. I have so much more advice to give myself; the list goes on forever. All in all, I think I was a wonderful high school senior when it came to academics.

Charlotte

Charlotte, When you start college open up to people. Do not be afraid to talk to new people and make friends. Do not stick to your friends from high school like glue. There are so many people to get to know and love. Talk to the teachers and get help. Even though it is tempting don't skip class. These days truly do fly by. Take all the help, prayers, and friendship you can get. You will have these memories forever so live your life to the fullest. Even though it is a cliche the world is your oyster. Fall in love, fall out of love, tell the hot guy in the second row how you feel. Rejection hurts but he could be "the one". Take risks in your life, just know which ones not to take. Always be there for others. Join the study groups. Join clubs. Join a college church group. Join anything that makes you happy. Most importantly remember that this time is fleeting. You will someday have a career, husband, and kids. Everything you do now and in college is not only for you, but also for them. Live for what you love, Charlotte

Amy

Don't drink so much! Sure, it's totally awesome and totally fun but you'll avoid so much drama (and trauma) if you try to avoid blackout drunken escapades down Buffalo Street. Also, quit smoking, it's terrible for you. I know, you want to be a cool, smoking, wine drinking poet. I get it. Just tone it down. Your pack a day habit will give you wrinkles at 24. That's not cute. Read every book, even if it's boring. Seriously, there will be other Thursday night parties; there is only one chance to discuss classic literature with your peers in a classroom. You will never find another group of book nerds all in one place ever again; enjoy it because you'll miss those in depth discussions even if you think otherwise at the time.

Brittany

I am a 26 year-old woman who works full-time while maintaining a full course load at Longwood University. This was due to my disinterest in school when I was younger. Though I enjoy learning how to become a speech-language pathologist at this stage of my life, it is not easy. I would love to go back and tell myself to follow my heart and stay in school. As a high school senior, I did not realize the importance of a college degree. I also did not get to experience the life of a college student, which would have been an amazing experience. I would love to tell my high school self that I am meant to change the lives of individuals with special needs and communication disorders. I am happy that I realized this before it was too late.

Ashley

Dear high school Ashley, I know that you do not believe you can finish school without owing money, but trust me you will be able to if you work hard enough. Getting good grades in college will be the hardest thing you have ever done. All nighters are not exactly fun the next day, but those will be the times you make lifelong friends. Every single minute is worth it in order to prepare yourself to be the best musician and teacher you can be. Once you receive your diploma, just remember that no one else can ever take it away. You earned it, and that is never going to change. No other person can take any credit for the work you will do in college, so always make it your very best. Never give up on an assignment, because I know you will have what it takes to accomplish anything the professors assign. Just keep working as hard as you possibly can, and the reward will be so much more than you can imagine - a hope and a future where you will never be hungry again.

Geoffery

If I could go back in time and warn myself about all the difficulties of college it'd be the gretest life lesson I could ever imagine. I would warn myself about making sure my grades are at the highest they could possibly be. I'd convince myself to start searching for college grants, scholarships, and loans; anything that is willing to help pay for school. Lastly I would warn myself about becoming an instant adult after high school. Once you start college you are responsible for yourself and where life takes you, and you have to make sure that the decisons you make will benefit you at the highest peak possible.

Brittany

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself to relax. I would tell her to practice more in orchestra because she is good enough. I would tell her to not get too involved with boys, and that waiting for the right one is okay. I would tell her to always follow her gut, no matter what. Though I wouldn't change the hardships and growth I have been through, I would tell her to remain strong when life gets hard. I would tell her to get scholarships and find a way to any university she wanted to follow any dream she had. I would especially tell her not to be afraid anymore and that she isn't crazy. I would remind her of our belief that everything happens for a reason. Everything will eventually fall into place if she continues to progress, despite the lack of support that she needs. I would apologize that I could not have spoken with her sooner, but that I will see her again very soon. Finally, I would tell her that it is a compliment to be called a nerd.

Bethany

Always be open to new people and new ideas. Do not be afraid to step up and protect what you believe is right for both you and your friends. College will be filled with a lot of surprising situations that will make college seem unbareable and far too stressful, but always talk to your parents and friends through skype to help get you through the year. Put yourself out there and make new friends to form a strong group to hang out with and have dinner with.

Joslyn

If I could go back with the knowledge I know have, I would encourage all of the students in high school to really work hard and get the help they need. By working hard and receiving a high GPA, there are many more options available in schools and scholarships. Taking duel enrollment and AP classes are also very important. Duel-enrollment allow for students to virtually begin collage while in high school. The only difference is the school doesn’t charge students the prices of college students. By starting early on in high school and taking those classes this prepares the students for their future and will be able to take a variety of college courses when they move on to higher education (or students can possibly graduate early). Preparing while in high school for the many possibilities of ones future is the best advise I can give. It is so incredibly important to have a strong foundation from high school that will continue on through the many years of college. Having a strong academic work ethic is important and can lead to ones success.

Krista

Study and make flash cards! Just those two would've made a world of a difference. Good thing I know that now though. Also not to procrastinate even though that's easier said than done. It also helps a lot to have a desk calender and write on it when everything is due and when meetings are. It helps with organization and reduces stress during the year.

Karyn

If I could go back and talk to myself in high school, I would tell myself to keep looking towards the future. I went through very rough times in my high school career, and was never very sure of what I would do with my life when I got into college. Now, I would go back and tell myself that no matter what happens, Longwood University would provide not only the best education, but the best friends that I could ask for. I would also tell myself that college is nothing like high school, and that things do get better, even when it seems like they won't. I would persuade myself to choose this university, because it truly has been a huge, and positive change in my life. I would not change my decision to go here for anything in the world.

Courtney

The main thing that I would tell myself is that although I didn't need to know exactly what I want to be, I should at least have a good idea. Having a better understanding of what I want could have helped me along a little better. Along with that, I would also tell myself to perhaps push myself just a bit harder and maybe take 15 credits instead of just 12. The more important thing I would tell myself would be to not stress so much over the whole financial part of college, sure you might not know how you're going to afford your next semester, but thats what loans are for, right?! I would tell myself to savor all the moments spent at college because this is such a wonderful experience and although you should have goals, you shouldnt rush your time here, you have all the rest of your life to spend out in the real world.

Jessica

I would tell myself take the nursing career pathway and take college classes.

austin

If i were to go back in time and give myself advice on college, I would start by saying relax. College can be difficult at times and very stressful but through hardwork and dedication it can be conquered. Don't be afraid that your going to mess up or drop out just stay postive. When times look tough and impossible, just keep going, because impossible is nothing. You can do it!

Ethan

If I could go back in time and talk to yourself as a high school senior i would tell myself to use every chance that comes to go out and make connections that will help you trough school. The connections that you make will help get rid of stess with friends to hang out with. Also other connections will help you with your grades with people that understand certain subjects. Some people will help you with getting started in the buisseness world.

Elizabeth

To open up and be more outgoing, college is a place for renewal. Here nobody knows who you were or what you did, and everyone here has the same goal of succeeding in life. Take chances and get to know people in your class beyond the classroom, you may find that you have things in common with someone; that someone may end up being one of your best friends. Don't continue old habits, because you may never allow yourself to grow into someone great.

Latoya

I would tell myself to focus and with absolute dedication I can accomplish anything. Latoya there is nothng to fear, unless you have a fear of success.

bianca

No matter what happens there is usually a solution and you never have to continue to do something you don't want to do. These are things that were getting lost among my nervous butterflies. Before going to college I was extremely worried about moving away from home and finding my nitch in a new place so I would remind myself that all the worrying in the world would not help or change anything. I think that if I had worried less I would have enjoyed my first few weeks of college life more instead always being anxious and calling my parents every five minutes. "Don't worry, be happy" is the best advice I could possibly give myself.

Amanda

When I first arrived at Longwood, I felt as though I was being freed from a prison I had been forced to attend for 12 years. High school was a difficult time for me and the stereotypical college experience I was expecting was invigorating. The feeling of being able to do pretty much whatever you want, whenever you want, was so unfamiliar to me that I decided to take full advantage of the opportunity. It wasn't long before I realized that freedom comes with responsibility and consequences. The decisions you have to make during college are life changing. Through these lessons, you learn how to trust yourself and you start embrace your originality. Without the humbling experience of making mistakes and taking responsibility for myself, the side of me my parents have noticed and come to love would still be hidden under my lazy and stubborn exterior. My college experience has helped shape me into becoming a more faithful, responsible and motivated person. This experience has been so valuable and I am grateful to have had the chance to mature.

Kaitlin

I'm going to be blunt - at first, I thought college was a complete waste of time and was not looking forward to soldiering through it. I've stated that I dislike my school being located in such a small town, but I love that the university itself is similarly on the small side and very, very friendly. I've learned what a difference people can make and how the right attitude and environment can make anything so much more enjoyable - I look forward to these next few years not because I like classes and think tons of homework is to die for, but because I know that the professors are helpful, friendly, and they want to see you succeed, they really do. Other students are fantastic about helping "noobs" settle in and get their new lives straight - everyone has tips and advice and they give it freely. :) The size of the school means that you see people around and become familiar with almost everyone. The experience so far has been worth its weight in gold in erasing my fear for the future and cultivating a valuable set of people skills.

Ashley

College experience has done a lot for me. I have made so many new friends and memories. The upper classmen at Longwood are really friendly, welcoming, and willing to help the freshmen out. It just reflects on how Longwood represents students who are friendly, respectful, and honorable and I am proud to be describe as one of those students as well. I guess I could say that I've gotten a better character out of my college experience. I've learned to love school, make good grades and make my dad proud. I've learned to be honest, since Longwood takes the honor code very seriously. I've learned to make new friends and to be yourself. Attending Longwood is valuable to me because I feel like the community has taken me in with open arms and I feel at home here. I love Longwood and am so glad I chose to come here.

Amber

Longwood was my first choice and I love it there. It is the best place for me to be. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly. If your looking to go into education then it is the best place for you as it is for me. The teachers have experince in the field they are teaching so they can relate what they are teaching back to real life experinces. Longwood is the best school in Virginia in my opinion.

LeAnn

In the two years I have spent at Ocean County College I have received a variety of opportunities. I've made new friends, but more importantly, learned what it means to be a college student. In high school I never truly felt as if I assimilated with other students, but I found out fitting in to a social group isn't everything. Although fitting in isn't everything, Ocean County College subjected me to a variety of other students who can be very accepting. It's given me a chance to excel academically and has given me an opportunity to help others. I have worked at the math tutoring center for three semesters at the college, and it was the best thing that could have ever happened to me. Being influenced by so many students at the same time has made me realize that everyone is different, and they have helped me realize my true potential: I can be a great student, but at the same time, a caring, responsible, and influential individual who's not afraid to take on any challege.

Jordan

I have gotten so much out of my college experience, so much more than just a bachelor's degree. Longwood was a perfect fit for me. Not only is the campus easy to navigate but everyone is friendly and helpful. I was a transfer student and was worried I would feel like an outsider but that was not the case. Students in the Psychology department were so nice and welcoming it was impossible not to make life long friends. The professors were always available for help after class and I was able to obtain a 4.0 gpa by taking advantage of all the opportunites and after class help they offered. They have been the guiding force in myself striving for a Graduate degree, which I have just been accepted to. Longwood has helped me grow up and become the person I always wanted to be. Not only did I get an amazing job in this economy but now it has helped me get accepted in graduate school. I have made amazing friends and lifelong bonds with my professors, and even met by fiance on campus.

Katherine

I have grown so much. I am more confident, independent, and daring. People can't believe I'm this different, in a good way.

doug

I was called by God to be a childrens missionary when i went to school i didn't know what to expect. I worked really hard and graduated doing good. It helped me to grow in my faith and made me a better person. I did struggle with my teaching i do need to go to bible college to learn Gods word so i can do as God has called me to do. The children need me its either i have to do it or you can someone needs to be there for Gods little ones. God has called me to reach his little ones because no else can. You can play a small part in by blessing me watch and see if God doesn't bless you back do you believe i do. Go ahead and see what happens. I would like to thank you on be half of Gods little ones and also i would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart. My hope is that God would bless you and your family this new year. Just believe. Delaware Doug.

Kelly

In my experience at college, I have learned a lot in a short amount of time. First and foremost, I have learned how to be on my own and take more responsibilty for everything that I do and everything that I need to do. I have also learned how to better manage my time and how to minimize my stress level. I have learned the true value of what it will take to fulfill my dream of becoming a teacher. Longwood has already started to prepare me for what I will face in the world of teaching and how to handle situations. I have already learned so much about goal of becoming a teacher, and I still have 3 years left at Longwood! Longwood is really helping to prepare me to become the best teacher I can be.

Manpreet

The main things that I would tell myself, as a high school senior, are that to make better choices when applying for colleges. Although I am currently enrolled at Longwood University, I feel that I made a mistake in my decision of coming to this school. I don't really fit in and I wish I had done more research when applying to schools. I have now applied to five other transfer schools that fit my personality and would be able to encompass my lifestyle, likes, and dislikes, which is something that I was not able to understand when I was a senior in high school. I feel that I began giving up on school work and caused myself to get way too stressed out way too easily. I now know how to manage my time and my stress, which is something I was not able to do back then. It's important to keep your friends circle close during that year, as well, and I started pushing mine away because I thought I would never talk to them. Innovations in technology are bringing people closer together and that's something that I have learned and have now embraced.

Keara

I would tell myself to consider a school with more of an ethnic variety and to perhaps even consider University abroad. I would also tell myself to make more investments , apply for more scholarships, and to have meaningful relationships with people based on common interests.

Hunter

The main points I would make to myself would be, don't procrastinate, don't keep your head in the clouds, and pay attention to English class. As a double major in history and sociology I found that I as a student was very ill prepared for writing papers and citing properly. Asking for help was something I rarely did in high school, and that is something that carried with me to college up till recently. Making the transition was simple for me; I have always been a social butterfly, so that was never an issue. I also got involved early in our school GSA, which I am now the historian for, and being more active in other organizations would have been beneficial, especially the school newspaper. In a nutshell I would say that the best preparation for me, while still in high school, would be getting those bad habits broken of not procrastinating, keeping my head out of the clouds, and paying attention in English class.

Jessica

I would encourage you to take more Advanced Placement classes, because they save an enormous amount of tuition costs when you score high enough on the exams to receive college credit. You also save time for classes you need to take, rather than general education courses. When coming to school, do not always expect your roommate to be your best friend. If you assume they will be, and they turn out to be the opposite of who you would choose as a friend, then you are more likely to get hurt. I would encourage myself to find a church that is what you are looking for at the beginning of the year, rather than waiting. Having a good foundation in my faith would have eased some of the difficult transitions. Also, maintain healthy living. It is easy to do this in high school when you play a sport, but at college, food is available all the time and laziness attacks. I would encourage a regular workout and healthy eating. Moreover, sleep is a necessary element of health, so make sure you are getting in as much sleep as your body needs.

Rachel

I wish I had the chance to go back in time and speak to myself as a high school senior. I remember I was apprehensive about attending community college before transferring to Longwood University. Jealousy consumed me as I watched my peers brag about what colleges they would attend that next year. I had a high enough GPA to attend most colleges, but a four-year university was not in the budget. Transferring seemed my only option, but I was ashamed to tell others I was going to community college. Now, after having attended community college for a year and transferring to Longwood, I see that I am a stronger person because of my experience. Community college served as a stepping stool in my transition from a high school student to a college student. I was able to experience the more rigorous classes, while holding a job and still living at home. It was a character building experience, and I learned a lot about myself during that year that I had dreaded as a senior. If I could go back, I would tell myself to be confident of my choices for my future, and not worry about what others thought.

Alexandra

If I could go back in time I would talk to myself about the living situation in college. I would warn myself about the problems living with other people. I am used to having my own room and didn't realize the problems that would come with sharing. I knew that there might be problems with cleaning, but I never thought about the academic aspect. Peer mentors and other people warn you about it, but I didn't really listen. It would have helped to hear it from myself. They may have friends over when I want to study, so I have to find a place to do work. I would have probably found a place to do that if I had warned myself before hand. There are times for studying and times for fun, and I would have warned myself that my roommates weren't going to have the same agenda as me.

Christy

The one thing you will struggle with in college is spending money, save the money you make this summer - YOU WILL NEED IT! You have the study habits down but you will have to get used to learning past the grade - what you learn is college is what is going to make you a successful professional, do not just focus on getting a grade focus on obsorbing all the useful information your professors will give you. A good grade is great but if you are not slowly progressing to a competant professional, it is all for nothing.

Kenzi

I would have told myself to straight up CALM DOWN. So much time my senior year and the summer before college I spent worrying over this and that. College is a big change but it's not the end of the world as I knew it. I should have spent more time relaxing and enjoying the time I had left in high school and over the summer with my friends instead of wasting time freaking out. If I just calmed down, organized and got everything for college together in an orderly fashion I could have saved myself so much stress. (and probably a few acne breakouts too!)

Margaret

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there would be a couple pieces of advice I would give myself. The first would be that it is not a good idea to room with a friend from high school. This may seem like a good decision because you would feel more comfortable living with someone you know. In reality, it is better to room with someone you don't know well so you can get to know them and meet new people. Also, getting involved in activities around campus is very important to keep yourself active and on the right path. It is also very imporant to learn to balance your life between your friends, schoolwork, and your personal life. Balance between those three will elimnate stress and make the transition to college a lot smoother. Once you learn to balance, college will be a lot more enjoyable and you will learn the technics to stay focused and motivated as well.

Victoria

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior, I would tell myself not to take anything, not even for a second for granted. First semester goes by so fast that you are not even sure where all the time goes to, you really have to have a plan for every moment of every day. As a freshman, or even a student, you cannot just wake up without having a plan; you need to take it one day at a time, written down in one of those silly planners your mom diligently records everything in. Sliding by absolutely is not an option anymore, sit down and take the time to sort through and read your notes or even over your syllabus. Organization and daily blueprints is the key to a successful first year at college.

Carissa

Decisions are the hardest thing to make, and this just happens to be one of the biggest ones of your life. It will change you completely, and you will not realize just how much it has until the very end. Everything you thought you knew will crumble; you will realize how much there is to learn, and how much the rest of your life relied on This. Single. Decision. Through all the stressors about choosing the right school - you will. The decision process is miserable but devoted pros and cons lists will work. Consider what size of school you need, make sure you pick one that requires an internship - or at least do one, remember that every other freshman went through the same process you did, and learn to make ramen (boil water). This time, breathe. Realize that goals are made through thoughts, but reality is made through action. You cannot fix every problem in the world, but you can fix the ones you find most important to you. As long as you have an open mind, clean your dishes, and balance social life with school work (time management is key) you will have the best four years. Ever. Guaranteed.

Emily

I would like to tell myself to research careers and majors in a more in-depth manner. I would like to tell myself to take advantage of the the student programs set up for freshmen. I would ask myself to consider carefully each college suggestion given by my older friends in college, parents, and respected friends. Each college has its good points and its bad points. Carefully consider location versus program options. Listen to your parents, they do understand what you are going through and are there to help you.

Misty

I would remind myself that the decisions I make will effect me in the long run, but my main piece of advice to tell myself would be to keep doing what you've been doing. As an International Baccalaureate student in high school, the college workload was something that I was used to. As an Honors student at Longwood, I had the opportunity to get to know the people on my hall a week before school even started. I had a very easy transition. As long as I remain level-headed but keep a sense of fun, I will do well. Which is what I would tell myself.

Sydney

I would tell myself to really think about what I want to do as a career and make sure I pick a school that has the major I am interested in. Also, visit all different colleges and get the experience a college student would, by staying a couple days. See if you would rather be a big school or a small school. Don't follow your friends where they go. You need to focus on your career and what will make you happy in the long run.

Michelle

Advice to myself? RELAX! Not everyone cares that you are a bit weird - because they are all weird too! You'll find your best friends are those that hear what you say and respond; and they are the ones that will stick close to you through it all. People want to see who you are, it's ok to show them a little of whats on your mind, particularly the teachers. Acually, they WANT to hear you argue your point. So stick to what you believe, noone will look down on you for it, they'll respect you more. Don't be afraid to step out and enjoy yourself, college isn't all about keeping that 4.0 GPA. Classes are important, but so is life. Don't forget to live as who you are.

Allison

Go with an open mind and get as involved as possible, it's the relationships made in college that shape who you become for the rest of your life. Don't stress over every little thing, just sit back and enjoy the best four years of your life!! Study hard, because you're going to be way more proud of your GPA in college, it feels more like you earn it and work for it than it ever did in high school. Oh, and by the way, you're going to become best friends with your roommate- so relax!

Michelle

There are a lot of important decisions to make when deciding what college to attend for the next four years of a students education, and I would tell every student and parent to really dig deep and take their time in finding the right fit for them. Be sure to look for what you want to get out of a college, whether that be academics offered, social life, the setting of the college or even finance services. It seems a little cliche, but when I arrived at Longwood for my initial visit, I immediately felt comfortable and a little at home and I think having that feeling when you get to school is important to have. I would strongly suggest taking a tour or visit the campus before making your decision. Get to know the staff and faculty as well as fellow students. As for making the most out of your college experience, I would suggest joining clubs or organizations on campus, but try to not to become too involved. Stay positive and remember that you can only get out what you want from an experience, so make it what you want!

KELLY

It is important to make sure that you choose the college that seems like a perfect fit for you.

Jennifer

If you know what you want to major in locating the perfect college is easy. However, if you're not sure what you want to do with your life look for a school that has a large variety of majors. Also, consider what size school would best fit you. During your freshman year utilize your general education requirements to help you find what you want to major in. If after your first semester you feel like the college you choose isn't right for you, transfer. There's nothing wrong with transferring, you just need to do it ASAP in order to graduate in 4 years. Most colleges will accept your lower level credits, but once you start taking upper level courses they'll be harder to transfer. Whether in a small town or big city, many students complain that there is nothing to do. Activities are not going to magically appear, you have to make an effort to look for them. Your college and surrounding town are eager for you to participate in a variety of activities that are free or in-expensive. Always be on the look out for fliers or ads in the local or school newspaper.