Maryville University of Saint Louis Top Questions

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

GEORGE

im very ok with where i am now.

Brittany

Knowing what I know now about college life and academia outside of high school, I would tell myself to take a breath once in a while. Don't over work yourself. Take time to stop and enjoy the moment because it won't come around again. Make mistakes, make hard and fast choices, but learn from them. Take the time to make friends. Who knows if they will be the one person to change your life. Pick a major that suits you. Not one that will make you quick money. Do something that makes you happy and do it with passion. If you follow these rules, you will end up not only excelling in college but in life as well.

Jennifer

There are so many things that I would love to say to “high school Jenn”, although I doubt it would have made any difference at all knowing my stubborn self. Deltona isn’t the center of the universe and you will get out! You may want to make a few life and attitude adjustments to help out future Jenn though. My advice is simple and heartfelt. Pay attention in class-you might learn something and a scholarship would have been glorious. Give the professors that actually care, the respect and recognition that they deserve- after all it is those professions that inspire you to be a better person in the long run. Give mom and dad a break-they work hard every day to ensure that you have the things you need and will stand behind you through all of the crazy jumps and falls that you will experience in your journey. Keep family close- to pursue your dreams, you runaway. Call, visit, and keep in touch with the “Crazy Corkins”, ultimately they end up being pretty amazing. Smile, laugh and love deeply… And yes, Nick Brow… He is “the one”, although he makes you wait 11years for that ring!

Stephanie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advise myself to apply to more colleges and keep my options open. I was so set on going to a small college, that I didn't look at the bigger universities to see what they had to offer. This mistake is actually causing me to transfer next year. Both small and large universities have a lot to offer, but they offer different things. It's important to keep your mind open and apply to multiple different types of universities so that you can make the best decision when the time comes. Although you might feel set on a certain type of college, it is important to look at the options and weight the pros and cons. I would also advise staying closer to home. At the end of senior year, all any seniors can think about is getting far away from home. However, once you are far away from home, and everyone around you gets to go home to their families and fresh cooked meals, you begin to regret your decision of going too far away from home.

Kaylee

I would tell myself to follow my intuition. Changing schools in August is entirely possible, so don't stress out. Also, don't be afraid. College is a big place, but you will be alright. It's scary walking in and knowing no one, but it's worth every minute for the friends you will eventually make.

francisc

i would advise myself to study more in highschool ao i could get a better scholarship

Keith

I would tell myself to make haste, and to take time to grow. Most high school seniors are more than ready to head off to college and enjoy the experience before graduation. I would emphasize that the time before college should be cherished. After all, it is the last chance to enjoy Mom's home-cooking, sleep in one's personal bed, and to enjoy the comforts of one's geographical location. Also, I would emphasize the importance of taking the ACT/SAT as many times as possible to enhance one's score. In doing so, this increases one's chances of getting more scholarship money and getting accpeted into more schools. Lastly, I would tell myself to apply to more than one school to allow for a wider range of selection choices. Moreover, if one does not get accepted into their desired school of choice, a number of different schools applied to act as a backup source.

Andre

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior the first thing I would have to tell myself is don't let this year pass you by without outstanding academic accomplishments because college is expensive and the better you do now the easier things will be. I would let myself know that despite the stress than hindered my focus in school that in time things would get better and right now academics is far more detremental to having a successful future. I would assure myself that college isnt easy but the struggle is worth it as long as you work hard in order to achieve that dream career that I desire. The last thing I would tell myself is that in college you are responsible for yourself what you do and don't do affects you and your family so being lazy is not an option and that the time to prepare yourself for this is right now.

Jacqueline

Your first year of college, you shoudl work less and study more. Working 60 hours a week and going to school full time is not the smartest decision. You should either work less or take less than a full load semester. Money will work its self out. Keep working hard at both work and your career and it will pay off. Don't think about giving up and don't be too hard on yourself.

Lauren

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior about college life and making the transition, I would have a fairly long list of advice to give myself. One of the most important pieces of advice I would give myself is that it is important not only to do what is required for the classes, but also attend some of the activities on campus. These are great ways to mingle and find friends and connections that may be important later in life. I would also advise myself that it is important to take a little time each day to relieve stress and anxiety, wether it be by drawing, going for a run, or hanging out with friends. It's important not to let stress build up so that every bump in the road seems like a big deal. Another piece of advice I would give myself is that it is important to begin setting up time strictly for studying and doing homework. Procrastination can be a huge burden in college, and even if you didnt have to study in highschool, it is necessary to know how and apply it in college life.

Missy

My college experience at Maryville University has been exceptional. I have grown as a person both intellectually and emotionally during my college years. This college experience allowed me to "grow up" in a quiet atmosphere where I could feel at home but still be living on my own. This campus is small and seclueded from the city life, and yet close enough that you are a twenty minute drive from downtown St. Louis where all the action is! There are plenty of extra curricular activities to keep you busy if you choose and plenty of quiet study areas to keep you academically focused. I learned to be culturally diverse and accepting, at the same time I was learning my own morals and values.

Melanie

I have gained a lot of friends, and just knowledge from high school that I did not know before. A good education is important to me, and being successful in the long run and not having to live pay check to pay check will be very nice!

Adam

I came from another state to attend this school. The difference in culture was surprising, yet a great change. The culture at Maryville Univeristy is one of its strong points. I have yet to think about going somewhere else!

Jessica

I grew up in a small, close-minded community that offered safety and familiarity but left me no room to grow. By choosing to attend a university in the city, away from home, I opened myself up to limitless opportunities for meeting new people, experiencing other cultures, and allowing my love for learning to grow. My college experiences at Maryville have made me a leader, a critical thinker, and an independent adult with the ability to thrive in the real world. After coming from a high school that didn't offer much in the way of extracurriculars, I have enjoyed all the involvement opportunities Maryville has for its students. I have been on the University's Orientation Team, served as a Peer Mentor, participated in intramurals, held the presidential role in several organizations, and travelled to Florida and New Orleans for community service trips. My involvement on campus and in the community is my way of giving back to a family that has given so much to me. College is constantly giving me new tools to deal with the situations life hands me.

Chris

In my first year at Maryville, I have learned more about myself then I ever did in 4 years of high school. I have found out what I want to do, which has given me a goal to work towards, which has made me a more dedicated person to everything I do. With that dedication I've earned the respect of my classmates, teammates, and coworkesrs as well as my family and my group of friends. I've learned what it takes to be a successful student, and I'm heading in the right direction to be a better student. I'm not happy with my GPA only being a 3.0. My first year was definitely a learning experience, from which I took away many things. Learning about myself and about my future was the most important part of my first year, and without attending Maryville, under the circumstances which I attended the school and the events that occured when I arrived here, none of what I have now and what I know now could have ever been possible.

Megan

As I look back, I would look into the scholarship opportunities more and take the time to apply for them. It will help pay for your education and will not be as expensive for you and your family if they are helping you. Also I would take the time to look at multiple colleges and take the chance to visit the college. Don't just go off of what you have heard or where other friends are going. You have to make your own choices and be more independent. You will keep your close friends, but you will also grow closer with the time apart and meet new friends on campus. Also do not worry about all the work, just stay on top of your assignments, essays, and projects.

Jasmine

I would tell myself not to stress so much. That I would be going t o a school by wihtout anyone from my high school which would be scarry at first, but that I would meet some amazing people. I would also say not to worry about any drama or conflicts that are going on currently, because a year from now I wouldn't even remember it. Also that I did stay in contact with the people that were important to me. It takes a little work, but it gets you manage. I would remind myself to call my home more, because I know that it really hurts my family when I don't call to check in once and a while.

Samantha

Dear High School Sam, College is not easy! Get more involved, you meet the best people and it opens up a whole new world for you. You will succeed and you will be happy. Don't take things seriously and learn to relax. You can't sweat the small stuff. Learn to prioritize and not procrastinate. Get a tutor in math and chemistry now, don't be afraid to ask for help, if you don't it will kick your butt later. People do want to help you succeed. Learn good homework and study habits now so you don't stuggle later. Get friends that appreciate you for who you are, it boosts your self-esteem. Take advantage of every opportunity given to you. Oh ya, have fun! Love College Sam

Becca

The only advice that I would give to myself as a senior would be make sure that you are prepared. There is no time to slack off in college. If you fall behind in your first year, then you will constantly just be catching up the remander years. Also make sure you know how to study. Know what is your best method of studying and make sure you stay concentrated. Other than that just enjoy the years that you spend in college, because you cannot yet them back.

Taylor

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there are many things I would say. The first would be "PAY ATTENTION IN CALCULUS!!" Math is absolutely the hardest thing not to forget how to do, it is definitely not like riding a bike. Other than that golden piece of advice, I would just tell myself to make sure that I enjoy my senior year, and to make the same good decisions that I was taught to and never to compromise my own morals for the wishes of others. Although I have held true to everything I have said that I would tell myself (save for the mathmatecal situation), a gentle reminder never hurts.

Kellie

Get focused. Get all the pre requisites out of the way even if undecided on major. WHat you do know affects the future. Think before you act.

Jennifer

College is fun, but also requires a lot of study time. As long as you stay focused and goal oriented, you will do just fine. Never procrastinate when writing a paper, start researching right away on your topic. Don't stress the small stuff, there are always alternative options.

Lisa

Well, I would definetely have taken school more seriously and not dropped out of college at the time, because it took a while to get me back. But I can say that I am more focused and want to learn more as I have gotten older and am paying for it myself.

Kathleen

I would tell myself to be more outgoing and to give myself more of a chance to meet new people. Don't be afraid to go to an event by yourself, because you will definitely not be the only solo one. Go to all the events you can and enjoy them before school gets too serious and difficult. Money is great, but it is not worth working so many hours that you lose out on friendships and getting the best grades you can. Don't be afraid to speak up in class and participate, people will like you for who you are, not to mention that you're grade depends on it. Most of all, do your best, work hard, but enjoy every moment of it because it goes by faster than you would think.

Jeffrey

Be sure you know what you want to do before choosing a major.

Amy

Dear high school Amy, Knowing what I've experienced the last two years at college, I'll tell you a few pieces of advice. First and most importantly: don't be afraid to be yourself and reach out to others first. Most everyone will appreciate friendliness and will talk to you if you talk to them. Don't be afraid to explore new things and get involved in many things to find your passion. Don't procrastinate, do your homework, and study; college is a lot more challenging than high school. If you have a question about ANYTHING, ask. Someone will be able to help you, and if they can't, they will direct you to someone who can. Take advantage of the experiences you encounter, leadership and volunteer opportunities, and be involved in what makes you happy. College is for working hard to earn a degree, but it's also time to find yourself and your passion, make life-long friends, establish connections, practice responsibiliy, and having fun. Keep up with your work in high school, save money, and enter college with a positive, welcoming attitude. Don't be scared; it'll be GREAT! --The experienced Amy

Casey

Go with what makes you feel the best when you visit. No one can make the decision but you. Parents can give good input on what they think would be good for you, but only you can decide what is best for you and your future.

Rebekah

Students should visit as many colleges as they possibly can. These colleges should vary in population and location. The college that just feels secure and right in both the heart and mind should be the college that a student should choose. Tuition, location, and what the college offers are very important in the decision making process; these are three factors that made me decide that my college that I attend was perfect for me. Students should decide for themselves and remember that no others' opinions should alter their own.

Kaitlin

College is a time for exploring who you are and what you can become, just remember that change is okay. It's okay to change your major, it's okay to change your friends, and it is okay to change your interests and activites. Just remember to make choices that you won't regret later and keep an open mind. As long as you don't let go of your morals, traditions, and standards, these choices will come naturally. As far as choosing a college, don't let finanical barriers get in the way, you will be in debt no matter what and choose a school that has your sencond choice major! Don't push yourself over the edge, take time to breath, not time out of school. Seek the help of those around you who have been through what your are going through now. Your friends will help you through the best and worst, last and first. Overall, listen to yourself and trust your instinct, what is best for you, afterall it is your life - you have to live with your decisions. As always, life is way too short - live it up and have fun!

Allison

I would tell students to visit as many colleges as possible and just try to imagine yourself attending classes there. To make the most of your college experience I would tell students to try different things and join clubs to see what you most enjoy.

Lauren

Go with your gut feeling. Do not choose a college just because of your best friend or friends. It is good to meet new people because most likely they will be your closest friends for the rest of your life. Make the most of your college experience and really interact with extracurricular activities. Do not be afraid to try something new; you never know until you try. Become involved in whatever you can.

Alicia

The right college should feel like home. The best way to discover if the campus has this feeling is to schedule a campus visit. The people at that college should be welcoming and friendly. They should be willing to assist you through the entire college experience. This includes financial aid, academic advising, and picking a residence hall. Financial aid is important. Find out what scholarships are available for you and apply early. Meet with a financial counselor to discuss your expected costs for your first year. Even if you do not know what you would like to major in, your academic advisor will help find the classes that suit you. Do not be afraid to ask questions and tell them about your interests. The residence hall should meet your needs. Make sure you pick one that accomodates your bathroom needs, and find out if floors are coed or not. Eat the food that is offered on campus prior to attending. Also ask about crime rates and security. By finding a friendly campus with financial planning, academic guidance, cleanliness, security, and edible food, college should be your home away from home.

Tiffany

I think it is an extremely important decision. Visit campuses at various times. Sit in on lectures. Meet advisors ahead of time. Get your finances in order. Consider housing. Meet students. Don't drink and drive. Don't do drugs. And focus on the future...the sky is the limit if you focus and work hard.

Arilla

The advice I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college is that no matter what the cost or what you want to do with your life, let nothing stop you from your dream. Everything will work out in the end and you just need to be happy with the decision you make. Do not allow anyone else to make the decision for you. When it comes to making the most of your college experience, enjoy it, but don't get too caught up in going out. Make sure you get all your work done first and then you can do what you want. Get out and meet people and do new things! These are said to be the best years of your life, so make that true for yourself too! Have fun and just enjoy life! These are your last years before working the rest of your life! :)

Brittany

Apply early and for many different schools during your junior and senior year of high school. It is nice to have options. Also, apply for scholarships! That is one thing I wish I would have done.

Kevin

Start visiting schools early.

Jessica

I would advise student to find a school and community they are comfortable with and they feel they can excel in. Pick a school based upon the quailty of their education and that have your personal interests. Playing a sport made my choice somewhat easier in that I wanted a school I knew I could spend my four years playing with these girls and with that coach and still have the time of my life. Finding a school that has your major in its excellence is important but also having the extra activites you enjoy is also important to make sure you enjoy your time spent at a place you will call home for 4 or more years!

Kristen

There is nothing wrong with going to a smaller school, if feels more like a family. A family that is supportive and wants to see you succeed.

Emily

Think carefully about what you really want and stick to your goal to get into a particular program

Esther

Advice that I would give a student would be to have new incoming students become more involved with their schools, and volunteer if they are able to. Being a new student, especially those students that are out of state should try to be more involved; that way they feel apart of their school and their community.

katie

I would advise them to look at the school closely but also talk with the students and faculty about how they feel about the university.

Kimmie

Visiting the school is a must. Being able to talking to people who actually go there and seeing how life on campus works is a major plus. Don't hole yourself up in your room once you do finally get to college. Leave your door open and start making friends. You'd be amazed at the people you'll meet by just saying "Hi" while walking down the hall.