Loyola University New Orleans Top Questions

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

Christina

Go with whatever your heart is telling you. Loyola was always my first choice, but I "chickened out" to stay closer to friends, and went to the state school instead. It was probably the worst mistake I've ever made. My gut told me to go to Loyola, but I refused to listen. Luckily, I was able to transfer the following year, and had the best year of my life. I love everything about Loyola, and have since the moment I first toured it four years ago. My love for Loyola University and the city of New Orleans has grown since that time. Financing and scholarships are always available to students and families who need it, so don't let that keep you from achieving your dream.

Anthony

Even though this doesn't come to the forefront of your mind when thinking about college experiences, make sure you pick a college that won't cost you too much out of pocket. Financial expenses can cause a huge amount of stress that ruins the whole experience. Other than money, make sure the campus is comfortable and the student body is relatable.

Caressa

The advice I would give parents is support your child's passion. As a music major I am very grateful to have been blessed with a family that supports the direction I have planned to take at Loyola University New Orleans. I feel that if a person is truly passionate about something they will succeed in many ways, and some of these successes may not be the practical means of success. The support that a family is able to give their child is the purest and strongest foundation for allowing someone the opportunity to become an amazing person, as well as successful in whatever he/she chooses. The most important thing a parent can do for their child is believe in their child's abilities with all their heart and support them in their first choice university. My advice for students is to always strive to do your best in college. Don't get caught up in the hype of independece and abuse the amazing opportunies and education you are being allowed. Make time for your friends and family, even when times are hectic, because they will always lift your spirits when you're down because they love you.

Deidre

I made the mistake of only applying to one school. I made the right choice, but remember to keep your options open and apply to as many places as you can.

Meaghan

Go with the school that's the best fit for you rather than what'll impress other people.

Micaela

My journey to Loyola was a very unexpected and spontaneous one. Loyola was not my first choice, nor was it my second, third, or even fourth. I started applying to schools, "sure" of what I wanted to study. However, as a prospective voice major, my parents forced me to think "rationally", urging me to persue a degree which could serve as a fall back option should it be difficult to find work; "a safety." So, instead of applying to colleges for a musical theatre degree, I applied as a music therapy degree. I stumbled upon Loyola by accident, and it happened to be just the right atmosphere for me. Beautiful campus... beautiful city... beautiful people. It turned out to be the best decision of my life. Granted, I changed my major to vocal performance during the first month of school... but that's a different story. My advice is to listen to your children and believe that they want something when they want it. Look through all options... and don't give up if you get rejected. I applied to 10 schools, and got into 2. However, one of those schools was Loyola... thank goodness for that.

Danielle

Visit the college of your choice before attending. You may learn and see things that you did not expect. Spend a day in the life of a college student to learn the realities of college - the workload and the pressure. Also, be encouraged in knowing that you will meet the people that will be your friends for the rest of your life! Don't be shy - get to know people! The college experience is much more fun and worth-while when you are outgoing and adventurous!

Claire

First and foremost, visiting the schools I was interested in prior to acceptance was the biggest thing for me. Without that trip I would have ended up in a small town that was very uncomfortable for my needs. Instead, I ended up at the best place I could ever hope to attend school at: Loyola. It really has been a dream come true. And in terms of the college experience, never ever be afraid to stand up and take an opportunity when it presents itself. By becoming good friends with my professors, studying with friends, and not being afraid to shake someone's hand, I've made it all the way to New York for an internship, I work at the best jazz hall downtown, and I'm already planning events for a local non-profit (an area I'd like to get into once I graduate). And lastly, ASK QUESTIONS! YOU are paying the money to go to that school, so make sure you learn the things that YOU want to know! So many people and professors are willing to give extra advice, all it takes is the right questions. So never put that hand down.

Alexandra

Find a place that you feel comfortable at. Pay attention to how the people, the buildings, and the atmosphere make you feel. You should have a warm and content (even excited) feeling when you visit. Pick a school that prides itself on the sucess of its students. You can judge this by how much they emphasize extra-curricular activities. It is so important to be involved, find a passion, and having something wonderful to take you away from always working hard in the class room. College is a time to prepare yourself for a career, but it should also be very fun. College is such a special time for people and it is important to find a place where you feel really comfortable and happy. Things such as student organizations, work study programs, clubs, sports, and study abroad should be strongly accentuated for personal development. When pickng a school, it is important to pick one that strives for its students to have diverse opportunities and experiences. What a person learns in a classroom is important, but it is experience that builds character. Find a place where you can be yourself, find your own place in the world, and love it.

Elizabeth

Make sure that you look closely at the larger campuses and see it they are truely lagit. Smaller might be better!

Cate

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Elizabeth

Visit the campuses, the area around them, and the scholastic areas. Not necessarily in that order!

Weigert

Finding the right college is tricky business; making the most of one's college experience is even trickier. Prospective students should consider their priorities and rank various factors from lowest to highest. E.G. location, cost, offered majors, etc. Start looking for schools that pride themselves on some of the most important points and ask current students about the rest. Never take an official's word for anything. If they work for the school, their top priority is attracting students. If a current student likes the school, they'll tell you why; if they regret the decision to enroll, they'll let you know. Once you've found the right school, sample everything it has to offer right away. Student groups may appear uninteresting, but they usually exist for a reason. If you don't visit them, you'll never know what you're missing out on. Take an active interest in your education both inside and outside the classroom. Nobody else can do this for you. If you want to learn, you can do it anywhere. No matter which university you attend, your education is free. The only thing you pay for is the diploma that goes with it.

Charles

Many people suggest to high school students to go to college right after you graduate. More and more people are going to college, making the "norm" rather than the exception. Where people previously relied on college education to set them apart from their peers, it is not as significant in making you stand out. Decide what you want to go to school for first, that way you can avoid going to college for a fifth year, as a large percentage of students now do.

Amanda

Do a lot of research and dont be afraid to try somewhere or something you didnt think you were looking for... you might be pleasantly surprised and fall in love with a city you never even thought you would visit. You can ALWAYS go back home if you dont like it, but if you dont leave you probably wont ever.

Melanie

Don't be afraid to go far away! Too many people let their fears and misconceptions about college hold them back and keep them close to home - but the academic challenges and life adventures that face you when you really assert your independence and invaluable and really help create great life experience! Don't let stereotypes or misconceptions keep you from going where you feel, in your heart, you need to be.

Jonathan

My best advice is to pick a college that suits your needs. Thus, this requires campus visits and tours. I cannot stress how important these are; they are your first chance to experience the college. I suggest that you sit down, and write out your ideal college. Include things such as size, location, major of study, etc., but don't forget to include the other important factors that weigh in on a college decision: the life factors. The college that you choose to attend will most likely be your home for the next four years, so if you are someone that hates the cold, don't choose a school that gets horrible cold weather. It is your job to find somewhere that you can be happy for the next four years, as well as succeed academically. If you do choose a large university, it is essential that you ensure that professors get to know you. This is critical when it comes to letters of recommendation. How can someone accurately portray you if they don't know you? My last bit of advice is to go away to college if you can. It opens up a whole new world of experiences.

Nathalie

Visit the possible campuses and ask questions; always ask questions!

Joshua

Find a school that is relatively small. During Hurricane Katrina, I went to Louisiana State University, where the classes were quite large (50-500 people). I had no connection to the teacher at all... I was a number, not a name. It was extremely difficult to schedule a meeting with my teachers. At a smaller school with smaller classes, a student will be able to develop a healthy student-teacher relationship that is critical to the development to the student.

Robert

Select a school where your child has the most oppertunity to meet people in their carrer field. These are the people that get you jobs.

Ashley

Follow your heart and go to where you feel comfortable.

Sarah

Parents: I think it is important for you to be active in your child's college choices. They are adults, and it is their first adult decision, but it is nice to have your feedback. We hate to admit we are not really ready to let go of you either. Students: Even if you don't end up at your dream school, make the most of your situation. There are so many people who look back and wish they would have gone to college. You have the opportunity, make the best of it, and be great in whatever you do!

ingrid

First the student should know what they are interseted in and see what fields they can get into that they would enjoy. Then pick a college which is strong in their interests. Parents should never try to pick what college their kids should go to. Because usually the kid ends up hating it because its not what they wanted. Parents should just be supportive in what ever their kid decides. And if the kid doesn't know, then the parents should ask what they are interested in and guide them in their decisions.

Amber

You only live once and you should absolutely make the most of your college experience. I would definately recommend going Greek! I have made friends that I will have for a lifetime and have learned so much from then I will never know. Also in Greek life you associate yourself with pwoplw you might not under different circumstances, so it give you a different outlook on other individuals. Also you should visit as many campuses and take as many tours as possible that is the easiest way to get a feel for college life and to really grasp what is going to be expected of you. Do not give in to peer pressure. I know it's in high school, but in college it's a whole new ball game. Remember to uptain your morals and holds what's most dear to you close to your heart.

Jessica

Go to the campus and ask students about what they think about the school. Students will give you the most relevant description of everything from dorms to classes.

Susan

Know yourself well enough to choose a school that makes you happy. Don't buy into what others say or feel about a place, and don't worry too much about a school's reputation. Ultimately, college anywhere is what you make of it. Know what you want out of college--whether it is friends for life, a good education, a better understanding of the world--and consider that the most when making your decision.

Hope

You have to let your son or daughter go with their own gut feeling, not yours. They should feel comfortable there, see potential is making new friends, and picking a program that is strong and offers them lots of opportunities beyond the classroom. If someone does not go with their own feelings but just settles for something, they will not be as happy as if they pushed themselves a bit into a new environment and learn to live on their own. As a shy girl who moved 6 hours away from home to a school where I did not know anyone even from my own city going there, there was no better way to learn to live on my own, grow bolder, and make closer friendships than ever before. Sometimes you just have to take a risk.

William

Go far or don't go!

nicholas

When looking at colleges parents and students should look at when they want a private school or a public school. They should look at the size and cost of the school and whether or not the school offers what the perspective students wants out of his or her college career.

Gary

My advice is to be creative and adventerous. I went to a high school where 85{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my class mates went on the same state school. I decided to go to an amazing city to live on my own and go to a school with unconventional ways of learning. Also, choose a school that offers a great college experience with student activities and school organizations such as student run radio stations, newspapers, ensambles, work study, ect. Most importantly, GET INVOLVED. Get out there and start your experience while you're still learning. You might even make some money while doing what you love.

MIchael

try and plan a trip to the school, and one not through the school just alk around and ask questions, meet people. get to know the culture not created by the tours the school gives you, but from you experiencing the culture the school offers yourself.

Brian

Do your research, talk to students besides the tour guide. Dont choose a school because your friends will be there. You will make new friends I promise. Once in college get involved, your activities are not drinking beer and watching football join a club, fraternity or intramural team. If you are passionate about a club or activity and your school does not have it start it. It is worth the effort. Have fun, but get your work done, you or someone is dishing out a large heap of money to help you suceed, dont let it go to waste. STUDY ABROAD!!!! It was the best time of my life and opened my eyes to so many things, and now i can speak and understand spanish. Lastly enjoy every minute of college because one day it will all be over.

Maria

So you need to find the right college!? Well, here are a some things to think about. First, you want to research, and most definitely talk to alumni. Students just get too excited The fact of the matter is that only an alum will tell you the truth about the school. They've already paid for their education, and are living proof of how useful the knowledge they have attained is in their field of work. Truthfully, I talked to an alumni of my major once, and she said she felt slightly unprepared on her first day of teaching. Loyola is constantly bringing back alumni for that reason. They are always striving to improve their programs. Also, if you have hobbies outside of school, look into those sorts of things . For example, if you love to exercise, "Are there aerobics classes at the university?" "Is there even a gym?" Say I loved music, ( ;] ) I would do some research on guest performances, conductors, and even the venues in town. Is it far from home? Some students can't take the distance., and it's a very sensitive subject. Finally, you should ask yourself one question. Do you have what it takes? ;)

Mark

No matter what your parents tell you, not matter how much it?s been drilled into you head that good grade and lots of extracurriculars will make you successful; it's not true. I?ve learned more about life and less about everything else in the time I?ve been here then all of my previous years. And what I take away from the experience is a network of friends closer to me than family, guys that I can rely on like brothers, and girls that have taught me that there?s more to relationships than.... well hopefully you get the picture. I'm a better person for being here; I'm currently in the Middle East on an internship making more money that most guys 10 years out of law school. Life is a series of decisions that happen to lead to a favorable conclusion, at least for me, don't let anyone else beside yourself make that decision for you.

Kiva

Visit the college you plan to attend before paying anything. You have to physically see the campus and its students before oyu can make a good decision.

Robert

Don't be afraid to try new things, always be willing to throw yourself into new situations!

Anne

I would tell them to go to the college that they can afford. College experiences are what you make them, and I believe that you can learn just as much at a state school than at a private school depending on how much effort you put into your education. I would particularly advise them not to take out student loans for living expenses. I myself work two jobs, and I know a lot of other people who work two or more jobs, and it is definitely possible to make ends meet without going into debt. Also, beware of credit card offers. Although it may be fun to go out and party without having to pay the bill, it is very easy to ruin your credit and very hard to build it back up. The financial decisions that people make while in college can have lasting effects, and unfortunately there is very little information to help college freshman understand financial risks unless they seek it out themselves.

Ainsley

Don't be so worried about picking the perfect school. College will be a fun and rewarding experience no matter where you end up, as long as you are open to new people and new experiences. Plenty of people that are accepted into the college of their dreams find out that it's not as great as they thought it would be. This is the time of your life to have fun and begin learning what it means to be an adult, so don't take it too seriously. If you worry too much about the particular school, you'll probably end up being unhappy no matter where you are. Life is full of surprises and change, so don't be afraid to just go with the flow.

Andrew

Go somewhere where you like the area. There are things to do that you're interested in. Don't choose a school you can party at because you can party at all schools. Don't go somewhere too big because you can get lost in all the students. Unless learning on your own or going to talk to the teacher in their office hours is your style.

Tracy

When choosing a college, I feel it is important to feel a connection with the college. Is it a place you can imagine yourself growing and developing into the person you are meant to be? Are you comfortable with the campus, professors, and other students? I also highly recommend seeing how alumni view their experiences at the school. When they swell with pride and loyalty, you know that it is a place they once cherished. Another good aspect to look into is the course requirements and if they meet your future career needs.

Jerrica

Parents and students should always visit the campus for a weekend and get a feel for the campus life. Going to a school you don't love can really put a damper on your college career. Find a school that works for you! Find out about financial aid, campus housing, the staff, the community, and everything possible! When you start college, don't hide in your dorm studying all the time. Get out there and do stuff. Join a few clubs, go out for a night on the town, and get to know people and make friends. Make sure you find a school that suits your personality, whether you're a beach bum or a city kid, you won't be happy out of your element!

Veronica

Start looking at colleges early. Leave yourself enough time to visit and think about each one. What feeling does each campus give you? Do students and professors seem friendly? Do you think you could feel at home here? Sometimes the right choice jumps out at you. Once you begin college, just be yourself. Participate in orientation activities; they're a great way to meet people. Join clubs that appeal to you. Take interesting classes. Volunteer in the community. Living on-campus can be a lot of fun, plus it's convenient!

Kathryn

I would advise that students keep their minds open. I had my mind set on one school and never considered the opportunities college offers. I transferred schools several times, exploring many coasts, and have learned so much by being willing to adapt to new surroundings, take chances, and be ready to put in hard work. Make sure you consider all your options and keep logic in check, but never forget that this time is probably the best time in your life to take advantage of all the adventures and challenges college can offer you. It doesn't happen much more after school! As for parents, the best thing you can do is encourage your children in the school search and be supportive. If you disapprove of a major or school choice, let your thoughts be known but do so tactfully - after all, they chose this path for themselves but they need to know that if your instincts are right, they will not be taunted for not going your way. Also, be understanding to let go to some extent!

Cecilia

Making THE college decision is an extremely stressful and overwhelming ordeal! A few things that helped me make the final and difficult decision included financial aid, the college visit, and...financial aid :). I ended up choosing a school 1500 miles away from my home, which is much farther than I had originally planned. However, I had felt such a strong connection to the campus when I auditioned for the College of Music and Fine Arts that I didn't mind making the move across the country. Additionally, I was offered a great deal of money which has helped my family immensely. Even though I feel that I made the "right" decision and would not change it, I think that I would have had a positive and successful college experience at several of my top choices. I have been able to make the most of my college experience by having a positive attitude towards my course work and, most importantly, a supportive family who is only a phone call away when I feel as though the world is crashing down upon me.

Helen

I think the best way to go about finding the perfect college is to apply to several. I went on Princeton Review and researched the type of schools I thought would be best for me. I then applied to about eight schools using the common application. Upon acceptance, I went and visited the colleges. When I went to visit Loyola University, the city of New Orleans and the friendly student body caught my eye. The best advice I can give is that there is more than one perfect fit out there for every student. I know I could be happy at other universities. There were several other schools that also appealed to me, but Loyola University was a great match for my financial situation. Also, it was important to me that I attended a school where my learning differences would be recognized and respected. When a university understands that you learn differently, life's much less stressful. I would also recomend living on campus freshman year. Many events happens on campus that give students the opportunity to get involved more their freshman year. Overall, I am satisfied with the choice I made, and would choose Loyola University all over again.

Lauren

Find a place you love first. Go look at cities around your university and decide whether or not you like the city. Better yet, think of a city you love and look there for schools. This may even be your hometown! If you find yourself in a place that you love, it will be much easier to deal with the transition from home to a new place. Look at the places you'll be living, as often a bad living environment result in unnessecary stress and sometimes depression. Little things that are often overlooked can make your college experience worse than it should be, so make sure to pay attention to the often overlooked things.

Sarah

When searchin for a college don't be afraid to just apply to different places. You'll never know what financial aid they'll give. Tour all colleges and try to understand which environment feels right to you. Take into consideration all of the services a college offers because it tells you a lot about the college. Talk to students to attend the college to get a true insider's view. When in college, keep your priorities straight. Know how to balance yours classes. Don't be afraid to drop a class if you feel your load is too heavy. Have fun while you can because college only comes once in your life.

Laura

I would tell them to choose the college that offers them what they need. Not only in a educational sense, but also in character. Some schools offer the best academics and resources available, however they lack in character building. The right college is one in which you can feel as though your home and pursuing a dream rather than fulfilling a requirement. I chose my college, because it did offer what i wanted to study, but it also offered opportunities to help me achieve my dreams and become a more well rounded adult. This college has already helped me discover more about myself and the world around me in a single year. College isn't just another stepping stone to get to your future. I strongly believe that these are the times that shape us the most. Therefore, the best advice i could ever give is to choose the college that offers your dreams. Do not hesitate on your decision based on finance, distance or any other obstacles. Choose the best experience. The college that helps you earn the degrees you need to land the career you dreamed of and one that also helps you become confident in you.

Maria

FInding the right college is one of the most difficult choices for a student, however it is the student's decision in the end, and the parents shoudl support their child's decision no matter what. Having a parent chose a college for a student will cause problems and only bring a family a part in the event that something wrong happens. Parent's must trust their children as part of being in college is growing up. I suggest living on campus for at least a year to allow a student to grow and learn responsibility. Also, if a student does not like big colleges, then a major university would not be the best option because it is easier to get lost in the crowd. Personally I find classes with 20 students is the perfect size because teachers can focus on all of the students on an indiviidual basis.