Marshall University Top Questions

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

Samantha

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself many things. One being to imporve my study habits. In high school I was never the one who needed to study to maintain my B+ average, and because I hardly ever studied I had a hard time adjusting to the demands of my college professors. Another thing I would tell myself is to not let any one hold you back. I shouldn't let anyone keep me from living my life. I need to meet people and make sure that my college life is all that i want it to be and more. The last thing I would tell myself is to make sure my parents realize how much I appreciate them. It was only unilt I made it to college that I realized how much they have done. They go above and beyond to make sure I have evertything I need. They make sure that I have many opportunities in my future.

Myndi

My most useful advice to myself would be to calm down. Before going to college, I was absolutely terrified of it and convinced that my college experience would be like the ones portrayed in movies - all drinking, partying, and football games with no one who is career-motivated and definitely no learning. In reality, yes, there are some students like that, but the vast majority are the exact opposite. College is the best experience I've had thus far and I wish I hadn't been so terrified of it.

Haily

Having completed my first semester of my freshmen year I understand some of the challenges of adapting to college life. Assuming that I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school I would have a few pointers to give. I would start off my conversation by advising that I should take studying habits more seriously. In collegeone must study about the same amount of time that they spend in lectures. There is no way to learn the material other than to sit down and study hard. Associated with better studying habits I would also advise myself to learn better time mangement skills. I know I have heard this pointer most of my life but it really hit home when I had to go to lectures, then set aside time to study along with social time. This was one of the hardest things about college to adjust too, but once I got the hang of things I was able to make the best of my college experince. I would use this conversation to make myslef a better student and to insure that my future will be everyhting I plan and want it to be.

Ashley

If I could speak to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I do now about college, I would encourage myself to research different majors and career paths to decide earlier what is right for me. I made that decision years before college and changed my mind after my first year. The second year, I struggled with the new path I had chosen, finding out it was totally wrong for me and also cost me my scholarship. This brings me to now, in my third year of school but my first year in my major stressing out about losing what I worked for, having to pay tuition now and trying to graduate on time so I will not have to pay even more. Also I would tell myself to get more involved on campus to make more friends, which is hard to do when not living on campus but 35 minutes away. I would warn myself to study hard, that things may not come as easily as they did in high school. I would also tell myself to not procrastinate and take my time to make sure I do my best instead of getting overly stressed out.

Sean

I would tell myself to embrace the blank slate that I will be given at the beginning of college, and use it to be the best that I can be. I was so concerned about making new friends that often times I shirked my academic responsibilities. Sometimes I get distraught about my current GPA, but I know that at Marshall the professors are willing and able to help you raise it, and I have a large group of supportive friends that can help me study and do well.

Christopher

First thing I'd tell myself is to take it a bit more seriously than when how I did my freshman year. Its more challenging than what high school ever was and you can't just sit there and expect to pass with good grades. My grades my first year weren't as good as I would have hoped and now I have to make up for it the next three years during my degree. However, by going off of a good start, you can start ahead without having to dread about bad grades.

Kristi

The advise that I would give myself is to go to college. I would research all of the different colleges I was interested in and figure out which one was te best for me. I would have told myslef to never give up, and that everyone should have the chance to experience college life. Also everyone should be given the opportunity to continue their education after high school.

Jessica

If I could go back and talk to myself in my senior year of high school I would tell myself to learn how to study better. I would tell myself that the days of just looking over material a few times is over, and that I would need to learn what way best fits me to be able to retain what I am reading and learning about. I would also tell myself that I need to get over my shyness and that if I do it would make it much eaiser for me to talk to students in class with me that are from a different place other than where I grew up, and it would be eaiser for me to meet new people and make new friends eaiser.

James

Don't go to Marshall. Stay at WVU and keep playing music.

Wade

First , I would make myself take the ACT test again to possibly get a higher score for scholarships I missed by 1 or 2 points. Then I would enforce how procrastination is not a very wise thing to use. Also, I would make sure to get all I could out of my science and math classes instead of just focusing on "getting through". Next, I would tell myself how to deal with the work load by repitition, especially in Math. To make sure you don't get behind on assignments, and to make plans for what you need to get done each day. Put time into each subject no matter how difficult the class or work is. Do not count on "one"night studying to be sufficient in getting you the grade desire, because that is not a very wise strategy. Finally, I would work on diligence, because this word is key to your work ethic. The more you surround yourself with your work/concepts/job, the more naturally things will come. So, basically work hard and stay focused on the goal that is set before me, which is to obtain a degree with the least amount of setbacks possible.

Candace

Having the knowledge that I do now about college, I would give myself advice about numerous things. First , I would tell myself to have more confidence in whatever I do. I would also tell myself that if I want to succeed than I need to have great communication skills, social skills, and be able to stay determined, dedicated, and motivated no matter what happens. Another piece of advice I'd give would be to stay true to myself and not let what others think affect me. Finally, I would let myself know that it is okay to make mistakes because it is how you learn from them and become a stronger person.

Jessica

If I could go back to my 18 year old self, in my senior year of high school, I would tell myself that I need to develop better study habits. I would let myself know that the days of being able to study the night before a test and do well on it are coming to an end. I would let myself know that the transition to college is more difficult than i expect it to be and to take the advice of the others around me who have already been through the college experience and actually know what they are talking about.

Bridget

I would tell myself that it is not all about fun. You definitly have to work hard first and reward your self with fun. I would remind myself that every grade counts and you might think that these are just classes and i can do better next time. Every grade counts from freshman year all the way up till you graduate. They all determine your GPA. I would also tell myself not to choose the school based upon your friends. Pick what school you feel that you will strive at.

Pam

To really find out about class size, living arrangements, food service, and the area around the school. Those are the things that really set the feel of the school, and will help a student be in the right setting for success.

Hannah

Marshall University was never my first choice. I had planned to attend College of Notre Dame of Maryland. I went there for orietation and felt so out of place. I hated it. I came back home and rushed in my application to Marshall without even knowing much about the school. It was out of shear luck that I got such a great experience. My advice to others is to shop around. Apply to numerous schools even if you aren't sure if you will like them or not. Students should also not make any final decisions until they have taken a tour of campus and got to know the place a little better to make sure its what they want. The way I have made the most of my experience is being open to new people and new experiences. You have to get out there! Go to events and social activities. College wouldn't be half as great if I hadn't made so many great friends here!

Kendrick

Live in the dorms for at least the first year: consider it an investment in life experiences (invaluable). Go to class - it is tempting to skip, skipping is worse than any drug, especially the first year. Do not be shy. Call your mom; she might even send you money or cookies. Don't let academia box you in; postpone your career choice until you have tasted what life is like on your own.

Kelley

Find a school that is right for you. Every school has its own unique characteristics, and ultimately your decision will come down to personal preference. Don't be afraid to ask for help and get involved. Your college experience is a result of your own efforts. The harder you work academically and the more involved you become with your school and community, the more you will enjoy your time there. College is about both individualism and community. Don't be afraid to let others see you for who you really are and what you have to offer. You do not have to blend in to fit in and become a valuable, contributing part of your school.

Kendrick

Tour, Tour, Tour. The most important facet of a college is how it feels in relation to a student. A student can generally see through the campaigning and tell with genuine scope whether the college feels right for the student rather than the statistics that will undoubtedly be thrown in the direction of the prospect. It really comes down to the intangibles as to the true fit, instructor-student ratio means nothing when you dislike the teachers.

Yezenia

Picking the right college is not always easy but in my situation it was all about expense and education. I chose my college by the location, expense, and education. The Univeristy I attend is affordable and it has one of the best Nursing programs in the state and it's close enough that I can commute to and from campus also allowing me to save on housing. Other advice I give to future students before entering into college is first and foremost to have good study habits. It's all about being able to know what to study and how to study which many high school students sadly don't know how to do. It's also not about cramming for a test the night before, believe me I know! As a Nursing student I have learned to be the most successful in reviewing material every night and studying at least a week in advance before a test so that the material actually sticks. I have come to form close friendships through study groups which also is ideal, we're able to push and motivate eachother when exams and finals are just around the corner it helps make college better!

Amanda

My advice to both parents and children would be to not fear the unknown. I stayed at my local university and, while I've made some great friends and studied under some tremendous professors that have permanently shaped my studies, part of me regrets not challenging myself by venturing out into the world. I was scared to do so, and my parents were scared to let me go. Parents and children alike need to realize that college is just the first of many steps to maturity. Additionally, I would encourage students to get out and see what their school has to offer by way of extracurricular activities and academic/interest groups. Some of my fondest memories are of afterschool meetings with a small group of like-minded classmates at a nearby pizza or coffee shop, where we did nothing but let off steam about various school-related issues or discussed our latest projects with one another for advice and critiques. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and meet new people, because it's possible they may end up being some of your best friends.

Lindsay

I would suggest that students choose a school that will provide them with the best academic and social atmosphere for their intended major. I feel that students should choose a school in an area that they think they would enjoy. Students should not be afraid of traveling to an area that seems interesting to them After finding the right school, students should always put their studies first. Interaction with professors and other students is a must! I would suggest getting involved in as many activities as possible. One of the most important lessons that students should learn while in college is how to communicate well with others. Overall, I feel that students should make the most of their time while in college and always strive for their dreams.

Chris

I would tell the parents to let the students choose the college of their choice because college is where one embarks on a new part of life. It is very different from high school and I think a college student gets in touch more with his or herself. College students find out more about what they like and want in life while they are attending college. So again, I advise the parents to let the students go on their adventure themselves and be there for support. For the students, choose a college that interests you the most. Choose one where your degree is offered and one where you can take part of activities that take place on campus and even off campus. Definitely, be sure to have a social life along with a working life if you have a job and make sure that your job and classes work around each other successfully. Don't be affraid to try new activities and have fun along with meeting new people!

Nicholas

The best advice that I can give is to try to make your child understand that a college in a city can be a dangerous thing. I spent alot of money to go to NYU my first three years of college and got subpar grades and nothing to show for it. Now I am making 4.0's and going to a much less expensive college in a more rural area. I had my mind made up that I wanted to go to New York and there was nothing that could talk me out of it. The location that a school is in can play an important role in the choices that the student will make. Cities have huge distractions and if your child is prone to such things, a more rural or suburban college may be the better choice. Most important thing to remember is that college is a place to learn, not play. Thankfully, I have learned that lesson now.

Carmen

I think that it is important to research all of your possibilities. Once the choice has been made, students and parents should find housing, be it on or off-campus. I would recommend going to the school town a couple weeks before school is actually in session to get familiar with the town. Find the local hospital, grocery store, mall, etc. Families of other freshman will also be in town. Students will have a chance to meet other students and possibly find a in-town buddy. This is vital in any case of emergency so the new student can be looked after, even if their parents are away.

Lauren

GO out there, have fun but still take your studies into consideration, you are getting an education not a mrs degree!

sa

I would advise students to live on campus and go to college right out of high school not wait till they are older. Become a part of the college life and join clubs that they are interested in. Make the most of the academics that are available and don't party your college years away.

Kendra

I attended several open houses at different colleges. This was the best way for me to see where I fit in. When I came to the open house at Marshall University, I immediately felt like I was home. I believe the best college for you will feel right as soon as you step foot on the sidewalk. As for making the most out of my college experience, I work hard towards my major, but I also allow time for fun. I go to plays, football games, parties, and group organizations. College is for learning, but not just learning a trade. It's about learning how to live your own life; try new things. Whether it be attending your first lacrosse game or changing your major a couple times, new things always bring good. You might not like the new, but you will appreciate the old even more. Choosing a college is a big decision, but when it's right, it's right.

Miranda

The best thing to do when choosing a college is to visit. I had several options available to me, but once I visited Marshall, it was clearly the best fit. I chose to attend Marshall my Junior year of highschool after much deliberation. My entire family, grandparents and all, went on a total of three orientations. It was so nice to have several opinoins (where each person remembered different aspects). I believe that choosing the right school is the key to having a positive college experience.

Jonina

The best advice I could give would be to follow your heart to where you think you would be able to fulfill the dreams of your future. Some colleges have different requirements for the same degree so make sure that you check into the programs that you're interested in and see what the requirements are. If you want to live in the dorms, don't hesitate. That's where most friends are made. Don't choose a school because that's where your friends are going because most of the time you don't see them unless you're on a break from class anyway. Also, don't be afraid to speak up and make friends because they will be there for you no matter what.

Molly

I believe that a person has to do what is right for them. Some people may be looking for a school with a really active student government and others may be more focused on sports. Whatever it may be make sure you ask questions. They may seem stupid at the time but once you have decided on a school its semi-permanent. My college and my professors are like my family when I am away from home. They deeply care about my well-being and always try to help me in whatever venture I want to tackle. I also think that being an involved student while in college will help an individual to make the most of their college experience. A person is able to meet so many people when involved in extra-curriculars. It just adds character to that person and makes t hem more of a well rounded individual as they enter the real world upon graduating.

Lance

Don't just take the first acceptance letter, fish around and see what university best fits you.

phillip

when choosing a school dont neccesarily go for the one with the most prestige. unless you plan on pursuing a very involved and difficult major there are plenty of smaller schools that may be able to provide a more enjoyable and stress free experience. there will always be stress on students to perform but at some schools it may be easier to deal with this stress. it is also important to choose an area that you feel comfortable in. one should not attend a school in the rocky mountains if they hate the cold weather just because there is a prestigious school in the area. on the other hand a bigger more recognized school may be for you it comes down to choosing a scenario in which you see yourself being comfortable and able to perform. once you choose a school you must remember why you did and make the most of your experience. college is good at providing many distractions that can deter you from school work. it is important to speak with your professors regularly and take advantage of every opportunity that the university may provide.

Amanda

I know it sounds so corny but find a place where your heart is. When signing up for schools and visiting them go where your heart wants to be. College should be an amazing experience and when a student attends a school that doesn't satisfy who they are what kind of experience that person would get out of college? Parents, let your child make the decision...this is the place they will be spending 4 or more years of their life. Your child knows you care but they need to happy where they want to be, not where you have forced them to be. Set back at times and let them play a roll in the decision making process. You might be surprised what they can figure out.

Rebecca

The best advice I can give to a future student and their parents is to spend one day in the life of a student that is doing the same thing you want to do. Ask the department chair or recruiter if you can shadow a freshmen or sophomore student. This is will give you a much better idea of what to expect if you choose to attend that school. Also, ask the department chair if you can talk to some upperclassmen. They have been there awhile and will be honest with you. Make sure you check out the dorms you're most likely to stay in, the cafeteria, and most importantly, the library. That is where you will spend most of your time.

Shelley

Go to a college that has the degree you are intersted in. One should not settle for the convient school, go out and find the best education you think is avaible.

Caitlin

Choose the college that will best suit your needs. Don't take on more then you can handle. Allow time for college experiences. Go to on campus performances and art shows. If your undecided it's ok. There are plenty of people still trying to find out what they want to do. Take general ed. classes and perhaps something might interst you. Good Luck!!

Conrad

I would probably say that the best way to choose is to try to talk to people who have attended the college. You deffinitely need to go to orientations and things such as that because they are important in showing different programs and other things provided by the college. But these orientations are always very biased and are designed to lure people in. The best way is to talk to the ones who have actually been there because they will tell you about the things that you don't see on the glorified profector shows they'll show you at orientations. Also check the surrounding area of the school. This is important because that is where you will be living the next four years. And always make sure the college provides the program you need to do what you want in life. If you go through all these things and choose a college that is acceptable, I'd say you will have made the correct choice for you.

Jeannette

Make sure that your child or children actually want to go to school and that once they get here they will actually go to school and not waste your money. I know so many people who have came to college and dropped out of the first semester because they didn't go to class. You have to go to class or your done for. Trust me! Also, there is a lot of work involved in most classes make sure they are ready to buckle down and study and that they know they will get help when needed.

Joshua

Find out what schools are actually the best and have the most-published faculty. Meet several times with various faculty to determine what programs specifically at certain schools match your goals for theory vs. pratical-based programs and find a good, prestigious balance.

anne

Marshall University is a great college for anyone who desires to become the best they can be. You will need to be goal oriented and study hard to achieve your goals. Apply to as much financial aid as possible; college can become expensive. Choose a college that can meet both your financial aid needs and your desired major. I would also suggest going to a college close to home; you will need all the help you can get from family and friends. You should communicate often with your professors in order to develop into the young scholar they hope for you to become.

Zack

Listen to your kid - they know what they want the most. Follow your heart - it will lead you to a great school where you will be comfortable enough to succeed.

Kevin

The best advice I can give to any student wishing to make the most out of their college experience is to make sure to go out and have a good time. Do the things that you enjoy, yet always make sure that academics come first. Homework and studying should all be the number one priority but a student should always have enough time to hang out with friends or go out and have a good time. Be active and just be yourself and you will find plenty friends. The right college may be hard to find but make sure to do plenty of research. Make sure the school has a major that interests you and make sure to visit the school both officially and unofficially. Tours of the campus are great but nothing will let you know what the school is really like until you go to campus on a school day and just walk around. Talk to some of the teachers you may have and make sure the school fits you right and you don't feel awkward and out of place. With these steps, a student should be able to find a good home in college.

Ashley

The advice I would give to students would be to pick a place where you feel comfortable, but also somewhere you can feel a challenge to make yourself better. Take time to talk to your professors during office hours. This comes in handy when you don't understand something or need help. If they know you a little better, they know you're serious about getting your work done right and not looking for an easy way out of a hard assignment. This seems silly, but attend all classes. It's very hard to catch up if you fall behind. The last piece of advice I have is get involved, with greek life, student government, sports, or clubs. The more involved you are, the more campus starts to feel like home. The advice I would give to parents is to support their children. College is hard enough without worrying about impressing your parents. There is an enormous amount of stress with classes, so try to be supportive and not too judgemental. Parents should also get involved and know what their child is doing at school, and plan at least one visit to check out campus.

Megan

The overarching task during the four years (or more) of college is being able to adjust to your new surroundings and tasks as a student, whether they be academic, career-oriented, financial, or otherwise. Choosing a school whose setting and student population are suitable for your tastes certainly helps, but these are merely two of many variables that will determine the outcome of your college career. Likewise, choosing a school which has programs in your prospective field of study is unquestionably important, but bear in mind how common it is for a student to change his/her major. Remember that college is what you make of it. If you go to college with absolutely no career goals, then you will obtain very little from going to college. However, if you chose a school with an even a general idea of what you want to obtain from your education, then you are more likely to adapt when changes present themselves and therefore complete college. Do not be preoccupied with minute details of different colleges, but instead use your general career or education goal(s) to determine what college will be best suited to help you obtain those ambitions.

Emily

First and foremost future students and their parents need to visit the schools they're interested in going to. They also need to look at what is offered at the school in question. See if the school offers not only what you think you want to major in but also if it offers your back up majors. You also need to ask current students and see how they feel about they school. See if they like it there, see what the social activities are, that kind of thing. See if the school matches what you want out of your college experience. You should also pay attention to the school's ability to help you pay for school. This last thing is also very important, keep your options open. Make sure you apply to several schools and pick from the ones that accept you. Don't base your choice on where your friends are going either, because you make so many new friends at college that you won't be lonely. Go to school, have fun, study, and remember college is the best time in your life.

Sara

Really do your research and talk to older students in your chosen major.

Jennifer

To find the right college I think students and parents need to visit several colleges and see what each on has to offer and what the community is like around the college. Maybe even stay in the community for a day or two. Get on facebook and seek out people who attend that college, ask them about it, their opinion, about their experience, and whether or not they would chose to go there again. To make the most of your college experience I truely believe that you have to get involved. My first semester of college I commuted from home and all I did was attend class, and drive home to study. I didn't enjoy college at all, so I made change. I joined a sorority as well as a few organizations on campus. Now I absolutely love college and feel so involved. I actually feel as though I am apart of my school. It makes you so much more proud to be a student there if you actually know what is going on on campus. Good luck with your college experience.

Matthew

just go somewhere that is right for you and only you, dont take other peoples advice for what "you" need. do what you want. you know what you like and or need more than anyone else.

Chelsea

I think you have to go and tour the colleges that you are interested in. It has to be the right fit for you. If you are going to be away from home for the first time for months at a time, the place have to make you feel at home and warm and comfortable. My Mom and I toured 5 different campuses. One that we drove to, we didn't even get out of the car. As soon as I drove up, it just didn't feel right. I think this is an important step. If you already feel homesick as soon as you get there....you may not end up staying. I fell like Marshall remeinded me of my home town. Trees lining the sidewalks. Grassy parks. Old buildings. It just made me feel at home!

Michelle

My advice for parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience include the following: First pray. Ask God to help you with every step you take. Second plan. Start taking ACT/SAT prep classes, starting in the 11th grade, to prepare for the ACT/SAT test. Taking the ACT or SAT is crirtical in getting into college. The higher your ACT or SAT score, the better chance you'll have at getting into a good college. Third make sure you have financial aid. Either work, save money, or fill out scholarshaips starting in the 10th grade. Once you have done the above steps figure out what you want to study by brainstorming or writing down what interest you then research by looking up colleges with those programs. Next apply for schools that are within you financial barriers. Going to school out of state is not always the best thing to do. Once in college make the most of it by being social and getting envolved in organizations both student and academic. Always ask questions, that is the best way of being informed. Last but not least, step outside your box.