Marquette University Top Questions

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

Maggie

Although the college years for some people can be "the best years of your life", if you enter it in a blind and confuseed fashon. Before entering a college you should have a carrerr goal set in mind and develope your own college mission statment of things you want to accomplish. Make sure you try any and every opportunity you get. Whether you succeed or not doesn't matter, because you won't get the chance to play around with so much and discover things once you are out and on your own. Live each day as it was you last.

Kylene

You have to visit campus and find a place that fits your personality. After all, it is going to be your home. Also make sure that if you know what your major is, you know that the school has a good program so you don't waste time in awful classes or end up having to transfer. To make the most out of the experience- get involved. Be open to making new friends and don't get too stressed out about school. You aren't suppose to be able to do all of the homework anyways!

Kevin

Don't choose something too expensive, unless your kid is really really smart, because they will mess it up and kill themselves

Kirsten

First of all, do some research on what school has a good program for what major you have in mind. Then visit several colleges that you feel would benefit you and see if you get a particular vibe. Ask yourself if you can see yourself going to school there. However, if it doesn't feel just right, don't rule it out. The idea of going there might grow on you later. Also, try for a few schools that you feel might be a stretch--they may surprise you. Make a chart of all the important aspects of each school and rate them to see where you feel you fit best. A bit of advice that really helped me is that after you decide on a school, if you wake up the next morning feeling sick about it, it probably isn't the best choice. When you get to school, get involved with as many different groups as you can and meet as many people as you can. This will help you feel at home much quicker than staying couped up in your dorm room.

Michael

Find a college that has what you want in life. Don't travel too far from home, because having your parents around will be invaluable . Also always remember where you came from and explore different things that you wouldn't think would interest you. For example, look into greek life even if you aren't interested in it. You might find something that fits your style and personality. Also, study hard but make sure to have fun and make good friends too. These are the best years of your life, so live them to the fullest.

Samantha

if your child is very career oriented come to marquette. there is no other school as upbeat and foward looking than this school. its the best and worth the money. just dont let your child choose a stupid major because those students tend not to work as hard knowing their major is for slacking. it is very easy to major in multiple areas. I am majoring in accounting, international bus, and span. I studied abroad last summer and it was awesome. there are tons of oppertunities at marquette. most people take advantage of them.

Joanna

To students, simply be yourself and be open minded. This applies to both looking at colleges and beginning your college experience. While the two ideas may seem a bit contradictory, they are both important to making the most of your experiences. Hold on to the person you are when you enter college, but be open to the experiences that this chapter in your life will offer you. Join a club you may not have before. Try out a sport you didn't play in high school. Attend campus sponsored events. Get involved in a movement you feel passionate about. Strike up a conversation with someone even if you are shy. Let these experiences further mold you and allow you to set the tone for the rest of your life. And most of all, go into college with a smile. It may be frightening at first and it will be a lot of work, but allow yourself to enjoy all what college has to offer: the friends, the clubs, the sports, and the events which will make the four years you spend at college memorable. And parents... don't worry and watch your student grow!

Stephanie

Highly recommend the students shadow and do an overnight at the university.

Molly

Finding a college while still in high school may seem like mission impossible. How are high school students suppose to know where they would be happy attending college, if they have never attended the college? My advice is to think about your values in life. For most people, this narrows to four values: family, friends, a bright future, and having fun. So, make sure you pick a college where you will be able to communicate with your family. Pick a college where you see yourself branching out to meet new, potentially lifelong friends. Also, pick a college where you will get the education you need to thrive in the future. Finally, pick a college where you can have fun in and out of the classroom. For example, if you enjoy sports, then find a school that has an intramurals program and school spirit. To make the most of your college experience, go in with an open mind. No matter what, you will feel outside your comfort zone at first. Feel like finding the right college is a guessing game? It is. But that is part of the beauty of the college experience: taking that first step and seeing what happens!

Maggie

In order to find the right colloege visit all the ones you are considering and make sure to stay overnight. Also, read online descriptions because some are schockingly accuarte. To make the most of your college experience be open to making new friends and listening to new ideas.

emily

i would suggest that you need to chose what is right for you. You can not know from just visiting a school whether it will be the school of your dreams, but you can make it that. It is up to you to decide whether you are going to like the school or not and whether you will make the most of it or not. It is important to do school work and learn as much as you can in the classroom, but what happens outside of the classroom is what you will really remember. Friends make your college experience and you will find those anywhere. The good education is just an added bonus. Remember that you live in an open book world and that you will not need to memorize or remember what muscle originates where or that calculus equation that has thirty variables because you can use your resources in order to find the answer. That is the best advice i would offer to incoming freshmen and their parents.

Nathaniel

Be aware of what each college has to offer both academically and socially, take all advantages and opportunties presented. Never be afraid to shoot high and dream big.

Sarah

Dont hold back, but also realize what is most important to you. If family is most important, make sure you are close to home. If you believe your career is the most important, go to the school with the best of what you plan to do. If you are unsure, go to a smaller liberal arts college. Just make sure to know what is most important for your own self and do not let anybody effect your decision.

cait

give it a chance, if you enroll and dont like, dont just leave, attemp to make the best at it, becuase it morelikely the person than the school

Susan

If you don't know what you want to be, that's great. Embrace it, and make sure you pick a school that will allow you to figure out what you want to do. Find a school that treats you as an individual, and helps to guide you in your journey to your future. Remember that individuals are what make up the world. Don't lose yourself trying to be like other people. Learn from other people, and teach others a thing or two as well. Being involved is the greatest way to meet people. So get involved! Do things you love, and always make time to enjoy the college you are attending. Grades are important, but the experience will be with you forever. Take tons of pictures, and call your family.

Matthew

Look at every college possible and talk to current students that are attending the school in both the desired major and other majors.

Laurie

Look up what the students say about the school. The students know more about going to school there than magazines like US World Report.

Claire

I would highly suggest getting involved. That is the best way you can meet friends and get to know people. There are so many clubs and groups to get into. This is how you meet people that has similar interest as you and how you can make life long friends. Also, stay focused and do not get lazy with your school work. It is very important to maintain a good GPA so you can get a decent job when you graduate. Do not take for granted the opportunity to go to college. A lot of kids would kill to be in your position. Find a college that suits you and your interest, and try to make the most of it!!

Emerson

Your parents may say to choose the college of your choice and then you'll all worry about the cost later on. This should not be done; money is a very important thing in todays world and should play a large role in how you choose what is right for you.

Colleen

Find a school that is going to help you achieve your dreams, even if you aren't positive about what you want for your career -- find a school that can help you advance yourself in several fields (incase you change your mind). Make sure to make use of local scholarships, and find out about different scholarships offered by the university. Take a college visit and get familiar with the areas around the college campus -- you'll have free time during school to get to know the city you are living in so make sure it's worth getting to know!

Gina

I would tell parents and students to visit the school, ask questions and really get a feel for the campus. Ask yourself if you can imagine yourself really growing and being able to call the school your very own, your home. You want to make sure you find a school where you will be comfortable and happy spending the next two/four years of your life. Also, be sure to find out how the school will cater to your needs. Does the school have activites and clubs that you enjoy? If you want to be a nurse, if you want to go pre-med, or if you want to be a dance major, find out how the school will help you accomplish your goals and help you succeed. Each school has a different personality and excels in different areas. You have to do your research and make sure that you find and invest in the right match for you and your future.

Emily

I would reccomend that families take a tour of the campus and meet with an advisor in their anticipated major. After doing this, I knew that I had found the perfect school! At college, enjoy! Get involved in anything and everything that interests you. Get to know your professors and do anything you can in your major. Take classes in your major as soon as possible and do what you love.

Michael

Pick a college that is known for the field you want to go into. Look into professional and career-oriented organizations on campus.

Jessica

Be particular when it comes to choosing a college. No matter what the brochures or current students tell you, remember: they have already made their choice. This is your choice, and you have to make sure that the schools you're considering offer what you really want out of college. For example, diversity is very important to me -- it inspires me, and I like to learn from differences. When I chose my college, I didn't consider diversity at all. I bought into details such as campus size, social opportunities, campus food and housing... the list goes on, but diversity wasn't on it. I am happy at my school, but it offers almost no diversity. Most of the people I meet come from similar backgrounds. I will always wish I had taken the time to research what was most important to me. Be true to what is really important to you, and don't get lost in all the details.

Meghan

Choose a school that you really like and feel you would do the best in. The most important thing is that you are comfotable at your school.

John

You really have to find the place that firts you the best. I thought I wanted a big state school, but when I went to visit the University of Iliinois, and saw how big the campus was, and the size of the classrooms. I just felt that I would not be heard. Marquette is a good size school, not too big or too small. It is close enough to home and its very socially engaging. No matter where you go, you have to be happy, afterall, you will be spending at least 4 years of your life there.

Cooper

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Jake

Do research about the city and things to do in the city or college town. Make sure you are educated on the majors and career possibilities at the university and most of all go somewhere you will be happy.

Cheryl

Really explore what your goals are and the direction you want to go career-wise before picking a specific program!

Joseph

Really take into account what type of campus you want (ie city or rural). Also visit the school, get a feel for the people and the surrounding areas. Have fun and good luck

Claire

The most important thing to consider when looking at schools is the cost, the environment, and how well you would fit there. I have a friend who does not like Marquette because he doesn't fit in, he didn't consider these things. When I chose Marquette, I was prepared for what I would find, and I love going to my classes each day and I love having fun on the weekends. I have found life-long friends here, along with the experiences and the education that will give me a bright future. These are the things that every person should look at. The location is important too. Living at home is nice, but at the same time you will miss out on a lot of experiences on campus, friends, and actvities. Living in the dorms was an experience I would never trade, and my parents are only a 2 hour train ride away. So each person should choose a school based on the location, cost, environment, and their ability to find a place amongst their peers. College is a great experience, so good luck to each!

Kelly

For parents, take time and talk to your child. Discuss what they want to do and encourage them when you both feel that the major your child chooses is the right one. Supporting them makes a big difference. And do not be disappointed if they change their mind about their major once they are in school. For students, keep an open mind about schools. Visiting colleges makes all the difference. Focus on which school YOU feel comfortable with. Your parents should have a say in the school, but you will be the one there for 4 years, so go where you think you will be comfortable and succeed. To make the most of the college experience, try different things. Get involved in at least one thing. If you don't like it, don't go back, but at least branch out. Keep an open mind about what to expect. If you are shy like I was, force yourself to socialize and do things to get out of your dorm room. And if you are ever struggling with any of the schoolwork, talk to your teachers because they will listen and try to accomadate you. Just enjoy it.

Cory

For one, the largest concern is for you to like the school, it's activities it provides, and it's surrounding. You are the one who is going to attend that university for four years and therefore, should like the campus. College is also very expensive but if you work very hard and take out enough loans, any destination is possible. To make the most of your college experience is simply, get out, have some fun, and try everything. You are only young once, so just have fun and learn as much as you possibly can. Don't live life by asking what if but by asking what is. But also remember, that you must work hard for the things you want in life. So although you should try to have as much fun possible, you must still focus on your schoolwork and getting good grades because in the end it will definitely pay off. Good luck!

Dylan

All I can offer is that I chose not to attend College immediatley after graduation because I felt I was not ready. Had I not taken the break, I might have chosen a major that was not challenging and used the rest of my time to drink and pine. Instead, I am here, ready for most if not all of my school's academic and emotional challenges. To parents, I would suggest letting their child be financially independent. Personally, I would not have the same drive to succeed if I was not responsible for the cost of my education. I aim for the best bang for my buck, so to speak, and truly get the most out of this experience. Finally, good luck.

Tim

Visit the college. Just by visiting, you'll know whether the school will be a good fit or not. When you're there, take advantage of every opportunity that comes up, and seek them out. You'll regret it later if you don't.

Steven

Find genuine people...fellow students and professors. Make sure you feel at home on campus and in the town. Don't compromise anything you want either.

Tim

Be sure you visit an upper classman before you decide, spend a weekend with them to get a real feel of what school and social life is like on campus.

Kimberly

It is very important to find a school that not only has the major you are looking for, but stands for the values and morals that you believe in. A college and it's community become your home for four years, and it is important to find a school that suits your needs, desires, and goals in life. To make the most of a college experience, you need to branch out of your comfort zone. College is an opportunity to try new things, to make new friends, to truly find yourself as a person. This is a great chance to experiment in different activities and clubs before you get out into the real world. College is definitely a time of adjustment. It is scary to leave home for the first time, but just remember, you aren't alone. Speak up, try new things, meet new friends, and don't forget to pick up a book or two! It's all well worth it.

William

Try everything. Even if you think you know what you want, chances are you don't. Don't be afraid of new experiences. College is a very unique time of your life. Do not waste time stressing over little insignificant details. On the other hand don't go crazy. It is a delicate balance.

John

My advice to students for finding the right college to attend is not to focus on prestige alone. I went to a preparatory school for high school, where a large potion of my class now attend Ivy League schools. I knew that those schools would not be a good match for me and I applied to schools where I thought that I would be the most happy and still have a great academic experience. Look around and you will be surprised at the schools that you can find. Once you're in college make sure that you don't blow it on parties. Definitely go and have a good time, but keep in mind that you are there for school to get a good job. Find that balance between the party and social scene and the work. That is what will keep you happy in college and that is also what will give you a great job when you graduate.

Lisa

A private school might not necessarily provide a better education, it might just cost more money. And religious based schools, surprisingly, are very conservative.

Peter

Tour as many campuses as you can. Really get a feel for what it's like to be a student. All the quantifiable things about a school aren't nearly as important to the qualifiable in the long run. Love the school. Follow your gut.

Elizabeth

Go with your gut--I did, and it has paid off. Go to a school with a settled resolve--whether that's how you really feel or not. Confidence is all it takes in adjusting to college. Be confident in who you are, and in where you've chosen to go to school. Everything is what you make it.

Dave

If i could give any advice i would say pick a school based on what is best for your future, because the rest (dorms, friends social life, extracurriculars and location) usually come with certainty of future and confidence in where you are in life

Shauna

I would advise them to visit many different colleges and universities. If they're very undecided then look at big ones, small ones, cities, countries, private, state schools etc. If they know exactly what they're looking for in a school i would still advise to search around and see as many as you can so you're sure the right decision is being made. When in college I would advise to be as involved as possible. I personally know first hand how many opportunities one can pass up by not being sociable. College is also very expensive so stay focused and make the most of your money. It's important to have fun and make college a memorable experience, but you're paying the thousands of dollars for the degree, not the partying or drinking. Finally, be open minded and come in with a good attitude. College isn't going to be fun if you don't want it to be. Give it a real chance by joining clubs or sports before you decide it's not for you. By getting involved and staying on top of your school work college will be fun on its own.

Kelsey

Visit a school before you apply, before I looked at them there were 9 schools I wanted to apply to. When I actually looked at some, I knew for a fact they would not be right for me. And even if Mom and Dad really want you to go there, you have to do what's right for you. Colleges are like shoes, there's no point in spending all that money if you're not going to be comfortable in them.

Mary

Do what makes you feel happy. I believe that is the best advice anyone can provide about the college experience. If you aren't happy then nothing will matter: your grades, your extra-curriculars, and anything else. All these things will just seem routine and you will lose you passion for what you use to care about. Embrace the college atmosphere and do your personal best. Accoriding to Marquette's moto, "Be the Difference." I truly strive to live byt his motto because as simple as it is, one flap of a butterfly's wings can cause a hurricane halfway around the world. In college, flap your wings and be creative. Innovate and apply yourself. Being your personal best makes you happy, and the bottom line is, that is all that anyone ever asks for. College lets you be able to do it, don't pass it by.

Jennifer

Don't give the brochures too much credit. Nine times out of ten, the brochure is more appealing than the school. Professionals are hired to make schools look good. The only way you're going to know if a school is right for you is if you dive in and see what the campus is about. Visit the campus, sit in on a lecture, talk to the students and pick up a campus newspaper. If you can, visit on a weekday during the semester so you can really get a feel for what life is like when classes are in session. Start your freshman year undeclared. Take advantage of electives to narrow down your options once you're in school and avoid becoming a fifth-year senior. You won't start taking major-related courses until sophomore or junior year, so don't worry about being behind the ball. Don't rely too heavily on major-related high school courses (like marketing or accounting); while they're great courses to take, they can be misleading. College courses are much harder and highly specialized, just because you enjoyed accounting in high school doesn't guarantee you'll enjoy it in college.

Daniel

Start early, visiting schools and looking into possible major programs., getting a jump on the college search means less pressure when deadlines begin to creap up. Also look for a school that appeals to you and your interests don't settle for anything less.

Sarah

Visiting the campuses was the deciding factor in choosing which school I ended up attending. Try to talk to as many past or current students as possible to get a realistic picture of what university life is like. Once you get there, GET INVOLVED! Join a club, sports team, political group, dance class, anything...meet people with varied interests and watch your life change.