Marywood University Top Questions

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

Adam

Make my decision sooner it would make the whole college process much easier and preparing much simpler.

Kelsey

I would tell myself not to be scared. I was so ready but so afraid to leave home. The thought of being on my own was exhilarating and frightening at the same time. I would tell myself not to go home on the weekends as much. To go explore the city and make new friends, to really get involved with the community and not be afraid to make a jump, to take a chance. I would tell myself to do everything, try everything, experience everything.

Deborah

I would tell myself just how intelligent I was and how much potential I had. I've always been shy and had a low self-esteem, always thinking I wasn't good enough. Even though I was valedictorian in high school, I didn't look into other colleges or majors. My mom wanted me to be a nurse and I applied at the local nursing school, even though I wanted to be a doctor. I would tell myself "You are good enough! In fact, you are the best of the best!" I would encourage myself to look into scholarships (God I wish I could have done it on-line in 1984) and apply to schools like Temple in Philadelphia. I had the grades, the drive, the ambition, but I lacked the confidence in myself. I would tell myself "You will love living away from your parents. You will be free to study and make friends. You will be successful!" I was so shy and depended on my family to support me. I didn't know that I could support myself and not only survive, but to thrive! With age comes wisdom but being young again- what a dream!

Alexis

Dear Alexis, I know you are so excited to step foot into the real world and to finally be out of high school, but take a moment to appreciate everyone around you. You will not see most of these people again for a long time. Also, take a moment to appreciate the place and teachers who have educated you for the past twelve years. You will eventually miss this high school which you find to be so dreadful and useless. College is going to be the best time of your life, but before deciding what you think you want to do with the rest of your life, listen to not only your heart, but also to your parents. You're going to find out that they are right one hundred percent of the time... (hard to believe, I know). Most importantly, do not be afraid to meet new people. The transition into college is going to be tough, but it is going to change your life. Stay organized and stay focused. Your GPA is what is going to make or break you within the next few years. Be yourself and stay beautiful on the inside and out. Love, Future Alexis

savannah

If i could go back in time and give the high school senior me advice, i would start off by saying that maybe i spent too much time getting involved with anything and everything at school and not enough time worrying about my grades and education. I loved to be involved with sports, clubs, theater, you name it. As much as i loved everything i was involved in, i knew that the majority of those things wouldnt help me in college. I would also tell my self that college is nothing like high school and focusing then could have made a world of difference now. That the transition was easy at first but just like life, it gets harder. I would tell my self to really be prepared and start giving it my all before it is too late. All in all, i would tell my self that socially i will be prepared for college, that i learned so many life and leadership skills in high school that i will do just fine, but to be ready to get my butt kicked education wise, becuase i cant use anything i learned at cheer camp in anatomy.

Macy

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to not be so nervous to start over. The main concern about most students when going into college is whether they will fit in or not. However, I would remind myself that everyone else is in the same position (they don't know everyone either), so do not worry. Everyone that I met thus far in college have been really nice and not as judgmental as a highschool senior may think. Also, I would tell myself to get involved! Getting involved is a nice way to meet other students and make new relationships. And lastly, I would say to be yourself and be the best you can be!

Amberly

“2,340 days. It has been a long journey from kindergarten to the end of our senior year…” That was how my valedictorian speech started. Standing up there, giving that speech I had little idea what my future held aside from attending Marywood University. If I could go back in time, I would tell that graduating senior to stop worrying. The high school version of me was scared that college would be a big academic transition. Visions of twenty page papers and impossible math problems swirled around in my mind. In reality, college is manageable because, in high school, I had developed the strong work ethic that I would need. Even more than the workload, I was worried about making new friends. Looking back, that was one of the easiest parts of the transition to college. At the summer orientation, I made my first friend. By the end of my freshman year, I had already formed a group of friends that will last a lifetime. I would tell my high school self that college is what you choose to make it. And from what I see, it will be the best four years of your life, so enjoy every moment.

William

If I had the ability to go back in time as a high school senior I would give myself this advice for college. First start looking for all the scholarship and grants that I could possibly apply for and get busy on making the packets and getting them before the deadlines. Secondly, I would still follow my career path as when I was a senior at my high school I was already a US Army Reserve. Only this time ensure you take the GI Bill regardless of the monthly fee that must be paid. By utilizing the GI Bill I would be able to get out of the Army and have funding for college, unlike now. Thirdly, I would apply myself harder so that I could make the Dean’s list and be in some sort of honors program. Your high school achievements really matter when applying for colleges and scholarships/grants. This shows the organizations and college what potential you have as a student and succeed in your pursuit of a degree in your chosen field. If I had this opportunity to go back in time and give myself advise, these are the things I would tell myself.

Alisha

Alisha, no matter what your counselors tell you, you ARE eligible for dual-enrollment in classes other than Math and English. Take as many classes in dual enrollment a you can handle, because it will save you a lot of time and money. You will not be able to make much with work study programs so it would be best for you to find an okay job and work part-time. The extra cash will be needed later. Because of your high grades and other academic achievements paired with your charm and friendliness, you will receive many offers to travel the country and the world with different programs at your first college. If you do not find work, lack of funds will cause you to miss out on these opportunities. Our mother will try to convince you that you do not need a job. Do not listen. You are intelligent and capable. You CAN handle part-time work and full-time schooling. Do not allow anyone to hold you back. Make your own decisions and be a thinker! What lesson do I want you to learn from me? College is not a gift. It must be earned. Earn it!

Michael

I chose to attend Marywood because i got an offer for a full acedemic scholarship., but halfway through my first semester, i realized that i do not want to stay home and commute to college anymore, and i would rather go away to college, and so i am applying for this scholarship to take with me to westchester, because i didnt apply to anywhere else when marywood offered me that scholarship. so if i was to go back to highschool and give myself advise, i would tell myself to be sure of where i would like to go, and be sure of what i want at the college level. i believe that is the best advice i would be able to give myself.

Mary

College has been a very interesting, yet very rewarding experience. I’ve experienced times of elation, sadness, frustration and accomplished. I had no idea what college would be like nor what my future had in store for me when I graduated high school. If I had known, I would have made different choices. I suffered greatly from depression and loneliness after my first couple years and ended up leaving. I felt like I had made my parents paid so much for me to end up with no degree. I felt like a loser. However, I learned through that time that it is not the degree that matters. It is what you learned that matters. If all you get out of college is a piece of paper and a large bill, then there is no reason to go. The reward is the knowledge, the understanding, and the end of an experience that will affect you for the rest of your life. I am happy to be back in school after taking a couple years off to overcome my personal obstacles and to learn that lesson. I look forward to finishing, so I can look back and say “Well done!”

Andrew

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience. I joined the work force right out of high school. I finally decided I wanted something more out of life so I took a pharmacy technician course. It has been very valuable to attend because it has opened up so many doors to me. Now I want to continue my education to be a pharmacist. I never would have been exposed to that world if I hadn't gone to college in the first place.

Claire

I hope to graduate from Marywood University with my Bachelor's degree in Photography and my minor in Graphic Design. I have a few different possibilities in mind as to what I would like use my degree in for. One of the possibilities would be to work for a magazine company or a newspaper shooting photos for their stories. Another possibility which is the one I would like to do the most is to open my own photography studio and shoot portraits of people and possibly commercial work for different companies. I know that after I graduate from Marywood that they will do their best to help me find the best career for me so that I can achieve my goals with my degree.

Cristin

College has enabled me to open doors in unexpected places. Without the diversity of learning and people I met while in college I would not be the person I am today. Any money spent on education is an investment in your future. I paves the way to new beginnigs. I never regret spending my hard earned money on my and my families education. I know I will get the biggest return from investing in the education of my children and myself.

Kyra

I gained a teaching degree which means the world to me. I love being a teaching and it is the only things I could ever see myself doing. If I could do it again I would not have picked Marywood but I am glad for the Eduation I got and was able to gain the degree that I so needed to achieve my life goal.

Danelle

I have been given the chance to learn and to expand my knowledge of the world. It has opened my eyes to further my education so that I may help others. I have learned about the importance of our planet and the people who live here. College has been important in helping me understand what I was ment to do in this life time.

stefanie

I just started at Marywood University, on June twenty fifth to start a summer program for six weeks. This gave me a chance to stay on campus in a dorm, to experience what it will be like when I offically start school here in the fall. My SAT scores were a little low 1160, therefore in order for me to bring that score up, Marywood offered me an oppurtunity to take and English and Math coourse, so I would be ready for College in the fall. So I am here experiencing College early. It has been hard working, giving up my summer. But such and oppurtunity. I have been working really hard, and the college experience has been great. I realized that this extra studing has been such I great learning experience. First I was upset that I did not score higer on the SAT'S. But I realized the great experience I have had here, has made me understand and realize that sometimes if you want something in life you have to work for it. It has been really hard studing over the summer, but everyone at the school, Teachers and faculty have helped me alot, with college.

Colleen

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience. I am an Elementary and Special Education major and Marywood has a very good education program. The first semester here they give you a class that introduces you to your field experience. Field experience actually gets you out there into schools to observe before you do student teaching. This is very helpful because you a lot of experience in the major so you definitely know if it?s truly what you want to do for the rest of your life. I can?t speak for the rest of the majors but I know that the program I am in here is truly amazing and teaches many useful things for my future.

Joseph

If I were to go back in time I would tell myself never to give up. The transition will be hard, no doubt, but never let your gaurd down and don't ever let up. College is a new experience, completely different from anything you have ever experienced. Relationships will be lost, but also new ones will be made, but true friends will be there forever, so no need to worry. Keep your chin up. If something seems hard, don't throw in the towel and slack off, know that the rewards of finishing will be greater than that of giving up. Don't always think that college will be difficult. Take advantage of opportunites, but do so by making solid and smart decisions. And on top of everything...have FUN!

Chelsea

I've enjoyed making the transition from high school teen adolescent to college student and young adult; However, if a time machine presented itself I would absolutely find myself doodling in fourth period algebra class and say "Enjoy this, because college may feature fun, friends and freedom but it requires a lot of focus.. so get ready." Honestly, I wouldn't scare myself by highlighting the college tuition fees, freshmen fifteen and heavy homework load. I would simply pep talk myself with something like this: "Listen up and listen good. You are going to have fun and a lot of it. You're going to meet complete strangers who will turn into best friends. You'll meet some of the coolest professors who are intelligent and down-to-earth, and actually teach you things that you'll remember. But college is no walk in the park. Please, don't freak out at the crazy book prices; you will read them and need them for tests. Take notes and go to class because it's costing a lot of money anyways. And for god sakes, do the extra work, it will pay off. If you learn, life's a breeze. "

Victoria

If I could rewind time somehow and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would give myself advice that would make college easier and more rewarding. Probably the first thing I would tell myself is to stop procrastinating! When either homework or a paper is assigned, put time and effort into finishing it as soon as possible. Don't rush it, but do not put it on the back burner until the night beforehand. Doing this will not only allow me to hang out with friends more often, but it will prevent pulling an all-nighter that no one will be happy about the next morning. The other advice I would give myself is to be social and just have fun. Yes, college is about gaining an education, but if that means not having a good time along the way, well, then reinvent yourself somewhere else. College is a place to reinvent you and learn as many new things as possible. This is considered the times of ours lives, so stop sitting and watching it fast-forward around you and do something about it. Just live in the moment and of course, learn along the way.

Tess

If I could go back in time and give myself some advice with my present knowledge of college life and the transition to it, I would say: first of all, breathe! Orientation is scary at first, but you will make it through it. There is no need in freaking out over it, because everyone else is in the same situation. Second of all, don't forget to pack doubles of everything you use at home. You are on your own now, so that means mom won't be there with her never ending supply of back up tooth brushes and tampons. Third of all, you don't need the big meal plan. It's a waste of money! Fourth of all, don't underestimate the cost of books. Save up your money, because they are expensive! Finally, just be yourself and try to stay calm, because you will make friends and always remember home is only a phone call away.

Kira

Note to self: -creative writing major is not useful for the purposes of becoming a novelist, there is no degree needed -attend a college with multiple majors available if, for some reason, you need to change your major, you will have something to change it to -cramming for a 9 am exam until 5 am in the morning...bad idea -just because the cafeteria is buffet style does not mean you should eat all you can -stress can be easily relieved by gazing out the window, watching the snowflakes fall with a cup of hot chocolate, a fuzzy blanket, and a good book -late night card games in the lounge-best idea ever -if you see anyone trying to bake cookies in the microwave, stop them before the fire alarm starts -do your homework, show up for class, and participate: many professors count these in when grading and it can sometimes bring a C+ to B- -get a good amount of sleep before class, falling asleep during class disrupts the learning process -if you have a peephole, use it, opening the door to drunk, half-naked men in the hallway may cause a great shock to your sleep deprived brain

Amy

Dear High School Senior Amy, Instead of thinking of living hours away from home as a scary situation, consider it the perfect opportunity to meet life-long friends and to dive into what you love doing. Now for the ugly truths: The girl you talked to at orientation might have seemed nice during your five minute conversation, but she may not be so nice once you're living in the same room. Instead of requesting a friend as a roommate, take a chance; let housing match you with someone you think has nothing in common with you. Chances are you'll learn a lot from each other. As willing as you are to make the five-hour drive home, don't. Force yourself to stick around for the weekend. Go to campus activities, as silly as they may seem. You never know who you'll meet at "Rootbeer Pong." Study, study, study! Don't leave heavy studying for finals week. Reading over notes a few times a week will save your sanity during finals week when everyone else is cramming. Oh, and that guy you're seeing is definitely not as important as your happiness at college! Love, College Amy

Krista

Just relax. College is different from high school in that there are no social cliques to worry about because the people you spend the most time with are people like you. Everyone just wants to make you feel welcome and help you out. Take the time you need to study and practice, however much time that may be. Challenge yourself to be your very best.

London

Through my experience in college thus far I have realized that the more you appreciate the fact that your parents have put their time and effort into making sure you get into and through college, I have come to be a better student. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to stay focused and keep my life goals in mind. I would also tell myself to prove myself worthy to my parents and give them good grades in return for their undying support. I would make sure to remind myself that college is not easy and it takes determination and hard work to get A's and the only way I am going to get good grades is to earn them.

diane

I joined the Army out of High School and had to go to the Persian Gulf War. I am now suffering form the gulf war syndrome. My advice would obvisously be, not to join the Army. But I probably wouldn't have listened to myself. My advice would be that I know that I personally had a great deal of doubt in myself and my abilities. I wish I could just tell myself to believe in myself and that everything will be okay. I rank 14th my senior year and maybe I lacked the guidance that I needed. I am blessed with being intelligent, I wish I could have seen my potential then. I realize that I made a mistake and now try hard in believing in myself.

Jamie

A couple of things I would tell myself. The first thing is that there will always be time for fun. Concentrate on classes first. Make friends or college life can be very lonely. Start organizing yourself, keep a schedule, there are a lot of things to keep track of. Get extra help from a teacher in writing papers and how to study by yourself. The last thing I would tell myself, RELAX , college life is really a lot of fun.

Heather

Walking to class on a Fall afternoon, I feel as though I am free. I am outside with the wind and the squirrels. Beyond me is a future filled with the happiness that comes along with a rewarding career. I have friends and a promising future. In high school however, this feeling was quite different. Walking to class was more like walking down a crowded street with no direction and no idea what to expect around the corner. I used to worry about what my classmates thought of me and whether or not the teacher would make me stand up in front of the class. I was shy and scared. Looking back on my senior year, I would love to give myself some advice: Don't worry about what others want or think. Make decisions based on personal factors that lead to rewarding experiences. Don't be afraid to talk to new people, and always be true to who you are. Look around you and know that your classmates are in the same place you are. Although your future is uncertain now, remember that you control it's direction. You are bright and college is your chance to prove it.

Victoria

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself how easy it is to procrastinate in college and how easy it is to get sucked into your social life and forget about school work. I would tell myself to stay focused and remember that I am there to get a degree and better my life. I would advice myself to try new things and form good relationships with people because your college friends are the friends you will have for the rest of your life. I would tell myself how important I feel it is to live on campus because it allows you to be more independent and socialize. Living on campus forces you to solve your own problems and not rely on your parents so much. Learn from your college experiences and grow from them. Make mistakes and learn from them. College will be one of the best and memorable experiences of your life.

kelcie

Keep an open mind.

Alexandra

Go out and don't be afraid! Make sure you have motivation, inspiration and the willingness to stick it out. It's okay if you don't know exactly what you want to do. Just know a direction and work towards a goal of being HAPPY. It will lead you to what you are supposed to do. I would attend a smaller school in a high populated area. Location has a huge effect on your college experience. Attending a small school in a city provides the close interaction between students and faculty and also the ability to leave campus and have a wide variety of activities to take part of without relying on school to come up activites for you. The school will become your family and the city is your playground. The best part of it is exploring and seeing what else is out there. Use the resources around you with the high attention you can get from your mentors to maximize your education. It goes way beyond textbooks and lectures, enjoy the American metropolis!

Danielle

Don't be afraid to look at schools that are bigger. Look more into state schools, there is no need to get away from home. Stay in Jersey! Remember to time manage and get involved!

Jessica

Look straight into the sun, and run like wild fire. Your education is the best key in life and never doubt that you can gain a new understanding. There's so many cultures, views, and ways of life and in college, you can experience them all. Stay focused, make friends, and everything else will fall into place. You already have the fire, now run.

Samantha

If i could go back in time, I would let myself know that it's okay to change your mind. It's okay to try new things and not always have things planned to a "T". I would say, do what makes you happy, because alitmately, that is what learning is all about.

Kyle

I would tell myself that money is one of the biggest limiting factors in college and I should try to get more financial aide. Even though it is something that everyone preachs, it is the most important and most difficult part of my college career. I work almost full time to be able to put myself through college and I wish that I could worry about money less. So the biggest advantage I could give myself would be looking for more scholarships.

Anna

A great way to narrow down finding a school is to first think of how far you want to be from home....do you want to commute, be a few hours away, a days trip away, across the country? Once you know the area you want to be in then look for the size of school you think you would fit best in. Then look into majors/concentrations, religious affiation, Greek life, sports teams, etc (whatever is important to YOU). Always remember! Visit the campus' you are looking at. It is a smart idea to see what the campus looks like and meet some people. This will give you an idea if you feel comfortable...remember, you will be spending a good amount of time at school!

Trisha

The most important part of choosing a college is the visit. It is crucial that you feel welcome and at home on this campus, this will be your home for the next 4 years. I would recommend visiting a few times including an overnight visit. This visit will really tell you whether or not this school is for you. You will get to interract with many students that go there and stay in a dorm for a night. This is always my suggestion to students deciding on a school, especially if they are torn between two. When I came home from my overnight stay at Marywood I immediately knew that was the place for me, and i sent in my papers that day. While you are at a visit at your prospective school I would also reccomend that you speak with someone from the department you intend on studying in, this will give you a look into where you will be spending your time and if you like the people there.

Britteney

Find a college that is not to big or not to small. Make sure there is jobs, and stuff to do off campus so your child does not feeled traped. Also make sure they are high rating in there majors, and also make sure that the college will help your child fin a job after they graduate. I know that Marywood does it they help you find interships, and also jobs for after you graduate so they know they did there part. Also see how big there classroom are Marywood only lets twenty-five students in to each class. So that the teacher can interact with you hand on hand. Also so that you can disscution, debates, speeches and powerpoints. Look for a school that you will know your child will be safe, study, and also have fun. So you are not worrying abou them all the time.

Samantha

I would tell them to wait. In today's America, it has become common practice for high school graduates to go straight to college. They are conditioned to think they have to go straight to college and know exactly what to do. If parents want to save the money and the student wants to save the time, they should wait. Experience life before they settle down for four years in a school they picked when they were 18. Get to know themselves before they go and pick a major that they find out they never really liked and only picked it because it sounded cool or would lead them to lots of money. So, if both the parents and the student could be patient in the high speed, immediate satisfaction society, then waiting would be the best way to find the right college and making the most of their college experiences.

angel

My advice would be to check out the schools even before you apply. you need to get a feel for the school, that way you know if you are truely interested. A visit to the campus for an open house is the best way to go. Ifyou have friends or family memebers that have attented the school talk to them as well. Also, talk with your parents about where you want to go and how to they feel. your parents advice matters a great deal even if you think it doesnt

Dawn

Find a college that best suits your personallity and what you like. Along with academics, the campus and surrounding area is key to a students happiness .

Kelly

To the students... Don't go to a college where your friends from high school are going. Even if you are scared, go somewhere where you want to go, it's a new beginning, and you should make the most of it. You will be a new person and make new friends, and it will truly be the "best years of your life". Be true to yourself, and don't do things you don't want to--even if you think it'll help you fit in better with the crowd. To the parents... Encourage your children to be the best they want to be, and help them make their college decisions, it means a lot to students. And always be a phone call away no matter how far home is from school.

Xhevat

Enjoy it!

Tyler

remeber college is an experience. the knowlege you learn outside the class room will be more valuable to the lessons learned in the class room. just get that degree and graduate.

Kristen

The advice I would give to students about finding the right college is to be sure to have an open mind. Be sure to check out and actually visit as many colleges that interest you as possible and really take them all in for what they're worth. What's most important is being sure you have that "at home" feeling while you walk across that campus. To make the most of your college experience I would advise you to stay active. Get involved in as many things on campus that you can without being overloaded. You meet a lot of really great people and have the great oppurtunity to stay involved with activities you love. All of that is real important as you are studying and doing school work. You need that outlet of non-academic related activities and friends to keep you going! Good Luck!

Kandarp

Before you choose the college you want your son/daughter or your self would like to go to, research the college. Know the graduation rate, girl to guy ratio, ethnic ratio, tution and the diffrent programs they offer. In addition, visite the campus in advance before choosing the college.

Kristen

Deciding on which college to go to is a big decision and can be very confusing. Each college is unique and each person has a unique quality that draws them to a certain place. I would say when trying to find the right college, to go with your gut. If a place feels right to you, then chances are that it is. To make the most out of your college experience, do what feels right. Always make time for your schoolwork, but don't forget to have a good time. You only life once, so do your best.

Mary

If I could advise parents and students to find the right school I'd start by asking them some simple questions. How soon do they want to be done with college? How much do they want to pay? I would have them compare liberal arts school with specific study schools and even colleges on the internet. I would tell them that sometimes small school the longer your there seem smaller and big schools the longer your there seem bigger, are they ok with that? I'd tell them to keep in mind that the price they pay to go there freshman year might go up the longer they're there. I'd encourage them to go on facebook and look up students that go there and ask them questions becuase the students that give tours and overnights talk the school up and it's hard to leave with a rounded view of the school. I'd tell them to look at the groups people in the school have made up. It's a good way to find out the bad stuff, they may or may not matter to them.

Jessica

Definitely do the overnight experiences, spend time on campus, and just get a general feel for the place. It doesn't matter what you say you want to do right from the beginning, most people come to realize the direction they want to take in life pretty quickly once they really get into the swing of things. I realized I was in the wrong major within the first two weeks.