Malone University Top Questions

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

Abby

If I could go back in time and give advice to my high school self, I would tell myself to be more outgoing and join more groups. Basically, get more involved on campus. I think it is not only important to focus on academics in college, but your social life is important too. It is true that your friends in college are often your friends for life. I think by not joining more groups and being more involved with dorm activities, I missed out on many friendships I could've made. Schoolwork is important, but with some trying it can be easily integrated with your social life in college. Getting to know the people I was living around and interacting with almost every day would have been beneficial because without a social life, weekends at school can get pretty boring.

Emily

Do you know the saying, "take time to smell the roses?" Well, it's true. Life has sped by me light a lightning bolt flash. You see the lightning and within seconds, it has already come and gone. Life is supposed to be full of ups and downs and crazy moments that may not make sense right away. Instead of trying to rush through every moment, I should have relished in it. I should have appreciate my trials and sweet achievements just a little more because all of it is what made me who I am today. I was so focused on becoming an "adult," that I didn't step back and smell the roses like I should have. Have I enjoyed me life? ABSOLUTELY. However, if I can tell young Emily something, it would be to enjoy ALL that life has to offer. Enjoy the A+ on that term paper and celebrate! Accept the B on my assignment and game plan for the next one. Listen a little close to the voice within that is trying to remind you that everything will work according to God's plan in due time. Smell all of the roses; even thorny ones.

BOMI

I would push myself more to study harder on some of the AP exams I took on senior year. Also I think I should have been a little more aggressive on searching for scholarships instead of just considering college loans. I would also focus on finding internships starting my first year. I dont think you can get pluged into your field too early. If you do not learn anything from it, you might meet someone who might play a significant role for your job search.

Yokasta

Get involved in at least two clubs or activities you enjoy; not only does it look good on your college application, but it's also a fun way of learning and, sometimes, giving back while also making friends. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and seek help when you need it; it will save you stress and time later on. Think of high school as a bridge that prepares you for the future and real-world circumstances and problems. It is a time to grow, learn and change. Make the most of it!

Hannah

Don't worry so much about your grades. Focus on making connections, meeting people, having conversations, and building a network. College is about learning, both about your chosen subject as well as about yourself. Be strong in your faith and who you are as a person. Be prepared to meet people who are drastically different then you are. Be open-minded to the diversity in the world around you without compromising who you truly are. Be ready to have the tough conversations with mom and dad about being independent, following house rules, and making your own decisions. Make sure everyone understands exactly what the expectations are and where responsiblities lie. Don't be afraid of failure as you tend to learn more that way. And for goodness sake, keep your mouth shut when nothing needs to be said!

Alicia

Hi Alicia, Before you head off to just any college, there are some things that you really need to know. You may not know what field of study you would like to go into now, but that's ok. You can always start with your basic core classes. But, before you decide on what college you are going to, you need to do your homework. Make sure that the college you plan on attending is accredited. It makes a world of difference. Not going to an accredited college will make it much tougher to find a job once you decide what field of study you do go into. When registering, don't just sign the paperwork. Read all paperwork thoroughly. Not only read it, but keep copies of it, because you never know when you may have to go back and reread them in case you run into any issues; for instance, the school closing. Finally, make sure not to study, but have fun and get involved. Join study groups and clubs. Get out there and meet people. You will never know who you may run into that can help you get the job of your dreams.

Luke

Keep doing what your doing, you're on the right track.

Amber

I would tell myself to learn how to study before you get to college. It would really help. I also would tell myself to look at the bigger schools and not just the small ones. Even though Iiked the smaller classes, I think a bigger school would have been nice to meet a more diverese group of people!

Jacob

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to take a step of faith and go to Liberty University even though it is farther away. When I was a senior, the thing that bothered me the most was the transistion from being away from my family. I really liked Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, but because I was afraid to leave my family and friends I didn't go. I believe that Liberty University is a great place to not only recieve an education, but to grow and develop in my relationiship with God. After my first year of college, I have learned that sometimes choices will not always be easy and things will not always go as you planned, but if you trust in God and believe He will help you, you can accomplish some pretty awesome things. This fall I have decided that I will be transferring to Liberty University and hope to see my faith grow and develop.

Stacy

I would tell myself that college will be the best time of my life. You will make friends and get good grades, so stop worrying! Don't be afraid to try new things and meet new people, but at the same time, don't let people take advantage of you. The Library is a good and necessary place to study, and although a late night food run is more fun, studying is much more important. I would tell myself not to be afraid to make changes in my life, because change is good.

Reagan

I have learned what I believe and why I believe it. I have also learned how to be my own person and accept responsibility. I have learned how to be a true caring friend.

Helen

I have gotten much out of my college experience. Before I came to Malone College, I did not have a lot of friends. Now I have quite a few. I have made friends with a relatively diverse group of people. In that diversity, there has been some ideological worldviews that are different from mine. It has been interesting to discuss these viewpoints. Often, we have to agree to disagree. However, it is still fun to discuss (and in some cases debate) certain topics. I have also learned quite a bit at Malone. My opinions on some things have changed since I got here, but some have staye the same. Finally, I have definitely grown spiritually, which is a definite plus of going to a Christian college.

Lindsay

College helps better my education and help me achieve my career goal to become a Physical Therapist. Occupations today require people have more than just a high school diploma this is why people need to attend college.

Kenzie

I was nervous when I made the decision to go to college. After knowing my whole life that my parents did not attend college I constantly stuggled with the choice of starting to work right out of high school, or to continue my education at the next level. After making this decision and now ending my first official year of college, I am so happy that I made the choice to enroll. Not only have I had the chance to make friends that will last a lifetime, but I'm bettering the chances of an amazing future and a chance to finance a family if I decide to have one someday. Although there is the occasional homesick days, I've learned to be independent and rely on myself more and more which is essential for when I graduate from college. I feel that I have gotten a sense of responsibility, pride, and determination out of attending college and I feel that going to a college will ensure a better chance at a brighter future.

Reagan

I have loved my experience at school so far! The key for me was to get involved as much as possible. I am the type of person who loves to get involved in programs and being a part of them brings me joy. I worked hard my Jr. and Sr. year in high school to be able to be accepted in a football program at a university. Through the help of my father and coach, I obtained my dream in playing ball at the college level. Through this experience, I have meet people that I immediately clicked and connected with because we share same standards spiritually, and relationally. Through our shared interest in the Lord and his grace, I know we will eventually become friends with meaning and substance. I now have friends who genuinely care about me and understand the types of struggles I go through. I have also learned how to live on my own without my parents acting like a bubble of protection. Making my own descisions has really challenged me to live like Christ. My daily struggle is to be like Him, and I now feel like I can do that through this new freedom.

Erin

As a high school senior, I thought I knew exactly where I was going with my life, and there was no room for detour in the plan. Then, I actually got to college. I was accepted to my number one choice school, got a great scholarship, and was accepted into my major program. However, as the months dragged on, I began to feel that it was not the place for me. There were and are great things about that school, but not all of them were great for me. Things I now realized I wanted in a school, such as a religious background, being closer to home, and having a friendly atmosphere, are things I overlooked in my initial search, and are just what I have found at my new university. I am not one who likes to be thrown off of my path, and I was in a big way. However, I realized much more about myself then I ever knew I would in just my first semester in college. My advice? Don't be afraid to be open to new changes, even if you think it's not what you wanted in the first place. You never know!

Maryann

Realize than more often than not, the people you have as friends in high school will not be your closest friends after college. The reason this is important is that you are who you associate with. Often those we associate with in high school are not pursuing the same goals which may deter you from achieving your goals. How so? Choosing a college based on where your friends plan to attend vs. degree program or cost can prevent you from achieving your dream. It is quite possible the friends you have in high school do not intend to graduate college and the draw to the path of least resistence is strong. It is important to immerse yourself in friendships that inspire you, challenge you, and encouage you to do more than you ever thought possible. Having a friend who reminds you why you are pursuing a college education may be the one thing that get you to graduation especially when taking core classes or while you are spending hours you do not have volunteering for free as a requirement of graduation. College friendships tend to be deeper and long lasting as compared to those from high school.

Ashley

Transitioning into college life is a very difficult time for most students and so looking back there are various bits of information that I would tell myself. Firstly ,my advice would be to thoroughly research the colleges you want to go to. You definitely don't want to make a rush decision and discover that the college you chose is completely the opposite of what you were looking for.. Also I would give myself the advice to take classes that will pertain to what you are planning to major in. I learned that many of the courses open to me in high school could have definitely helped for my classes this year because they give great background to many of the courses I am taking this semester. Lastly, my main piece of advice would have been to be prepared for anything and open your mind to new things. When transitioning into college many people go through an identity crisis. It is a new environment and new everything which allows you to reinvent yourself and be who you want to be. College is the beginning of who you will become as an adult, so make the most of it.

Katherine

Assuming that I could go back in time and talk to myself before college, there are a few things I should have been more prepared for. Initially, I would warn myself of a few mistakes commonly made; never underestimate any class even if you feel prepared for it, and first impressions of people do count but it is getting to know who they really are which is the most important. Secondly, I would tell myself not to be as stubborn. I have an auto immune disease that I do not like to admit is a weakness to my abilities. Therefore, I would tell myself not to overload my schedule, especially when just starting out at college and trying to stay healthy is a challenge on its own. I would then explain that my constant worry over situations will only cause more problems. If I had been able to tell myself these things, I may have listened and things may have changed. However, I feel that I went through all the things I went through for a reason, I may not know what that reason is yet, but I am still learning and more importantly, I am learning from my mistakes.

Jessalyn

I would definitely go back in time and tell myself many things that I wish I knew now. First of all, work harder! If you think you are working hard there is always something more that you can do to achieve. Second thing I would say, get involved! Many students don't care to put there time in at school because it doesn't matter to them since they are a senior and will be leaving school soon anyway but it does matter, even those little things can get you scholarships. The third and final thing I would say is, prepare! Don't wait until the last minute to do something, be assertive and take action. You don't even know how expensive college can be if you don't prepare. Scholarships are out there and if you don't apply then don't expect for them to just be dropped in your lap. It is always best to be prepared in any situation such as the transition from a high school senior to college because it is different no matter what anyone says. You are an adult now and it is time to take action.

Elizabeth

The first thing I would definitely tell myself is to start saving money like my life depended on it. Malone University is not inexpensive, and scholarships can only get you so far. I would tell myself to start delving a little deeper into my Bible, as I was not expecting to have my faith challenged as much as it has this past semester. I would say, "Hey, bud. You need to get as close to your friends now as you can, cuz there ain't no chance you're going to see them again any time soon." I would tell myself to prepare for the loneliness that accompanies going out on your own. The most important crumb of advice that I'd give to myself is to learn better study habits. I have never really had to study in high school, so the adjustment to the college setting where you must study everything in order to survive completely threw me out of the plane without a parachute. The frequent studying has greatly been a challenge for me, yet I have managed (by some great miracle) to get straight A's. I have needed to put more trust in God.

Jacob

I would tell myself to find out what I really love to do. I spent two years of my schooling doing something that I thought I loved but turned out that it was the last thing I wanted to do. I think I would tell myself to figure out what makes me happy and what I really enjoy and then do that. I would also tell myself to not settle for something, if you find the thing you love to do find the best place to go for that thing and then when you get there do it with everything that you have.

Cameron

If I were ever given the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a senior I would tell myself that I should look into the Field of Nursing and pray about it, God would show me the way he wanted my life to go. My senior year I was faced with the decision of what I wanted to do with my life just like any other senior, however, I didn?t know what I wanted my major to be. I knew that I wanted to help people but that was about the extent of it. I liked everything and I was a people person so there were plenty of opportunities. Now I am a sophomore at Malone University but I am only in my first year of Nursing; therefore leaving me three more years of school after this. That is why I would tell myself to look into Nursing and see what God has in store for me.

Hannah

Parents, make sure that you're not forcing your child to go to the school of your choice, but encourage them to make their own decision. It is hard to find the right school, but I would encourage parents to look at the school just as much as their child does, and to make a list of pros and cons on each school. Discuss these pros and cons together and compare them to the other schools. Students, schedule a visit day! That is the thing that clenched the decision for me. It's very important to actually see the campus and explore what it has to offer. To make the most of your college experience, find balance in your life. Take everything in moderation; yes, do your homework, but also make time for social life! Make goals for yourself and write them down, that way you can see them and hopefully be more accountable :) Work hard, treasure your friends, have fun, and when things seem to get too stressful, just take a deep breath and say a little prayer.

Kristin

First and foremost, go with the place that feels like home. This is where you are going to live for the next couple years, sleeping, eating, and hanging out. Are there people there you can relate to? Are there activities you would be thrilled to participate in? Make sure the program you are going into is certified and a good one, but if you don't know what you want to major in, see if the school will help you. How willing is that school to work with you, help you, and make sure that you loving being there? If you are shy, like I was, don't choose a large college where you can loose yourself and hide in a room. You'll need people who care about you, who will stay up until two in the morning playing Apples to Apples or anything else you're interested in. Also take advantage of events, which are usually free or discounted. With a group of friends to laugh over it, even the most boring things can be fantastic. Study hard, but have fun. This is an investment of your time, money, and brainpower, so don't waste it.

Corinne

There are a couple of words of advice I would like to give to parents/students looking at colleges: 1) Make sure you visit the campus before you decide to go there because every campus has its own personality and visiting will give you a feel of its personality. 2) When you visit talk to as many students there as you can about the college. Ask them what they like and don't like about that school and why they choose that school in particular. 3) To make the most of the college experience, within the first two weeks of school try to find a good group of friends because after the first two weeks people will have made their friends. 4) I say this again, be sure to make good friends because friends are what make school enjoyable or miserable. 5) Study because you are paying all that money for tuition so you can get a good education. So don't waste the money but learn as much as you can or want. 6) Study yes but also leave time to have fun. Too much studying will leave you very stressed.

Angela

When looking for the perfect college fit, look at the whole picture. It's okay to want it all; you can't be too picky. You probably want a school with strong academic programs, especially in the major area you plan to pursue. Or, if you're just looking for a good time, you want a school with a strong social atmosphere and at least decent academic programs. However, neither academic programs nor social atmospheres create the whole college experience. Take a look at the seemingly little things, as well. What is the area around campus like - booming metropolis, small college town? Take into consideration how well this matches up with what you've envisioned. Also, look for schools that have been friendly and overly helpful. Chances are, they will be the same when problems arise in your education. And believe me, problems will inevitably arise. Finally, talk to current students about their college experiences and relationships with professors. You'll want professors who are accessible and interested in their students. When you finally find the perfect fit, get involved. By investing yourself in what the school has the offer, you'll make the most of your college experience.

Joseph

Finding the right college does not start out with the college visits and frantic comparison of the pros and cons of potential schools. The search for the right school actually begins with the goals of the potential student. First and foremost, one must answer the question of whether or not has the need and desire to go to college. I have met too many students who have mistakenly thought they needed a college to be happy and successful in life; in reality they were miserable in college. That being said there are other reasons to attend college, and I would highly recommend a careful consideration of the benefits of higher learning before one makes their decision. After one carefully reviews there goals in life, then they can know which programs to compare when looking at potential schools. The social life is also very important since the it will be the home to the student for awhile, so it is vital to talk with the perspective school's students for a reasonably accurate picture of the social aspect. If these things are kept in mind, then the choosing the right school and ensuring the student's happiness is made somewhat easier.

Melissa

To parents and students: Do not put too much pressure on yourselves. It is so easy for a student to feel like they need to choose the perfect college and that if they don't, their whole experience will be ruined. Its okay if you don't feel "right at home" on your first day of school. It might take you a week or even a year to get comfortable in your new surroundings. It gets better. If it doesn't, its not the end of the world if you have to try a different school. This time is really hard on parents too. Most feel torn between helping their children and letting them go. Just let them know that you are there for them if they need you, that you are so proud of them, and that you trust them. Those are three things that many students find important. Finally, for students, try to get good grades but don't kill yourself if they don't come right away. Time management is something that is learned over time. Don't worry, it gets better as you go along!

Brian

When you are searching for the right college you have to take into consideration many factors. One of them is obviously how much it costs but you also have to look at the national recognition the school gets, class size, and the quality of the professors. But you also have to look at the size of the school and know what setting you will comfortable in. When you go on college visits, you have to look at the quality of the facilities, but also ask yourself "would I be comfortable living here?"

Abigail

Be open to making new friends. It is very helpful when you live on campus

Andrew

Take the time to look into many departments of the college not just the one that you are currently interested in, chances are that you will change your mind at some point in your college carreer.

Rebekah

I would encourage any college-seeking people to go online and google all the colleges that you're interested and/or has the program that you're looking for. If you're a people person, go to a big university, if you're a small town person who likes small town stuff then go to a small college. If you love the arts (theatre, art, music) then I suggest to find a really detailed good program. I am going to a Liberal arts college and I hate it because the theatre program is really small here. I hope that what you choose is the best and if it's not, transfer to another college. be thoughtful and careful of what you choose because it's possible that college isn't for you and you don't want to waste your money on it. If you're not sure that you can be college bound then take a chance and try it out. Don't be afriad to go out of state to college because it can be an adventure and you can learn a lot about people. Good luck!

Zane

Live. Take your time chosing where you want to be and know that it's okay to change your mind. Changing your school or major isn't a big deal, just live your life the way you need to so that you can have a happy life both in and out of college.

Rebekah

In order to find the right college, I feel that parents and students both need to check out the schools they are interested in thoroughly. They need to ask students, faculty, and staff every question they can think of to get the full and accurate opinion of the school. Once you find the school you're interested in, run with it. Once you get there though, to make the most of it, you have to make sure you get involved in things that highly or somewhat interest you. It's something you will never regret. Even if you didn't like it, you will wind up meeting great people and maybe even make a lasting friendship. Friendship and community is what makes your experience at college the most worthwhile, and if you don't have that, you'll have nothing.

Jessica

If you are looking for a nice friendly Christian college that is small yet growing and where the professors are there for you and willing to help you out then Malone might be the place for you. It is great to be active in the college. Malone offers a lot of activities to get involved in throughout the year. There are also concerts and theater performances that you can be involved in or just go and enjoy the show. Malone offers a lot of oppertunities to do a lot of different things.

Leanne

Students and parents, Please take this as advice to you: When choosing a college don't be afraid to try different schools that are not your first choice. Malone was not my first choice and I was really bitter when my mom made me come here, but as soon as I stepped foot onto the campus I fell in love. I enjoyed the tour and all the students stopping to say hi and to ask me what program I was looking into. Once I had considered all my college choices I sat down and wrote down all the positives and negatives for each college. I looked into major, class size, religion, dorming, cost, and resources available. Lastly, this is your choice so make sure you make the right one. Visit a college you are considering more than once and even see if you can stay overnight to see what the school is really like. Staying a night at your future school will show you how the students interact and what activities are available. College is a great place where you will make friends that last for a life time. Choose wisely and enjoy it!

Thomas

The right college may never be the college you THINK you want to or need to attend. Don't choose a college until you visit the campus and meet the people. Lacking facilities can easily be compensated for by a caring, competent staff and honest, helpful people. Meet the professors in your major or, if you are undecided, talk to the school's admission counselor about the strengths and weeknesses of each department. Making the most out of your college experience is completely up to you. Whether you are a partier or a prayer warrior, you will find community at most colleges if you know where to look. The hardest part is always balancing your academic and social lives. If you can find a middle ground that mixes proper amounts of both, they both seem to intertwine and mingle in such a way that they compliment each other. Your academic successes will cause you to socially prosper and your social life will give you the confidence and motivation to excell academically.

Rebecca

Don't submit yourself to the ideal college situation (Example Division I, Out-of-State, Ivy League School). Know yourself and rank what is important to you (God, Family, Friends, Career, Athletics, Boyfriend) and pick a school that will foster your growth toward those priorities. I made the first mistake the first time and transferred to a place I never considered my freshman year. I was so depressed then and I am so happy now. :)

Amy

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Michael

Dear Parents: Make sure your children feel comforatble wherever they end up attending. Make sure the school is not to party oriented because that leads to a lot of children dropping out. Make sure they enjoy where they are and can meet new people while staying career oriented.

Pete

I thought I found the right college when I was still in high school. After two years there and a lot of personal growth and changes in worldview and ideology, I realized that my "right school" was quite wrong for me. Be content, happy, and excited about your school. And don't make the mistake of just choosing one school like I did. Explore your options and visit those schools. See what is out there. Going away to school is one of the most exciting and unique times in your life. Do not underestimate the value of being away from home and your comfort zone and stepping into new community, new ideas, and challenging yourself to forge a worldview for yourself and discover who you are and what you want to do in the world.

Philip

For a high school student choosing the right college is probably the one of the most important decision they can make in their life. The four years after high school are probably the most influential years of your life where you being to think more independently and critically. Finding the school that best fits you is imperative in finding success. You really need to start looking early during high school and don't let anything hold you back from applying to any one school. Once you think you've found that school find other ones that are very similar to it and try to compare it on every level you possible can. If you have the chance stay a night with a student at that school and ask them and their friends as many questions, as you can think of, about their experience. The best way to choose the right school is to become educated about it: read and talk to others. Then once you get to school get involved and get to know as many friends, professors, and administration as you can. Make your life all about what you can get out of those precious four years.

Amanda

Talk to students that attned the college. Not just the ones that give you the tour and show you around the campus, but other students to get a good feel for what the college is really like.

Brittany

Wherever you choose to be is where you are meant to be. Don't be afraid to get involved and make the most of your time at college!

Ali

To students, I would say don't stress out too much. Finding a college can be very stressful, but if you are patient and do your research, you will soon be attending a college of your choice! And don't worry, you don't have to know what you want to major in to choose a college. Most of the students who are at college don't even know yet! There are many other things to look at when deciding on a college. The size of the classes and campus, location, credibility of faculty and staff, and extra-curricular activities are all things to research. When you have arrived at college, it can be overwhelming. All of the new classes, friends, homework, projects, assignments, due dates, and orientation activities can seem like too much to take all at once! But hang in there! To make the most of your college experience, get help when you need it; the professors and faculty are there to assist you. Make new friends, but don't forget about your old ones. Study hard. Call your Mom every once in awhile. Eat at least a FEW vegetables. And make time for some fun!

Kurt

Just remember that every school that you go to make the best of it and it will be the best thing that you could ever do believe me!

Juliya

Make sure that the college has exactly what your child wants to do for a major. Don't just get second best major, really pursue what that person wants to do. Also, do your best to get as many scholarships as you can because you never know when financial aid is going to give you enough money one year, or not enough the next. Make sure your son or daughter feels welcomed in the school and doesn't feel lonely or put aside.

Madison

Visit the campus, and if it doesnt feel like home, then its not right. Afterall, it will become your new home, your new life, and new part of you!

Krista

i would say just make sure that you get everything you want out of a college. make sure that it's a perfect fit and don't settle for something less just because its far away or convenient. also make sure you're happy with whatever you choose