Marymount Manhattan College Top Questions

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

Nicole

“Get a hold of yourself, woman!” is what I would tell my senior self. I remember being so stressed out thinking no college or university would want me, which of course, was not the case! At the time, I felt like I was drowning in a sea of emotions, applications, and emotional applications. It seemed like climbing Mount Everest would have been easier than finishing the year—especially as a bad case of “Senioritis” began setting in, but what I would have told myself is to keep climbing, because what’s at the other side of that mountain is far better than you could have ever imagined: It is college—a life free of promposals, awkard school dances, (and in my case, terrible acne). So, kid, don’t sweat the small stuff because it will get easier from here on out, your acne WILL get better (although your jeans may get tighter—freshman fifteen, what can I say?), and who you do or don’t go to prom with won’t matter a year from now, so focus on getting good grades and stay calm because there really is nothing to worry about!

Adolfo

If I could go back and advise the young, inadequate me, I would warn against my veering from school in the upcoming years. I would smack me across the face until I wised up and listened to myself. I'd say hold off on that six month trip to Europe and get your life figured out first. More importantly, I'd cry and plead with myself to stop what I was doing to Ella. Screaming and shouting till my past ears bled, not to make the same stupid mistake I made with all the other girls before. I would reason that being accepted by MMC, earning a scholarship from the same school, being the middle child and first in college was all going to be great, but none of it would be truly worth it without her. Not when I have no one to share it with. Girls have and will flock to me, and all I look for is Ella. I look for is that love we shared, the pride I felt when she met my little sisters. How without her, there's only fear and doubt. Only night terrors and no one beside me, saying I can cry.

nicole

If I knew in high school what I know now, I would tell myself a lot of things. Firstly, I would say that it would be smart to go to community college first, so you save money and not have to study a major you hate just because you want to be in New York City. I would also tell myself that I should care more about my grades because in the end, they really do matter, and to apply for every scholarship I could find. Probably the last thing I would say continues off of the community college part. Do not go to the school you chose just because you were accepted, it's in the city, and it's the only school you applied too. You will not look like a failure for attending community college while everyone else is going to four year universities. It will be a smart decision and you know it, but you're too proud to admit it. If you would know all this now, you would probably not hate the first two years of college as I have and you would not be as behind as I am now.

Francesca

It does get better. You’re going to make friends, have all sorts of new experiences, and meet all sorts of interesting people and do all sorts of interesting things. Most of all, you’re going to go to Greece, like you’ve been dreaming of since you were little. People in college will be nicer to you, and will take you seriously. There will be people who are interested in you as a person and want to see you thrive. But you’re going to have to make an effort. Nothing is going to be handed to you. Though it’s going to be hard sometimes, because you’re shy and still have some anxiety problems, you’re going to have to connect. Go to all the clubs. Say hi to everyone in the halls. Connect. Take advantage of every opportunity you see, even if you’re scared, even if you doubt yourself, even if you think you aren’t good enough or can’t succeed. Try everything. It’s better to try and fail then to never try at all. Let yourself live. Focus on yourself, your career and your happiness and you’ll do fine

Laurie

If I went back in time to give myself advice about college life, I would definitely sit myself down to talk. I would tell myself to get ready to focus and work hard. College is a time to be more independent so be sure to manage the time wisely. I would also remind myself that if you slack off or get off track it is myself who will pay figuratively and literally. College is a place to learn, meet new people and prepare for the future.

Hannah

I would tell myself that there is no set plan or consecutive steps that I should be following. I would remind myself that nothing is permanent and that I shouldn't be afraid or angry if my interests should change. I would encourage myself to explore all of my educational options and apply for more schools outside of my home state. I would emphasize the importance of researching not only the colleges to which I would apply, but the communities and cities encompassing the colleges as well. I would work to ease the pressure from myself and remind myself that it is my life, and that I am in control.

Bria

The advice I would give myself as a high school senior would be to focus on my success and my future. I would tell myself not to worry about what's going on around me or with other people. I would tell myself that I am going to college to improve my craft and learn new things in a new environment. I would mention that how you are not always people's best interest and how some people are thrown in your path to either throw you off or slow you down. Well, don't let them! I would also tell myself to stay mentally strong and push through any obstacle that comes my way because the best lessons are the toughest ones.

Tatum

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would simply say embrace challenges- the reward is often greater. This small bit of advice is critical, because challenges will be met in College. Courses may be challenging, balancing school activities may be challenging, living with roomates may be challenging too. However, successfully tackling these challenges will prepare you for future success. Consider this: your parent asks you to mow the lawn. It doesn't look like it needs mowing, but you do it anyway. When teh job is done, you inform your parents. Now what if taht same lawn needed mowing, and weeding, and raking. You struggle through, you are exhausted, but the lawn is landscaper perfect! Your arents are amazed with your accomplishment, and appreciate having you as a child. They decided to get you the iPad3 for your birthday. College is similar, if you do your best, in challenging courses, faculty will recognize your efforts. Rewards may come in the form of recommendation letters, references, job placement, friends for life, success in life. You have the power to obtain it all- by navigating through challenge.

Maria

I have learned more at MMC than I think I could have at any other college. There are two elements to MMC that make it a valuable learning experience: it is a small college, and it is in the middle of New York City. Since it is so small, classes are small as well and expectations are raised for each class as a whole. I began to realize the importance of attendance and people skills when I was thrown into the close-knit classrooms at MMC. A liberal arts college like this is Darwinistic in that only those who can adapt will survive. The diversity at MMC forces people with closed minds to open them. The big city is another lesson in itself. I learned that self-awareness, patience, and cooperation are necessary to survive. People in the city, no matter how many friends they have, must learn to be self-sufficient. I came to terms with the fact that I am just one person in the midst of roughly nine million people in this city. What makes me an individual are my values, hopes, and dreams, and those cannot be ignored.

Emily

Everyone always says, "College is the best time of your life!" and I always thought people were just exagerating, but since I have been in college, I completely agree. I am only a freshman and I am truly having the time of my life. I came to college with no inhibitions, and I was ready to just be myself and see where my new life would take me. Since being in college I have come to better understand myself and how motivated I can be when I set a goal for myself. I have also made the best of friends and true connections that will last a lifetime. It is crucial to attend college because it is your first step into the world as an indepent well educated human being. In college the learning and discoveries never stop, and because I have already learned so much in such short span of time, I will continue to live my life seeking new opportunites to learn and discover.

Elise

Learning how to live away from home as well as developing good study skills and habits

Michelle

Racially and economically I am underreppresented at my school however it is important for me to remain apart of the school. I've styed in this community with hopes for it to grow and become truly diverse. Being at a liberal arts college has also opened my eyes to other disciplines and led me to my social work path. I was introduced to social work because of the minor program at my school and i'm working towards that career.

Whittney

I'm learning a new language, how to manage a business, im learning how to understand philosphy by reading and discussing Aristotle, Stace, Kant and others.

Ryann

I am an African American woman who originally comes from a small town in southwest MN. I went to a small private high school where there were 13 kids in my graduating class. It wasn?t until I went to R.C.T.C in Rochester MN that I took a step out of my small and mostly safe little box and really experienced life and diversity. I met people from every walk of life in my Human Services Specialist program and through these people we formed friendships & study groups that greatly helped me in Biology, Psychology, English classes and many other classes. With the support and encouragement of my new found friends I made the Deans list and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. Through the array of different people I was able to experience life with a different perspective The thing I valued the most at RCTC was I had the opportunity to expand my education. I firmly believe ?Knowledge is power.? I am transferring to UWL in Wisconsin where I will be able to obtain my Bachelors Degree to become a Mental Health Counselor for children and then be able to start giving back to my community.

Trinh

I have gotten out of my college experience is that I have more freedom than when I was in high school. I could choose my professors and classes, and also able to attend many events that college prepared. I have many fun experiences, made many friends, and on my way to complete my bachalor degree so it has been valuable to attend.

John

I have not yet started school, but I will be in August of 2010. I'm very excited about the opportunity I have to further my education and reach my goals. I'm hoping to win this so it will be easier for me to pay my way.

Amber

have not started classes yet.

Bettina

I would tell myself to go to a public college, so I wouldn't have $50,000 in loans when I graduate. To stay out a little later and not worry about getting so much sleep. To take the time to nuture friendships, because it's so hard to stay in touch when you graduate. To enjoy taking a nap in the middle of the day, because those just don't happen anymore. To stay close to family, because they are really the only people who matter. To be an individual, even if everyone doesn't "get" you. To always live life to it's fullest because life comes at you fast, and you never know what tomorrow holds.

Evan

I would take myself by the shoulders, stare into my eyes, and stress to not underestimate my abilities. I would say, "Evan, aim higher than you think you'll achieve, because you just might be surprised at how far you'll go." I'd urge myself to apply to a few more reach schools, and broaden my interests of study so that I'd have more opportunities in areas of study should I wish to veer from the path of an Acting major. Also, I might add that it is important to visit potential schools and sit in on classes. Without that personal, first-hand experience of the campus environment, I really had a hard time transitioning and making my way in my first year attending Marymount Manhattan. Struggling with depression during my freshman year, I focused too much on what I couldn't do, how difficult living in New York City was, and how far away from my family I became. The most pertinent piece of advice I'd share is to keep your goals in plain sight. It is when you lose sight of those hopes that distractions and negativity will bog down your success and happiness.

Chelsea

First day of senior year, better yet, the last first day of high school! There is tall, strawberry blond wearing sweat pants and headed to PE I pursue. Daily she chooses to put it off. I know just what her mind is thinking as I grab her wrist and look this mirror reflection straight in the eye because she is me at seventeen. It is Back to the Future without the sweet car and 80's clothing and I have an important message for my former self. No time to waist, I must save myself from senior year being the worst year of my life. "Take the AP classes that you can without being overwhelmed, grades are going to help, start this very day by asking what you want: Location? Major? Size?? No wrong answers, but knowing yourself will make your college experience phenominal. Scholarships are vital! Do one a week now. Most of all DON?T FEAR. Fear of pursuing your passion produces regret. So apply to several universities including your dream one. Nothing is worse than having not gone for it." And then I am gone, back to my own time, happy I diligently went for my future.

Sarah

Sarah, don't be afraid and don't let money keep you from having a complete and full college experience: DORM! Email ALL of your professors for the upcoming semester and find out what textbooks and other course materials you will need for each class. Buy all of these things a week (or two, just to be on the safest side) BEFORE classes begin. Hang out with all of your friends during the summer because you WON'T see them in the fall as much as you think. At Orientation, talk to the girl with the glasses and pink hair who will sit next to you. Don't be silent. She will turn out to be a close friend. SPEAK UP--you can't make friends if you don't. You HAVE to participate in all of your classes--professors factor in participation into your final grade (it's usually like 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}). Doing extra credit WON'T always be an option. Open yourself up and reveal who you are; you'll realize that kids will open up to you in return and it won't be as hard as you think. Explore the city! This is your home now!!! Go!

Shantaya

Although I have transformed and matured in many ways since graduating high school almost two years ago, the best advice I could give myself was much easier and natural to follow as a high school senior then as a college student. From a young age, I acustmed myself with the ?Carpe Diem? mantra. I was convinced that by keeping a optimistic outlook and taking life one day at a time ,happiness and success would one day fine me. While I now know the importance of planning for the future , I have yet to find that healthy balance. As a busy college student , I find myself second guessing nearly every decision , both those important and trivial , in fear of one mistake ruining everything. If I could travel back in time , I would tell myself to work on finding a happy medium that includes accomplishing goals and enjoying the present while also creating a stress-free way of preparing for life after school.

Natasha

If i were to go back in time and be a high school senior. I would have told myself to volunteer at a hospital. Focuse on my studies and sports and not my social life. Also to study for the classes i will be taking before hand during the summer before college. Save money. Read more vocabulary books to gain more knowledge in words.

Taylor

Don't worry too much about a school being the 'perfect' school, because in the end it's nearly impossible for one school to be exactly what you want it to be. Allow yourself some room to grow and adapt to your new surroundings because even when you think you've made the wrong decision, your school can surprise you in ways you never imagined, and you can end up loving the school for reasons you'd never anticipated.

Brian

First off, I would urge students and parents to visit the campus of the schools you are interested in. Every school has its own personality and vibe which can't be understood by merely looking at pictures or reading quotes in the paphlets the schools mail you. Get an idea of the campus and the surrounding area because you want to utilize both to springboard you into the next phase of your life. You need a school that will fulfill and challenge you academically, socially and personally. Don't invest too much in just one or your transition from college life to the real world might not be as smooth as you had hoped. Remember, you chose this school for a specific reason to help you when you graduate so remember to keep active outside the classroom and it is never too early to start enhancing your education by getting "real life" work experience in the area around the school. So check out businesses, museums, theatre and other things that interest you in the surrounding area. Make the most of the connections your school offers. Do your research and really grasp what college has to offer you.

Regina

Finding the right college

Danielle

Today college is so important. You need to attend a college that fits your needs and has a good academic program. Today we are giving so many opportunties because of all the education that is offered. Get the most out of it!!!!!

Shane

One should try to find a college that will give students the time and resources they need in order to feel successful. It's best to choose a school that has the right ammount of focus on academics and enrichment. If high pressure is not right, choose a school where enrichment is a focus, rather than comeptition and ultimate achievement.

Shelly

It has to be a place you're comfortable living and playing at. Consider the people you would meet there and how it'll help you gorw in you career and not how it'll get you a job.

Andres

For one of the largest financial investments in your life, I often find that people make a quick and rushed college decision. Take it slowly, understand that even if you transfer you may be there for up to 2 yrs. There's no reason to rush to a decision. Make sure to meet with professors, in both the search and once in college. Building a personal relationship with a professor is paramount to success.

Bingo

I wouldn't

michelle

The school offers great summer and winter semeter classes so that students can either get ahead with credits of catch up if needed. Also the great benefit out the mini-semester classes is that you only have to focus one one class rather than 5, so it is a chance to increase your GPA or lighten your other courseloads for spring and fall semesters.

Alexandra

Look at all aspects of a college inclusive of the location and how that will impact their experience because it will impact their performance as a student along with the opportunities they will have.

Rayanne

Visit the schools first, pick a program that is right for you.

liz

I would not recoment this school first off, next I would say that you should try and get as much as a real college experance as you can, dorms, campus, sports or activities other then classes to do. Make sure its a good school and a well rounded one, Marymount is not.

Kathryn

There is a lot of expectation in the U.S to get into the "right" school immediately after high school. Every year the competition gets greater, the tuition gets hirer and the stress level extreme. Essentially, not everyone is ready to go to college after their senior year and I have found those students who are pressured into going to school are often the most unsuccessful because they have not found their individuality or their own voice. The name of your school won't make a student achieve greater things. I advise to meticulously investigate many schools. Parents, listen to your kids even if you don't agree with their choices,. Students be honest with yourself and your parents. If you are not ready to go to college, or are uncomfortable with the places your parents want you to go, that voice needs to be heard. You've been waiting a long time to be treated like an adult so now you are being asked to act like one, which involves honesty, realism and logic. The US has some of the greatest instutitions of learning but they are only useful when you are ready and know how to utilize them.

Jay

Do not choose your major right away unless you are absolutely positive what you'd like to study; otherwise you'll probably change your major and have to start rebuilding your transcript from scratch. Take as many of the general requirements as you can early on, so that later in your college career you will have time-slots and credits to play around with, incase you want to develop a minor or something like that. Do not just take whatever advisor your school selects for you, always find a faculty advisor whose interest reflects your own, and who might also be interested in developing an independent study course with you. A strong relationship with your faculty advisor is really the best shot you have at getting something meaningful out of school; they will help you secure your footing in whatever field you intend to embark in. Know that most friendships tend to be transient, so bare this in mind when dividing your social time and your school work: you will always have another chance to have a fun night out with friends, but your GPA isn't easy to change, and you only get one shot at your exams/essays.

Matthew

Parents: Allow your child to discover what they want to do, this is the time to let your child grow and become a working member of society, more importantly, your child is going to go through a time period of experimentation. During this time they will be exploring values, belief systems, knowledge, and life itself, be there to share in their joy as they discover who they are. Students: This is your time, go out into the world. It is your decision about which college to go to, no one else's, it's your education. Now is the time in which you will start to figure yourself out in ways you didn't know before. Do NOT be afraid of the changes and paths ahead, as they will define who you are as an individual, and as a member of society. You have been blessed with a gift, they gift of pursuing knowledge, go and use it.

Catherine

For the student, I feel it is important to focus on being both selfish and realistic. You must clearly identify what it is that you are seeking not only in your education or career, but in your life at this point in time. This affects location, degree, timing, and a plethora of other variables that only you as a student and individual can decide for yourself. Also, you must be able to rationally view the cost of the school and the toll that will take on you and your family. Also, keeping a realistic understanding of your own independence. Some students are capable of paying their own rent, doing their own laundry, and cooking their own dinners until they come home for the holidays. Others are not. This is something important to dwell upon when considering the location, campus life, and class size of the college, among other defining qualities. I think parents should ensure that the students are keeping these two aspects keenly in sight while remaining supportive and honest themselves with these two aspects. It is easy to get caught up in ideals and wants, but they often hide the wise insight into the future we all have.

Robert

Make sure you talk to EVERYONE involved with the major you intend on. Get to know everyone and ask every question, regardless of how dumb it may seem: you'll be glad you asked later on. You want to make sure you really can picture yourself at the college and that the school really offers what you want out of a college. Don't settle for anything less than what you want, even small stuff because usually, the small stuff ends up not being small.

Nicole

Do TONS of research not only with the College Board but with current students.

Melissa

Make sure your child has some idea of what they want in an enviornment and career before choosing. Too many people I know had no declared major and wasted time and money jumping from major to major. Also make sure they have opportunities to get real life experience at jobs relating to their fields before they have finished their degree.

Kayla

Know what you want in a college, sit in on classes and ask the students about the professors. Pick a school that has your major or a varity of majors tha you are interested. Never take an 8 am class. Have fun, but don't annoy your roommate. Always keep your syllabus if you plan on tranfering schools. and always ask questions.

Brendan

Trust your kid.

Raquel

Finding the right college is an important and personal decision that may become a little stressful if you do not ask the right people for help. Although this is your final decision, having a good support system through your parents and school concilors will make this experience more enjoyable and efficient. Here is my advice for finding the right college and making the most out of the college experience. First, identify your priorities as a student. Some prorities to consider would be location, academic programs, cost, and diversity. Second, begin researching and visiting a wide variety of institutions to see what campus style fits the student best. Finally, match the goals and priorities of the student with the different institutional characteristics to further narrow down your search. My last bit of advice would be to keep in mind that no matter what University you choose, college can and will get tough. Choose an institution where you feel the faculty and staff are most qualified to help assist in your many transitions through out your college experience.

Joshua

I say wait. Prior to coming to Marymount Manhattan College, which I am more than happy with, I attended a community college. Tidewater Community College, VA was a lot of things for me at 18, but most of all it was a place where I could figure out my wants in an educational environment. After residing there for a little less than 2 years I was on a well educated search to find the college or univesity that best contrbiuted to me needs. I believe the best way to make the most of your college experience is to enjoy it. Enjoy where you go to school and enjoy your major. One has to spend 4 years there, why not be happy with your extended time rather than live in self doubt on what could have been? I ended up at MMC and am in my Junior year persueing my degree in Theatre studies, which was a long way from my want of an associates degree in a small town in Virginia Beach, VA. I say follow your dreams.

Jared

Find a place that has the program for you that's in the type of area you want to be in. If you dream of being in the city, get more familiar with being there. It can be really daunting how big it can be. If you want to go to more of a campus school, find out what the area has to offer (other than getting wasted). Boredom and lonliness can be your worst enemy when you go off to college. Get involved, even if it means not coming home one weekend to see your boyfriend/girlfriend. It's the only way you'll meet people with similar interests. You are only going to have so much in common with your freshman roommate(s). Ttry to get everything you can out of your school. That doesn't have to mean study all the time, or become a book worm. Just get involved in what your school has to offer, build up as many skills as you can. It will shape who you become for the better.

Lisa

Do not choose a school based solely on what other people say about it. Make sure you visit it and experience it yourself.

Matthew

I encourage parents to get as involved in picking a school as possible. I had no help from my parents, which is one of the reasons why I feel like I am so unhappy at the school I chose now.

Ashley

To students: Visit the school. No matter how much research you do about the school, you will never know if it's the right college unless you visit. Can you see yourself there? If you can't, don't pick it. But if you can see yourself walking down the halls with new friends, standing on line for lunch, sitting in the classrooms, or lounging in the library... it's usually the school for you. Also, try to sit in on a class. This is so important. To parents: Listen to your child. It's their new life they're choosing. Ultimately, you have the final say. But really consider what they tell you. Otherwise they could be unhappy for the next four years of their life and who wants that? A final note to students: There is no such thing as the "right" college. You may come close, but you will never love everything about your school. But if you find you hate your college, give it at least a semester before considering to transfer. You never know. Myabe you'll find something that'll convince you to stay. Best of luck.