Marietta College Top Questions

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

Emily

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself to slow down. Throughout my years in college, I have lived a life of packed daily schedules and running from one activity to another without a chance to breathe. Although I like staying active and involved in my school and community, there is such thing as too involved. I think if I could go back in time, I would remind myself that I can say “no” to activities. I believe it is important to be involved on campus. Getting involved in organizations and school events creates a feeling of interconnectedness among fellow students and community members. At the same time, being too involved and overbooked actually hinders the positive effects of campus activities. During college, when I was too involved, I created more stress than necessary, and I missed the opportunities to truly enjoy my activities because I was too concerned worrying about the next thing on my daily schedule. If I had the opportunity to go back in time, I would tell myself to slow down and to take the opportunity to stop and smell the roses.

Sara

If I could give the high school me advice, I'd definitely say to develop good study habits. I'm smart and I grasp concepts quickly, but I don't retain as much as I could because I don't study very much. I lack the discipline it takes and the belief that studying IS actually accomplishing something--it isn't just a waste of time. I objectively know this, but I have problems putting it into practice. I've also never really had "study buddies", so that's another studying skill set that I've been missing out on. So I'd tell myself to study for my hardest classes (which also could have resulted in a higher GPA and class rank). Another piece of advice I'd give myself is to try to be more involved in my school and community. There admittedly weren't a ton of opportunities to get involved in my hometown, but I also usually didn't take advantage of the opportunities that were there. I said I was too busy or lazy or didn't know anyone. Since then, I've learned that getting involved is just part of life.

Brittany

I would encourage myself to take more post secondary courses while in high school because it really helped me out. I would also tell myself to help others and spread the work about taking post secondary classes because they were really helpful and helped me prepare for colle coursework so much better than regular high school classes.

Thera

What I would like to have done differently is to be more social. When I first started college, at age 17, I stayed to myself a lot. I truly had only 3 people that I would talk to. I think it is important to make friends if you want to get the most out of the college experience. I will never have another chance to expeirience being out on my own for the first time. Studying is important too but I really wish I would have gotten to know more people.

Aaron

Dear Aaron, I know you're nervous about going to college and how you might do academically once you get there. Don't worry! Do exactly what your parents told you to do and you'll be fine. If you stay enthusiastic about your education, students and faculty will be drawn to you to aid you in any way they can. By staying positive, you can do anything. Always try and go the extra mile, many students around you will be trying to figure a way out of the first mile, let alone the second. Additionally I know how dedicated you, are so take this to heart: don't be afraid to take a break — there IS such a thing as over-studying! Moreover, make an effort to develop a personal relationship with each of professors. You will get so much more out of a personal education. Finally, don’t be afraid to participate. When you have a question, make sure to ask! Be courageous! Each question asked in class usually represents ten other students! When you’re curious, enthusiastic, and determined college will come naturally to you. Hard work beats talent every time, but enthusiasm is the ultimate victor.

Kate

The transition to college from high school is not as easy as most think. Although I am very independent, it took time for me to ajust. And while you making new friends, learning how to do laundry, and feeding yourself for the first time, grades can take a back burner on the list of things to do in the day. The most important thing to remember is yes get involved, make new friends, make forever memories but get ahead in school work so you don't fall behind.

Brittany

Take pride in everything that you do. Study hard and try to acheive everything you can in high school, this in turn will help you when applying for colleges and scholarships. Take your time and choose the college that best fits you. If attended a small high school possibly consider smaller university college. This will help you be comfortable with the big step of college.

Elizabethann

I would advise myself to take more duel enrollment classes as a senior. I would also tell myself to say goodbye to the high school boyfriend earlier, so I could enjoy my senior year stress free. Another piece of advice i'd have for myself would be to try to get more involved in my school so I could create more lasting friendships.

Shawn

If I could go back in time and talk to myself I would advise myself to invest money in microsoft and apple, then I would say study abroad a semester every year so that I could see the world more and learn about different cultures. I would advise myself to say away from certain people and I would say call home every week and make more road trips home and to visit family members.

Tristine

Do not take all of your crap to school. You won't need it, and it's not going to fit in the car on the way back home.

Breea

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior now I would tell myself to schedule time wisely. Always plan far in advance, as in a month, for assignments and tests. In college you need a lot of time to study, more time than I could have imagined then. Therefore sleep is minimal, but if you plan in advance it makes things a lot easier and less stressful. I would also tell myself to be prepared to put academics first but try to get some sleep. If you do not sleep enough and rely on too much caffiene for energy you will end up with a kidney infection. That would definitely be the most important thing about adjusting to college, be able to plan in advance so you can get some sleep because without it you are going to make yourself sick, seriously. Lastly, I would tell myself to not sweat the small things and take that 12:00 a.m. trip to the Omlette Shop with your friends because its those few fun moments that keep you sane.

Jessica

I would tell myself to prepare for the work load better. I can admit that in high school I did not apply myself as much as I could hve. My grades were good enough, but since I have been at college I have stepped up and my grades show it. I also would have told myself to take advantage of every single opportunity. My freshmn year I was scared to audition for choirs and other things that were offered to me. My sophmore year I joined some of therm (as many as my schedule would allow) and I have had an amazing time. I wish I would have gone for these opportunities sooner. I have met so many friends through concert choir and band, both of which I didn't join until later, and I regret not being a part of it sooner. Most of all I would have told myself not to worry so much. I was scared to leave home and be on y own for the first time, but I love it here and have never been happier in my life. I could have saved myself a lot of trouble by not worrying in the first place.

Olivia

Through my college experience I have made life long friends that I know will be with me through any situation. I have also expanded my knowledge a great deal in just the short time I have been here.

Chandra

Being in college is the most wonderful thing that I've experienced. I have met so many different types of people and have been able to see the world through other people's eyes. Each day I would go to class and during our discussions I would hear how each person saw a topic differently. Instead of being told that there is only one way to think I was able to open up my mind and become a better person from it. By hearing from people who have all had different experiences I've been able to get a clearer view of how I think and how I want to live. Some people see college as just furthering their education, but it's really the people that teach you the most, not the textbooks.

Alexis

I have got a lot out of my college experience so far. I have become much more responsible and independent. The teachers treat you like adults and you are forced to grow up quickly. which is a good thing. My abilities get tested every day in class and I am pushed to reach my highest potential. I plan on attending law school after I graduate, a dream that most of my teachers back in high school thought was far-fetched. However, my professors at college incourage my aspirations and give me the confidence I need to be successful in achieving my goal. I have also met some amazing people from all around Ohio, as well as the nation and the world. I wouldn't trade my experience at college for anything.

Melissa

I have gotten a sense of individuality, but also a knowledge of how much people can actually care for each other from my college experience. Marietta opened my eyes to new horizons, and showed me a way to express my freedom in the safe-nuturing enviroment of a learning community.

Stephanie

I am very glad that I've gone to college because my interests have expanded, and I've realized that there is a lot more to being an English Major than reading. I've also met many decent people that have helped me through the tough transition, and that have helped expand and broaden my mind. College is truly a growing experience, and I'm growing into a better person because I decided that it was right for me.

Lauren

My college experience has been more than words can express. Before coming to college I had so many expectations. To be completey honest I knew I could come to college and do whatever I wanted, and I fully intended on taking advantage of that fact. However, once I actually arrived at college, everything changed. I realized that it wasn't all fun and games, and just as my high school teachers had warned, the work was indeed harder. Like keep you awake til three o'clock in the morning hard. College has made me grow up very fast. Not to the point where I don't know how to have fun, but I know how to balance my life. I have valued every second of my time here and everything I have learned. The professors are amazing, and always available to help. I owe my maturation into the person I am today to Marietta College.

Brad

The transition from high school to college is sometimes difficult for students, but my experiences here at Marietta College have provided an easy transition into a new environment. I have been in this college environment for over one semester now and I appreciate the dedication of my high school teachers to prepare me for college, both academically and socially. I was very successful in high school, but there has been several differences between these two academic environments that I was not prepared for before college. I believe one of the most important aspects of college that must be understood is that the only way to receive good grades is to work extremely hard and dedicate yourself. The grades that I received here at the college the first semester were worse than my usual grades in high school. I was upset about the grades I received, but then I understood that in college you have to dedicate yourself to achieve your goals. Sometimes I think about the reason why I dedicate myself and I have realized that my future depends on how I do in college. My future is very important to me and I am future driven.

Brittany

I would tell myself to study harder learn how to take tests and write essays better. Pretty much all you do in college is take exams and write papers. I would want myself to get a good work ethic. At college its totally different from high school, its tougher and unlike teachers in high school the ones here won't help you if your failing.

Jessica

If I had the chance to give myself, as a high school senior, advice, I would tell her the importance of balancing a social life, academic success, and sleeping in college. College is a time when you are finally free! That moment that you've waited for for your entire life, but now what do you do with said freedom? The temptation of wasting time, partying, and not doing school work creeps up on you and no one is there to baby you into making good decisions. Welcome to the World of Adulthood! First and foremost, you are at college to earn a degree, so make academics your focus: but do not become a hermit. Get out and have fun when your assignments are completed. Make sure that you have fun in a respectable manner, or you'll get a repution that will stick with you. Sleeping is crucial to your health, so make sure that you allot time to get at least five or six hours a night. With this said, remember that life is 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} what happens to you and 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} how you deal with it. Keep your head held high and nothing can bring you down!

Jacob

Well one i would tell my self to pick this college sooner. But also to study and focus on classes more. To not get caught up in hanging out with people untill my class work is done for the day. Also to talk more with teachers as they are very willing to help you and talk you through things. The rest i would leave for myself to learn as it is one more part of the college learning experience. But don't do anything too stupid, you'll know when.

Rachel

Go with your gut. For the students: choose the school that YOU want. You don't want to spend the next 4 years attending a school you don't want to be at, regretting every moment. Also, Financial Aid is a HUGE must.

Ethan

Parents and students should have an objective list made of what they want in a college and then they should research thier choices to determine which college/university fits the most criteria. Never choose a school based upon one aspect alone.

Amanda

The first thing that a student schould do is think about the size of the college they want to attend. I for instence went to a very small high school, only graduating 77 in my class, so I wanted to go to a small college. That is not for everyone though, some students do better at a larger University. One just has to consider what they really want out of their college exsperience. Once the decision has been made about size one needs to look at majors and minors to make sure the college offers what they are interested in. There is no point in going somewhere with majors that are of no interest, even if they are not sure what they want to go into. Finally a family has to take in consideration how much finacial aid a college will give them. If there is a school offering a full ride it would be crazy to pass that up, but again if they do not have anything there that interests the student then whats the point? A student really needs to decide for themself and choose a school that just feels right, and trust me you will know!

Kim

It can be a very stressful time, but whatever you do, don't get discouraged. There's a right college out there for you somewhere, so make sure to schedule a lot of college visits, and really take in what all the different school have to offer. At those college visits, pay attention and ask questions so you really get to know what the school is all about. When it comes time to actually go to college, don't be worried at all. You will meet many new people with your same interests, and the first few days may seem hard, but after that it just all falls into place. My best advice would be to get involved on campus. From my experience, those who are involved seem to have a lot more fun and success. Join a sports team, an extracurricular team or club or a sorority/fraternity. Do all you can to get involved. All those things help you make great new friends, and give you an excellent support system. My first year of college would not have been the same without my sport and my sorority in my life. Be active, have fun and study hard!

Stephanie

The college experience differs for many people. However, some of the fundamental experiences students encounter include interaction with professors and involvement in extra curricular activities. For me, it was important that I was a person and not a number to my professors and as a result I chose a small liberal arts college. To make the most out of the college experience I would advise getting involved and not being afraid to jump in. To parents my biggest recomendation is to research the subject your child is interested in and check out the alumni network and the professors that will work with them. If students have a difference of opinion with their professors many problems can occur. I would also strongly recommend visiting the college and speaking to as many students as possible to discover how friendly and happy they are there. College can be a wonderful experience and making the right choice is vital, therefore I would also advise that parents talk extensively to their children about what they want. It is extemely encouraging to have family behind you for such a difficult decision so maintain open communication and support.

Jessica

The advice that I would give to parents and students in finding the right college is to visit all of the colleges that you are considering attending. Visiting the campus and seeing the culture, the people, and the environment/surroundings is the only way to know if the campus "feels right". In order to make the most of your college experience, you need to get involved, not just in clubs on campus, but also in volunteering for your community. Volunteering really makes you feel good and also makes you feel like apart of a group as well as the community.

Isaiah

Parents and students trying to find the school with the best fit for the student should definateily research schools on the internet, to find the one with the criteria they're looking for, somewhere they want to go. Criteria, first and foremost should be the major that they want, if they've decided on one. Then when they've narrowed down the list to maybe four, to go visit these schools. The school the student likes the best after considering all their wants, should select it.

Mallory

Explore, explore, explore. Don't be afraid to ask questions and talk to current students--that's where you'll find the best information. And actually, current students like talking about their school. Attend open houses and orientations in order to meet other prospective students. Join campus clubs and organizations that interest you--it's a great way to meet new people. Enter college with an open mind and flexibility--I've found that these years have been my biggest transition period, and I've learned a lot about myself. Don't be afraid to be yourself. Form relationships with your professors from the very first day--you never know when you'll really need their help, and most professors are eager to learn more about you. Develop good time, stress, and money management skills right from the beginning. Trust me--this statement is often drilled into prospective students' heads to the point that it goes ignored, but it's very important. Spend enough time on your academic work to be as successful as you can, but don't neglect yourself. Take time out to spend with friends or for your favorite activity. College is fun!

Amanda

When parents are helping their children look for the right college there are many things they have to take into consideration. The first thing that needs to be considered is what the student wants out of their college experience. If the student has already chosen a major, then obviously they need to find a college that offers that major. Also, if the student wants to participate in sports they should understand that they have the option between varsity and intramurals. However, if the student has not chosen a major or to play sports then their options are endless. When picking a college, the interests of the student are the most important. For example if they want to get involved in a study abroad program then they should find a college that offers that option. It is essential that the student go to every college they are considering to see what the campus is like and possibly stay over night. In doing this the student can decide where they feel the most comfortable. Finding what college fits them and taking advantage of what that college has to offer will enhance their college experience.

Britt

A system that really worked out for me after I was accepted into the schools I wanted was to make over night visits. It gave an excellent perspective as to what life was like on campus during the weekend and it also gave you an idea on what social life was like during the week based on how they behaved on the weekends. From there you can really get a closer picture as what to expect from your experience at that college. My biggest advice to make the most of your college experience is be open to new things. Just because it's new and different and maybe even a little bit odd does not mean that you should turn it down because you don't know if you'll like it or not. Get involved and be adventurous and take chances you weren't willing to take in high school because you are your own person in college and the only one who can judge you is yourself so GO FOR IT!

Jacob

When looking for a college think of what you are after in a college, big or small, what classes and activities you want. Then visit your choices, some you will just click with.

Kristina

Finding the right college is a hard decision between parents and students, since the "right" college for a student could be too expensive, or the parent may have a particular college in mind that the student isn't interested in. I dealt with this dilema when looking for colleges, and the most important thing is finding a perfect compromise. FastWeb Scholarships is a helpful tool that allows you to browse through colleges based on the size and your interests and preferred major. Go to college fairs together and gather all of the information you can and sort through it at home. If the student wants to go away, but mom thinks it's too far from home, maybe you can work out a deal. You can talk on the phone, write letters, or send your student packages(because nothing is more exciting that getting mail in your student mailbox!). But parents, if your child goes away to college, don't turn their room into a storage closet and burn their furnature for firewood.

Peter

Make sure it is the right place for you. The size and atmosphere of the institution really matters. It matters so you can adapt without any problems and make it the best experience of your lfie.

Rosa

I would strongly suggest that parents let their children make their decision. I was fortunate to work for admissions while at Marietta College, and many parents wanted their students to attend Marietta College, but the students didn't have a passion for the college. I would also suggest that undecided students attend a liberal arts college, where they can experiment with different courses and gain greater experience. Lastly, I recommend visiting the college or university, so many people decide they want to attend a college based on their colors, athletic teams, or a percieved idea about the colleges or university's name. Many colleges allow students to stay overnight, which also increases the chance of the student making the best choice.

Jenna

The college experience is the most important step in ones life as they mature to a young adult. Parents need to look into what is financially affordable but yet a sound academic institution. Individuals need to also not be affraid of having loans. In this day and age, it is rare for one to not obtain a loan to attend college. A student will know as soon as they step on to a campus what feels likes home to them. Also, find an institution that contains a couple career options, students WILL change their mind. It is devistating to see a friend, a former student, leave a school that they love socially and as a community, but it does fulfill their academic needs. Their is an institution out their that will balance everyones needs and goals in life.

Rachel

Keep in mind what you want. Don't make a decision based on your friends/family. I always say that the student will know where they fit in from the moment they step on the campus. Visit campuses and ask questions. Being an Orientation Leader, I love it when students ask questions about campus activities.

Jamie

Let your bloody kids pick the college, even if it is expencive! A cheap school is not usually the best school. College visits/stayovers are a good way to get an experience when the parents aren't there. Stay with friends not sports teams.

Christi

I think it is purely based upon a feeling within the student. That is why it is so important to visit campuses before choosing which school to attend. I visited about twenty different campuses of all sizes and locations, and it was not until I stepped foot on Marietta's campus and felt a feeling of welcomness and comfort that I decided on which college to attend. To make the most out of your college experience you must have the right attitude. It is easy to go out and party every night, forgetting about your future, but you will have a rude awakening. If you think about what you want out of life and how your actions today can help you achieve that later, you will set yourself up to succeed. When life gets tough, finals stress you out, and home seems so far away, take your mindset from "I cannot do this anymore" to "Life could be a lot worse". Life is much easier when you focus on what is going right and what you do have rather than what you do not. Make lifelong friends, have fun, but most importantly, do what you came to do--become somebody.

Charles

Vist the campus and try to meet the students maybe eat at the dining hall or attend a class. These are the pople you will spend 4 years with so you should probally meet them to see if you like them. And just make sure you visit the campus.

Andrew

The number one thing for any parent or student to do when looking for a college is to first stop worrying about money. There are plenty of scholorships and grants and loans that you should be able to find the money. Secondly look at as many colleges as you can, and that means actually visiting the college and if you can talk with the students, and see what they have to say, especially alumni. Try also to look at the curriculum and what classes you'll be required to take.

Krystyna

I would tell a student to follow their heart and figure out if they would rather attend a small school or a big school. Look at a college by themselves without a campus tour guide and try to imagone yourself on the campus, if you cannot imagine yourself there at the school, then the school is not right for you. Location is everything, if you want to go to school in the city, do not go to a rural school. The best advice: NEVER go to a school because your friends or your companion is attending a specific school. Attend a school because you love it, because you want to spend 4+ years there. College is amazing, especially if you pick the right one.

Elicia

First, figure out if you want a small or big school. Then find a school with a lot of majors so you can choose and rechoose if you want to. Read articles about colleges. Apply early!!! Talk and network with alumni and professors once you're there.