Maryville College Top Questions

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

Rachel

The way you think your future is going to happen? Yeah, it doesn’t happen like that at all. It is one million times better than your wildest dreams. So don't worry too much about those lists you're obsessing over right now. Follow your gut, chase your dreams, have the courage to walk through doors when they open for you, and faith that everything will happen the way it is supposed to. Random things you need to know include- that black hair is not a good look. Pack warmer clothes when you go study abroad in Eastern Europe. Listen to Dad (so far, he's got a 10/10 track record for being right). Your first love is going to break your heart, but give it all you've got anyways. Stay away from the pizza buffet in the college cafeteria. More importantly, every single thing that happens to you happens for a reason. So just live, learn the lessons, work really hard and be kind… Amazing things are going to happen. Oh, and congratulations- you’ll find out in about a week that you made the collegiate varsity cheerleading squad.

gabrielle

Although I have learned a great deal my first few months as a college student I would not change my decision about coming to Maryville College. I had the thought of "if you do not see yourself on this campus then it is not for you" instilled in my head. I toured a total of 18 colleges with Maryville being my last. I knew the moment I stepped on this campus it was for me. I was influenced to come here for softball I was not really considering the quality of the education. Which I have now realized is a very important factor. If I could go back I would just advise myself to worry more about the quality of the education within the institution. I would also tell myself to not be so easily convience by the opinion of others, and where exactly they could see you attending. This is your future so you make the choices.

Kathleen

If I could go back a year and tell myself anything, it would be not to be scared to move on to bigger and better things. It's my life and I have to live it the best I can, I can't worry about what other people think about me or the choices I make. I would tell myself to go to the 4 year college I had the opportunity to go to and not to worry about leaving people behind.

Sarah

I often think of what advice I would give myself as a high school senior, if I could go back in time. I would start with the basics: "don't skip class, grades matter, boys don't." My high school self would just say, "yeah I know, I know." So I would get down to specifics, "Don't get caught up in the parties, it will come back hard when you don't get that scholarship because you got two D's and a C your second semester." I'd tell myself, "Don't be so afraid to go for the lead role in the play just because you're a freshman, the others are just as nervous- plus you get the role." Then I would tell myself the most important advice that I only recently found out as a College Junior, "Don't spent so much time trying to be like everyone else you see, being yourself as loud as you can is the most appealing thing you can ever do." If I would have had this advice as a high school senior, I would have saved myself a lot of mistakes, time, and tears throughout my college life.

Kelly

Being the oldest sibling and coming from a lower-middle class family, there was a lot of confusion during my senior year when applying for colleges. I had excellent grades and was very involved in extra-curricular activities, but making college affordable was something I still worried about. I did not completely understand the college admissions process. Miraculously, everything ended up working in my favor. I got a significant amount of scholarship and financial aid, been blessed with the opportunity to play college tennis (which I still participate in), all while attending an institution with a solid reputation. However, if I could go back in time, I would apply for more scholarships that I didn't think I could get, and do more research on colleges instead of just filling out the required applications. It is important to be knowledgeable of the college you plan on attending. When I first started at Maryville, I reluctantly knew very little information and felt overwhelmed most of my first semester. College is more than just a place you get your degree, it is the environment that will shape both the next four years of your life and your future lifestyle.

ashley

Take advantage of every opportunity available (travel, study, culture, socialization). If opportunities don't seem readily available, seek them out. They are there waiting!

Lucia

to research, research, research! also, find someone who wants to help you, not just helping you becuase they get paid to. I'm still bitter, and if I coud tell myself one thing it would be; get help from someone who cares about your furture, to ask a lot of questions, and never hold back. Things might have been different if I knew now what I should've asked then.

Morgan

I have learned to think and to trust my own opinion. I have also learned that the world is full of diverse people. My school is very focused on academics and we work hard to maintain high standards which means respect on all levels and open people.

Jonathan

Public speaking has been one of the greatest things I have gotten out of attending Maryville College. Prior to attending Maryville College I had no public speaking skills, and I could not speak in front of groups of people that I did not know, even speaking infront of groups of my friends was difficult for me. After just a year at Maryville College I was invited by the Vice-President of Admissions to go with her and deliver a three hour speech on "preparing for college" for a home school group based out of Knoxville, Tennessee. Another great experience I have gotten out of Maryville College is the friendships I have made. During orientation as a freshmen I went on a white water rafting trip down the middle and lower portions of the Ocoee River. Some of the friends I made on that overnight trip are the closest people to me I have in my life. Maryville College helps you build friendships that will last a student thier life time if they build on the foundations laid out for them.

Connie

If I had the opportunity to go back in time as a high school senior, I would advise myself to look more closely into all the available scholarships to help pay for college. With today's economy constantly fluctuating, you can never be too safe when it comes to having the opportunity to maintain being a college student. As far as making the transition from high school to college, I would advise myself to create a working study method for my classes, which are much more challenging in college. Time management is also a key feature to being a college student, and if had been aware of that, I would have started practicing that early into my senior year.

Kristin

I would tell myself to be prepared for the social life. Coming out of high school I was fully against drinking and told myself (and others) that I would never do it. However, in the second semester of my freshman year, I found myself drinking almost every weekend. I also told myself coming out of high school that I would never do anything sexually with a guy before I was married. I am still a virgin, but I have done some things that I always said I would never do. I never thought that the temptation to do those things would be so hard to turn down. If I could go back and give myself advice as a high school senior, I would definitely tell myself to be prepared for the alcohol and boys. I do not regret anything that I have done, but there are some things that I could have done differently if I had known that it was going to be like this.

Chase

Although the transition from high school to college is undoubtedly fun and exciting it isn?t always seamless, which I can certainly attest to. If I were given the opportunity to travel back in time and offer advice to my then transitioning self I would say many different things, but in particular I would tell myself to not forget about my parents. Things happen so fast and there are so many new people to meet that it?s easy to get swept up and forget about those back home. If I were staring my past self in the face, I would tell myself to remember that my parents are working as hard as they can to help put me through college while still paying the bills, and that I owe it to them to make their investment in my future worth it. I know with full certainty that I didn?t search for scholarships nearly as hard as I should have at this time in my life, but I would urge my former self to change all of that and to do as much as possible to repay my parents for all the sacrifices that they?ve made for me.

Terran

Terran, the future ahead of you is going to be a very bumpy one. You will have to make huge changes in the way do things; though you are a loner when it comes to doing your work, you'll have to adjust to the fact that asking for help is not a crime. The teachers are there to help you; all you have to do is ask. You will not have the luxeries that you are accustomed to in high school; "free time" is no longer a word in your vocabulary. Buckle down and study, a lot! Last, but not least, take good care of your body. Any illness, even a simple cold, can bring you (and your grades) to your knees. If your health is in jeopardy, your grades will greatly suffer as well. Terran, changes are inevitable; we have always known that. The only thing we did not know was how quickly they would come. The best advice that I can give is to work your hardest and make every day count, but don't over do it! If you can do that, then you will end up just fine.

Paris

Hey Paris, It's quite interesting that I can talk to myself in the past. Looking back at you, I realized that you are able to have all the fun in the world and still have a really high grade point average. Here at college, it is like moving somewhere with a completely different time zone. With you can learn something in a day, not have to study and still make over a ninety percent on the test. I want you to get some practice with study habits for the next step because this transition is truly rough to get use to. I also want you to start learning hoe to spend you time. You have a lot of free time now but once you start college, you have to stay on top of what is the number one priorty... Schoolwork. Well that is all I really have and I can not wait to see how you do! Paris

Angela

The advice I would give to myself would be to stay calm. Nothing is worth getting worked up over, whether it be a test or a big game. It is importatnt to keep your composure because when you do that your mind will stay clear and you can accomplish more. Also to learn how to study correctly. This is also important because even though you may not need to study in high school, you will need to in college and it is important to learn that skill. Stay organized. If you stay organized and keep things in order, you will be able to accomplish assignments and such on time. Also, if you stay organized and something comes up to where you will have to miss class, you will be prepared. Have fun. Don't let the stress of exams and grades weigh you down. It is important to remeber why your in college but it is also important to let lose sometimes and enjoy your college life. That being said stay responsible while you're having fun. Keep these words with you and you will be successful!

Brandon

I would tell myself to pay more attention in class and study more. I would also say tell myself to manage my time wisely and to not be lazy and get the work done.

Nicole

My first year of college was difficult and that's likely the case for many new students. I recommend finding a school that fits your personality. For example, if you attended a small high school, choose a small college so that you won't be overwhelmed. Also be sure to check out the social activities and clubs available to see if the school has things that interest you. Social life is a big part of the college experience, it should be filled with fun memories. Academically, many students aren't sure what they want to study. Don't be discouraged about this. The first year is a time to try new things and discover what excites you. My school had required freshman courses that seemed lame at first, but I later realized how helpful they were in determining my interests. First, we had a week-long orientation where we did "rope course" activities and leaderhip challenges. We also had classes to help adjust to college life and classes to build awareness of environmental and economic issues. I learned so much about myself and found many new interests. So, definitely check out the opportunities available to learn and try new things.

Darrell

I would tell students to do some research on their choices of colleges so that they will know what the campus life is like. Ask as many questions as possible and get as much information as they can! That way, they will know if they like the campus or not. I would also suggest that the student be extremely open to new surroundings and people that they encounter, because it will definately be a new world once they get in college. If they follow these simple steps, their college experience will be a SUCCESS! Sincerely, Darrell Tate

Leah

Let the student pick the school. If the student isn't challenged enough, they will drop out; if the student hates the college, they will drop out; and if the student is too challenged, they will drop out. When you find the right college, you will know. Also, don't go to college right out of high school if you are not ready... Americorps is a great option for a year off of safe travelling, and scholarships ARE available for non-traditional students.

Ian

College is a learning and growing experience. Visit as many potential schools as possible and figure out what you like and dislike about each. It is as much about what the school has to offer you as what you can give back to the school and how you feel about it. Be sure to ask about the alumni network and career center as these are extremely important throughout your college career. If you are interested in studying abroad check out the college or universities study abroad program, these are not all made the same. While it may seem like an easy thing to transfer if you don't like your first choice try and find the right fit the first time as this will no only help your overall experience but also be a major help when it comes to networking and keeping in touch with friends. College is a place to live, grow a little and enjoy every minute of it, just be sure to take time and remember that these are some of the most exciting four years of your life.

Katie

Visit as many colleges and universities that are realisitcally within your budget and your child feels the need to see.

Katelyn

For students, it can be so difficult to know which college is the best for you until you actually attend that college. The most important steps you can take to finding the closest fit for you are (1) visiting colleges and (2) doing your research. On these college visits, tour the campus, meet some professors, and ask many questions, especially to current students. When researching schools, look for those whose values match yours, whose academic programs are strong in areas and fields that you are pursuing, and whose extracurricular activities are embedded in your hobbies and interests. For parents, it is imperative to remember that your child is not you. S/he may not like the same type of schools you would have liked. However, the most important aid you can offer in the midst of the college decision making process would be taking your child on as many college visits as possible and continually asking questions to administration, faculty, and staff at these institutions. More important, let these visits be a time your son/daughter can try out everything: large universities, small liberal arts schools, etc. Start looking broadly, then let him/her narrow the search.

Jenni

Do research and visit several college campuses before you decide on the college to attend. Get a feel for the college community, visit some classes if able, sit in on a meeting, talk to professors in your prospective field of study, eat in the local cafe, and talk to some current students on campus. Find out the real deal about the college, not just what the administrators and tour guides tell you. Do your homework before you make a final decision, because this decision is the most important and most expensive choice of your life and will make a true difference in your life.

Ashlyn

Anyone who is in the middle of the college selection process should cast a wide net as far as the types and number of schools they apply to. Once you have a field of accepted schools, it's much easier to select a college because you are already in! Also, bear in mind practical thinking when picking a college- do you like the classrooms and teachers? Is walking across campus a lot of work or does it take a long time? Also consider the climate of where your college is located. Sure, the campus looks pretty now, but will you want to walk across it when it's covered in snow over half of the school year? These things are important to consider because you likely know yourself- do you tend to sleep in late or hate walking outside in the winter? These things can make or break how you percieve your college, and they have nothing to do with academics or a social life. The main thing to keep in mind is to decide how much of a change you do (or don't) want to make when heading off to your new college!

Kevin

First, pick a major that is of great interest to you. Work with counselors from local and out of state colleges and see what schools have to offer. Choose the college that best suits your interests and personality. Take time to visit as many colleges with your parents as you can, as this provided me with what choices I had and to finally make the right choice. As for the college experience, I was blessed to be able to play on the Fighting Scots Football team at Maryville College. Even though this is my second year at Maryville and I have not played in a varsity football game, I have been able to play in junior varsity scrimmages to get experience and have been told by the coaches that I will start in the Fall of 2009. The dream of attending college and playing college football for me was a dream of mine as young boy, and now that it's a reality, I couldn't be more excited. Through this experience, I've met some players that will be lifelong friends and for that I will be forever grateful. Go for it!!!! You'll be so glad you did!!!

Jenni

First choose a school that fits your needs. This includes academically, socially, extracurricular activities available, and financially. Also, choose a school that has an excellent reputation for student success and job placement for students after graduation. Talk to current students, they can tell you exactly what campus life is like; pros and cons. Talk to professors about interests and ideas, it will help you get a feel for the college. Attend a class or two if applicable. Compare different schools and choose at least two that you are interested in and apply. Then try to wait patiently... Once you are accepted and start classes, get involved! Attend seminars, go to a couple of football games, become a member on student council, join a club that reflects your interests, whatever you wanna do. Take some classes that appeal to you. Learn as much as you can about not only your major but your interests as well. Meet different people, get out of your comfort zone. Make the most out of your college experience, its a short ride. Most importantly, have fun and do your best! Once you graduate, then the job hunt begins and it is a whole different ballgame.

Catherine

Choose a place where you feel comfortable. Also, choose a school that you can afford. The average college graduate leaves college with a lot of student debt, and you don't want to be overwhelmed with paying back student loans while trying to find a job. Most importantly you should choose a school that offers a major that will accomodate your goals in the profession you wish to enter after graduating.

Matthew

The best thing anyone can do when looking for at applying to colleges is to visit campuses. When you visit a campus you can feel the atmosphere of that college. Pick a college with an atmosphere where you feel like you belong and you're not a stranger; a campus where you fit in. Try not to dwell on the statistics a college will throw at you. Any type of college can find a good statistic about itself. If you choose a college based on statistics but feel out of place or feel like you don't belong then you wont enjoy your college experience and enjoying the college experience can be one of the many basis's for enjoying life. If, for the most part, you are enjoying yourself at college it will ne easier to learn and make the grades you need to get into grad school or find the job you want. So when you're thinking about a college make sure to visit it and base your decision on the campus atmosphere.

Ashley

Choose the best school for what you want to do with your life. Once you are at that college get involved within that group. I chose my college based on my future career and it's the best place I could have picked. I love it more every day being involved in the club on campus directed towards my future career.

Sara

Do your homework and find the college that has the best fit. The quality of education will be more beneficial in the end, so take your time, visit the campus during the school year to really get the feel of the atmosphere. Don't rush, start no later than your junior year in high school to start looking around.