MCPHS University Top Questions

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

Peyton

Dear past self, Although college is a huge transition, don't fear. I'm going to give you three tips that if I knew before, college would have been a breeze the first couple of months. First of all, plan everything. You have to have a plan for when you are going to eat, go to class and study. If you don't have a plan, you will end up not getting your homework done and regretting it later. Speaking of homework, be passionate about learning. Never once in my life did I wake up and get genuinely excited about going to high school and learning. However, here I have a newfound love for learning and if you truly enjoy and are interested in what you are learning, school sure doesn't feel like school. The last piece of advice I have for you is to respect of yourself. In college it's easy to eat junk and not workout but in all honesty, working out for me is a nice way to get homework out of the way and the junk food won't feel great when you're laying in bed at midnight trying to sleep. Good Luck!

Kasey

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have a lot of advice for my future college career. The first piece of advice that I would give to myself would be to go into college with an open mind. You cannot enter college with preconceived notions about the school or the people that you may have seen on social media that will be in your class. College is a lot different than high school. Teachers are not on your back telling you everyday that you have an assignment due on a certain day. They expect you to read the syllabus and stay organized on your own. Another piece of advice that I would offer myself is to talk to and hang out with people that you may not have associated with in high school. I have learned so much from people with different cultural backgrounds than people that I grew up with in high school. My first semester of college has taught me to be open minded to new people and situations!

Daniella

Dear Past Self, I know that right now you hate high school and people in general. You’ve been labeled a “fat nerd” and feel like that will never go away. Well, I have some news for you. Once you start college, you are going to find that more people are accepting of you. Bullying doesn’t really exist, except for the random sarcastic jokes friends will make. You are going to have a fresh start. During your second year of college, you will choose to join Weight Watchers, will lose twenty pounds, and be extremely proud of yourself. You will struggle trying to keep a balance between studying for your grades and cooking for your health. I would suggest using your calendar to schedule how much time is necessary for everything you’re doing throughout the day. It will be tempting to give up on school, a social life, and your job as an International Student Ambassador. Don’t give up. Remember why you started. I promise you that if you work hard, video chat with Mom and Dad, sleep at least six to eight hours a night, and manage your time, you will have a wonderful college experience.

Emmanuel

If I could go back in talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now, I would give myself a lot of advice that has to do with my weaknesses. For example, I would go back and talk myself into being more organized. Whether its setting up a schedule for knowing when to study or setting up money to save for future payments. I would go back and tell myself to stop acting like such a teenager and talk to my parents more, because they make the transition into college easier.

Christina

When I as a high school studet, I didn't think that college was necessary. I didn't think I could go through college on my own and be successful. If I could talk to my high school self, I would let myself know that college is a great experience and to not underestimate myself. I am a smart and hardworking student and I know that I can be the best if I try hard. I shouldn't let others put me down. Getting an education is the bets thing you can do for yourself. Noone can take your education away from you; it is yours forever. I hardly ever drink and I never smoke. I have little distractions from persuing my career. The only distraction I had was my own self and my insecurity. If I only knew that I could overcome these years later, I would have tried to push myself to get an education. But, it is never too late.

Adaeze Y

Never say never, do not be weighed down by people around you and the choice they make. Do not try to become someone else, instead strive to find who you in the Lord, and be determined to improve that person with every step you take in life. Do not feel defeated before you try a challenge. When you meet a road block on your way find a mallet to break down that wall, because God has given you the strength to overcome that wall. Learn to actually read the textbook you receive, because it will greatly affect your grade. Don't try to be anyone but yourself. Listen to your parents a lot more and you will become more successful in your education - eventhough your dad sounds anoying you should hear his words, because he is usually right. Determine to follow through with every challenge you accept and DO NOT back out, because it will build your strength. Learn from other people's mistakes and do not wait to make the same mistake, before you change. Move forward knowing that you have done your best and the rest is in God's hands.

Kaila

I would tell myself how important it is to keep your focus and not give up. I would also push myself to better prepare for my future so that I wouldn't have to go through what I am going through now in trying to go to college. I would encourage myself to apply for grants and scholarships before it was too late and I halted my education even more, which is what I have done. I'd encourage myself to think and make decisions clearly in order to better prepare myself to be a college student at a younger age than I am.

Stephanie

Don't worry about finding the right group of people to be friends with right away. Everyones in the same boat and you will find the right people. Remember that you are really smart, if you couldn't not handle this school you would not be let in. Don't let a bad grade stress you out. It's not the end of the world. Take your time and have fun in labs, don't stess about doing them right but enjoy the process, the time will go by quickly and theirs no reason to be freaking out the whole three hours. Sometimes the lowest Grade is droped and even if it's not you can do well in lab easily since their are at least 10 graded labs so one bad one won't hurt your average a lot. Last but not least remeber it's okay to be home sick and everyone is at some point, and chances are when you just want to see that famillar face from home, there will be someone down the hall felling the same way, and by the time break rolls around you'll miss them.

Kerilyn

Take advantage of any opportunity thrown your way and run with it to allow yourself to grow and develop in ways you would not think were possible.

Julie "Edie"

When I was a high school senior, I used to think I knew what having an academic future meant. It was what my friends who had been able to afford college felt. They left right after their senior year of high school, eyes shining with future academic plans and the back seats of their cars stuffed to capacity with clothes, dorm decorations and younger siblings that were helping them move. Because I had left home early, I immediately needed to work to support myself. I couldn't join my peers as they took off for colleges, on a shining path of schooling and success. Now I've become involved in the community, and I understand what my academic future really means. I've met individuals who have never received formal education, and who come from homes as broken -- or more so -- than my own. They showed me that your future is not what you live up to for other people, but what you build for yourself. I want to tell scared, high school senior me that it might take a little more time than others, but that I'll get there someday. "Embrace your unconventional self," I'd say, proudly.

Sandra

Well let me tell you this, now days you really need alot of education to get some where in life. Nothing good in the is easy. So I ask you please to stay in School and to continue on. I know you have had some tough times but it will get better. Just pray and believe and keep trying it will come together. In Gods name we Trust Amen Amen Sincerly Sandra Cooke

Stephen

Although I got into my first choice school, and early decision I would still study more to do better on my SAT's. I also would have taken more AP classes. Learn better study habits, and how not to get distracted. The best advice I would give is to study and do homework first before any socializing.

Jasmine

You can do it, just stay focused.

joviane

The advice i would give myself would be to take advantage of the learning experience and to take all the classes that would relate to my major. I would have taken AP classes more seriously and would have tried to learn time managment because of how important it is in college. I would have also tried a lot of new things in high school so it wouldn't be so new in college. In short, I woould have taken high school more seriously in hopes of it better preparing me for college.

Yulia

It gave me a great education, it taught me to stand up for myself. I had to grow "thick skin", though it is very helpful in my demanding everyday worklife as an ICU nurse; especially when advocating for my patients, dealing with physicians and families. Also, this program though very expensive, is short, and you can graduate and start working early, instead of waiting for cheaper programs to open a spot for you. Since, it's a second degree program, having an extra degree on your resume is a good leverage in the job market.

Shantel

I have been in college for a year now, and I've found it to be very valuable thus far. I was abandoned as a child by my biological mother; she was, and still may be addicted to drugs. I went from fostere home to foster until the age of 8, when i finally found a permanent home. I went to theraphy and honestly the odds where against me. I was told i was going to be nothing but a failure. But in the 8th grade I was adopted, I went on to graduate highschool with honors. I think college has been valuable because I have found a way to bet the odds, and make something of myself.

Rachel

Besides an education I have gotten a lot out of my college experience so far. I have learned that no one is going to do things for you. If you want something you HAVE to get it yourself. For example, internships look good on a resume, however no one is going to give you one unless you ask for it and work hard to get it. Things are not handed to you like they were when you were younger. An education is a two way street and if you are willing to go down it, there is a professor willing to go down there with you. But if you decide to stray from the path they may not be as willing to continue helping if it is not towards a mutual furthering educational goal. College, though expensive, is an amazing opportunity to meet people and get an education in a field that you are intereted in and would like to spend, potentially, the rest of your life doing.

Mina

Through my college experience I learned how to manage time and realized that Boston has more to offer than eductaion. Because my school is located in the city I'll be able to take advantage of all there is easily. I've learned that I could volunteer at many different places while studying. It's amazing to realize that I could do so much with my life instead of wasting it.

Ashley

I have gotten the experience to be successful in my future job. I will continue to have opportunities to learn more about my field and gain experience in the field through an internship at potential employers. I have definitely been challange in the school work, both in terms of amount and the content, the help me in being successful in the future. There are opportunities to become comfortable with working with people in teams.

Lauren

If I could go back in time and give myself advice it would be, when moving into dorms make friends, be open, and honest. If you need help don't feel stupid to ask an upperclassmen for help. They admire you seeking their opinions and advice. Your resource centers and counceling services are there for you to utilize don't ignore them. The workload is far different from anything you have had before. There isn't much homework maybe one or two assignments per week. Instead of homework you MUST spend that time studying in any way. Reading over notes the day you get them in class, make flashcards, make studying guides, and get into a study group or a tutoring session. Use the library as a quiet study space. DO NOT spend your money on booze and chinese food. Save it for an apartment. Don't take people up on their offer to party in the dorms. Become friends with your RA and seek their advice often. Wear flip flops in the showers and the bathroom. If you have a problem with your roommates address it don't let it built up. Above all HAVE FUN!

Maureen

If I could tell myself anything about the college process, I would say calm down and make the right choice for you. During high school, there's pressure to do things that will get you into college. And while things, like doing well in classes and participating in extracurriculars are important, be careful that you don't lose yourself in the process. Make time for things you enjoy and make friends along the way. When applying, keep in mind that school isn't everything. It's very important, but in 10 years, no-one will care what you got on the SAT's or how many AP classes you took. Don't worry about what your friends are doing, if they are truly your friends, distance is irrelevant. Don't let anyone talk you into a school where you know you won't be happy. It won't be easy, but in the end it will be worth it. When you walk into your dorm room for the first time and begin to meet people, the entire process becomes a thing of the past, and all you are looking forward to is a new adventure.

Brittany

Space out your schedule so that you have time to absorb the information from your classes. Use time at the school to get class work finished. Find better time management habits, all classes have different expectations, rules and deadlines.

Loo

Think thoroughly before choosing your college. Dig deep by researching each school, each major, costs, etc. Get in touch with all your peers and important persons regardless of where you go to college. Do not procrastinate, study hard, and save well!

Carol

The lessons I collected during my freshman year of college I wish to pass unto future bound college students. Before making a final decision regarding colleges, students must ask themselves what the college offers them rather than what they offer the college. Important things to include but not limited to are, the size, the location (city or suburb), and what if any extracurricular activities are important. The college should fit like a glove according to their personality and their chosen major. The student shouldn't have to alter their lifestyle according to the school instead, it should feel like a second home embracing a smooth transition. To get the full college experience, students need to excel both socially and academically but how? Socially, students must GET INVOLVED! Freshman year is the ideal year to start because everyone is open to make friends! Some advice academically, study for tests! This seems simple enough but it's much more difficult when you are living with close friends. One way to merge the two is gathering a study group which will benefit both aspects. After getting settled in, students must be able to manage their time, keeping a balance of school and friends.

Lily

College is a major milestone in one's life. Therefore, prospective students and their parents must research their choices carefully before making their final choice. The college of their choice will shape the next few years of their lives and that cannot be changed. Finding the right college involves researching facts as well as opinions from students that are currently enrolled there. A major part of finding the right college would be the major the student is looking for. I chose a major that was not offered in many colleges. Therefore, I did not have many options when coming to choose a college. Students can still make the best of their years at college by having a positive outlook even during the toughest times. I encourage parents to realize that attending college is not easy and can be very difficult and to talk to their children about it. The best advice would be to work hard because it is well worth it in the end!

Connie

My advices for you and your parents are you should always forcus on the things you are looking for. For example, financial matters, environment, diversity, and of course your major. You have consider the amount each college give you to attend and what you can afford. If you live close to the campus, then do not consider living on campus because that is a waste of money. You must learn to study and at the same time have fun. Join some activities at college and make new friends that could last for a life time.

Mallory

Go to state school, private school is not worth the debt.

Jennifer

I would strongly advise you to visit every school you want to go to and make sure you talk to students and falculty about the school. Also, look up passing rates of students in schools to make sure you are going to a school that will give you a beneficial education. When you go to college make the best of it. Be yourself and join alot of activities so when those stressful tests come along you will have support from friends and a place to go just to relax and cool off some steam.

Scott

Look for a place that offers the program you want first, then visit and see how the school feels. You need to be comfortable on the campus, but if they can't teach you what you want to learn, there's really no point.

edison

PLease choose Majors in which you have genuine interest.

Theresa

There are a lot of advantages to a small school. I've attended two. However, if given the choice I wish I had gone to a large state school. I would not have had to transfer when I decided to switch majors and I'm now in a lot of debt that I would have been able to avoid if I had gone to a state school. I also would have gotten to experience a lot more social networking and things as simpe as sporting events.

Amy

Safety on and off-campus, extracurricular activities such as sports, big or small school, professors - do they have a good quality teaching skills?

Kunthy

My advice is to definitely visit the college campus before making your decision. Also make sure that there's no dificulty communicating with the administrators. I believe that diversity is very important because it will enhance the student's experience, academically and socially. Choose a college that suits your character and your needs, that will make you comfortable and can provide you with the most optimal help and care.

Laura

Parents, don't push students into a school that they do NOT want to go to. And students, don't listen to your parents, they are YOUr college loans so it should be YOUR decision. Do what feels right for you!

esther

Definately go on college visits!!! i didn't do this at all and is why i am going to transfer out. and while you're visiting the school, ask lots of questions about it that would help you decide whether you like it or not, e.g. social life on campus, dorm situation, what dining hall food is like, what kids do on the weekends, etc. things that help you get a feel for the school. also, if there is an overnight option where you can sleep in the dorms, go for it! make a list of qualities you want in a school and choose schools that have what you want. when you get to college, try to be involved because that'a a good way to get to know people. it will be hard to adjust at first, but try to be involved in your school and your new life so you have a better time adjusting. also, take full of advantage of all the resources you have on your campus. importantly, balance your social and study life! if worse comes to worse and there's nothing you can do to like your school, there's always transferring.

Karli

I would encourage all students to look into, at the very least, four colleges that have the program they are interested in. Every college is different, and what might be a good college for one student may not be the best choice for another student. But if students take the time to visit and contact schools before choosing one, they may end up prefering a college that was not originally their top choice. I would also advise students to become very active in their course-work and community right away; this will help an individual develop a good sense of their environment as well as good study habits earlier on. A great way to meet new people is to join extra-curricular activities and break out of your "shell". However, students should also be able to put aside enough time to succeed in their studies, especially if they have to maintain a certain GPA or are in a difficult program. Study techniques that were used in high school may not work in college, so it's always best to try different strategies until you find one that is comfortable and works for you.

alycia

Students definitley need to research the school, the setting, and the focus. Once there they need to give it a fair chance and stick it out. It's normal to feel out of place for a while. Parents need to consider costs, it definitley makes a difference. Another aspect to consider is distance from home, are you close enough that you can get picked up every weekend if needed, or are you okay with being a plane ride away? Students need to consider which school is best focused on what they want for their future. Remember, it's not all about partying. There will be parties at every school but they get old and there are much more important things. Never choose a school solely for that purpose.

jackie

Visit the schools more than once and really pay attention to what life will be like outside of classes because that is where most of your time is spent. look into the location as well because where you are plays a big role in your happiness, social life, job and travel.

Andrew

In order to find the right college for you, I believe it is important to understand what kind of community the school is in and around the school. Every student feels comfortable in a different environment and luckily, every campus is different as well. It is a good idea to know the size of community and what kinds of activities are done in the area. No matter what your academic situation is, your community can directly affect it in both negative and positive ways. In your community there should be attributes which can stimulate learning. While getting to know the community around the college you should consider a good balance of resources which can be used in academic and non-academic activities. While it is important to focus on academics, it is equally important to focus on what you will do when you don't have school work to do, and sometimes, what you will do instead of school work.

Vicki

Finding the perfect college is nearly impossible, however I truly believe that college is what you make of the experience. Anyone can achieve anything they set their mind to. With an optimistic and motivated attitude, any school can prove to an amazing place where one is able to gain an education of a lifetime. College is one of the best times of one's life because it is full of new experiences and it can undoubtedly be life changing.

Katelyn

Finding the right school is a very hard decision. Although there are a lot of great schools out there, not every school is ggreat for every individual person. The first thing to look for in a school is the course offerings and academics. Why waste your time at a school that does not offer a program that you are interested in? After you have done that, location is the next thing. You have to decide how far away from home you want to live. Keep in mind how often you want to come home, travel expenses, etc. Next, find an appropriate campus size. Some people perfer a really big campus with thousands of students while others need a small, quiet atmosphere. Lastly, you should examine the school's extra curricular activities and campus life to ensure you will have some fun. Afterall, part of the college experience is socializing with others from all different walks of life and expanding your horizon.

Nicole

Its a great health science school but its tough, you have to be willing to make the commitment.

Marie

Make sure that you find out about the social part of the school and the activities offered and not just focus on the academic parts.